Northaw Great Wood

Northaw Great Wood covers 178 hectares of ancient woodland between Potters Bar and Cuffley in Hertfordshire, land that has been continuously wooded since the last Ice Age. The canopy is a rich mix of oak, hornbeam and wild service trees, creating the layered structure that ancient woodland is known for, with holly, bramble and ferns filling the understorey. Small ponds punctuate the forest floor, and the network of paths threads through terrain that shifts between dense, enclosed woodland and more open rides. Bluebells carpet whole sections in spring and the autumn colour from the hornbeam is exceptional. At 4.8 to 8km depending on route choice, with just 58 metres of climbing, the walking is gentle throughout.

This is a thoroughly satisfying dog friendly walk for dogs that love proper ancient woodland. Off-lead potential is moderate, with good stretches on the quieter paths away from the main entrances. The forest floor is dense with scent from leaf litter, fungi, bramble and damp earth, and the ponds provide water access for paddling and drinking. Livestock risk is negligible. The wood is large enough to feel genuinely secluded despite its proximity to the M25, and quiet corners are always available even at busy times. The paths can be muddy after rain, particularly through the lower sections near the ponds. Parking is available at the Northaw Great Wood car park off Coopers Lane. A reliable all-season woodland walk that rewards repeated visits.