If you are running out of ideas for safe, distanced activities to enjoy nearby, Penny Baxter from the Ramblers has been in touch with details of some of their favourite local walks.
All four walks start at the Byng Road Open Space where you can park for no charge. The first two walks: to South Mimms and Ridge and to South Mimms and Bentley Heath take in Wash Lane, the ancient droving route near the services. You can read more about it here (but note that the underpass can get flooded by the Mimms Brook).
The third walk encircles Chipping Barnet and includes a stretch of the Dollis Valley Greenwalk and King George’s Fields. The walk is quite a surprise. Glancing at the map you would think you are looking at houses most of the way, but you rarely see them. Instead, it feels mainly rural, but with some impressive views of London. Take care at the turn at the southwest corner: look for the footbridge over the brook. Walk across the field to Mays Lane, cross and just to the right is the entry to Whitings Wood.
The fourth walk skirts around Arkley and you could have a detour to Lewis of London at Fold Farm on Galley Lane for a quick ice cream. The first walk also takes you conveniently close by.
Although Barnet is close to the M25 and A1, this has been, in some ways, to the advantage of walkers. The huge South Mimms roundabout is surrounded by countryside, and you can get a take-away drink, sandwiches and sit in a lovely area just by the motorway service station.
