Capability Brown walk at Hatfield Forest
This circular trail explores the Georgian highlights of Hatfield Forest and the influences of the renowned landscape architect Capability Brown had on it. The forest was acquired in 1729 by the Houblon family. They immediately set about turning the medieval forest into their own 'pleasure ground', easily reachable from their main residence at nearby Hallingbury Place. Their first move was to create the lake and Shell House. Then, in 1757, Brown provided a plan for the Houblon's forest and lake, which was partially implemented.
A summer walk
This is a route best enjoyed from April to October. Parts of the trail can be very muddy during the winter months.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
Shell House car park, Hatfield Forest, Bishop's Stortford, CM22 6NH. Grid ref: TL539197
Step 1
From the car park head towards the lake so you're stood in front of the café. Now, turn right, keeping the lake on your left.
Step 2
Follow the path around to the left and across the dam along the edge of the lake towards the woods.
Step 3
Head into the wooded area along the boardwalk. After about 55yd (50m) take the left-hand path towards the jetty and then turn right to head along a trail through the trees a little way in from the lakeside. The trail emerges into a small open space with the clump of Scots pines on the right. Keep walking until you reach the road.
Step 4
Cross the road at the bridge and follow the grass track across the hill, rising gently to the right and passing between two small clumps of trees. Keep heading south-west, past a water trough, and then follow an unmade road, passing a plantation of mature horse chestnut trees on your left. Then turn left into Cedar Ride and continue towards the lone cedar dominating the skyline at the end.
Step 5
Continue towards the cedar and then walk across the grassy area to the estate road. Turn right and head along the road towards the car park and then diagonally across to a small metal gate on the far side.
Step 6
Go through the metal gate and follow the path through the trees, emerging by a wooden bench with the Decoy Lake to your left. Follow the path back into the trees, across a trickle of water, and then take a left at the fork.
Step 7
The path now heads towards the main lake, passing by two yew trees. On reaching the main lakeside area, walk back the car park and the end of the trail.
End point
Shell House car park, Hatfield Forest, Bishop's Stortford, CM22 6NH. Grid ref: TL539197
Trail map
More near here
Hatfield Forest walk
An easy 1.7-mile circular walk through the ancient woodlands at Hatfield Forest, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserve.
Hatfield Forest buttercup walk
In May and June, the plains at Hatfield Forest are turned into a sea of gold by over 300 million buttercups. It's the perfect time to enjoy this 3.4-mile walk.
Hatfield Forest tree walk
Discover a 1000-year-old maple tree, a mighty cedar, and Capability Brown's parkland plan on this gentle circular stroll around the historic Hatfield Forest, suitable for the whole family.
Hatfield Forest and Flitch Way walk
Enjoy the splendour of a medieval hunting forest, passing through ancient trees on the Hatfield Forest and Flitch Way walk.
Get in touch
Bush End Road, Takeley, Bishop's Stortford, Essex, CM22 6NE
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We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
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