Description
Book SynopsisGuidebook to the Lea Valley Walk, a 53-mile long-distance path from Luton to the Thames. It follows the River Lea from its source near Leagrave to East India Dock opposite Greenwich, with an alternative finish at Limehouse and an optional tour of the Olympic Park. On the way it passes through a blend of quiet countryside, nature reserves and urban landscapes. The Lea Valley Walk offers level, waymarked walking for all abilities. The complete trek is presented in nine stages, accompanied by clear OS mapping, with suggestions for three, four, five and six day itineraries. For those looking for an easy-to-access traffic-free day or half-day walk, the route is divided into sections with convenient railway stations close to each end. Tracing the river as it passes through Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire towards the bustle of London, this fine and varied walk takes in historical towns and villages, stately homes and castles, including Waltham Abbey and Hertford Castle, Luton Hoo, Brocket Park and Hatfield. Along with suggestions for refreshment stops and accommodation, the guidebook is packed with fascinating snippets of information about wildlife, landscape, history and industrial heritage, making it an ideal companion to exploring the river and its surroundings.
Table of ContentsMap key Overview map Introduction Lea Valley Walk History of the valley Heritage Up and down the valley London's greenhouse Wildlife Backpacking the Walk Day walking An almost flat walk Maps Using this guide The Lea Valley Walk Section 1 Leagrave to Luton Airport Parkway Section 2 Luton Airport Parkway to Harpenden Section 3 Harpenden to Hatfield Section 4 Hatfield to Hertford Section 5 Hertford to Broxbourne Section 6 Broxbourne to Enfield Island Section 7 Enfield Island to Tottenham Lock Section 8 Tottenham Lock to Three Mills Section 9 Three Mills to East India Dock Section 9A Three Mills to Limehouse Basin The Olympic Park Day Walk Tour of the Olympic Park Appendix A Route summary table Appendix B Itinerary planner Appendix C Further information
