For some great ideas of where you can go on short strolls around St Albans, Wheathampstead and Harpenden read on to see our care team's recommendations.
Living well is so important to us at Home Instead St Albans and companionship visits can be a great way of doing this as you get older; helping you to stay independent and having the confidence to get out there.
There are so many wonderful places in our local area. We have shared just a small selection of our Care Professionals and client’s favourites. Our professional home care services don’t just mean that we come to our client’s homes to support them. Our Care Professionals often accompany clients on visits out, empowering those we support to remain active in their communities and explore what’s on their doorsteps.
You may have your favourite spot already but trying out new routes means you might see something new. These locations are great for spotting wildlife, sitting in the sunshine, and walking as little or as far as you feel whilst you get some fresh air.
Wheathampstead has a village centre heritage trail, with 21 historical properties all within a short distance of each other. A few of the highlights are the Crinkle-Crankle walls which are set beside a lovely community garden. With a bakery just around the corner it is a lovely spot to spend some time.
The river Lea runs through the village and there is a perfectly placed bench to take a seat by the bridge in the village centre.
You can walk as much or as little as you want on this village centre stroll. You can see the locations and download a map on the Wheathampstead Heritage website. http://www.wheathampsteadheritage.org.uk/village-centre-trail.asp
If you want to walk a little further or get out of the village the river park has a lovely path that passes along the riverside with lots of benches along the way. The East lane free car park is close by.
St Albans has so many parks dotted about the city. Verulamium Park is one of the best-known locations and is always a popular choice. The view of the Abbey, the Roman ruins and the lake with birdlife in abundance means there is always lots to see. There are many benches to take a break, a café and toilet facilities.
The Enjoy St Albans website has full information and a downloadable map
https://www.enjoystalbans.com/listing/verulamium-park/
St Mary’s Communal Garden Project known as Peppercorn Place in the Marshalswick area is a pretty little spot tucked away by the church. Here you can take a moment for personal reflection or meet up with friends.
There is a wildlife friendly area, a sensory garden and veg patch. These along with seating make it an ideal place for a moment’s peace.
St Mary’s church is where the weekly memory café takes place, giving those who visit the café and ideal time to stop by at the gardens.
St Mary’s Church website has more information about Peppercorn Place https://www.marshalswick.org.uk/peppercornplace.htm
Batford springs is a nature reserve in Harpenden, it has shallow streams, weirs, and an abundance of wildlife. There has recently been the new addition of a board walk through the trees and information boards around the park tell you what you can see.
There is a resident kingfisher if you are lucky enough to see it.
It is a very popular location for picnics with benches and picnic tables.
There are also a few pubs nearby for refreshments and facilities.
The Harpenden council website has more information about the different areas of the nature reserve as well as a map https://www.harpenden.gov.uk/batford-springs
Whether it’s to get your heart rate up or just sit and watch the world go by, there’s something to suit everyone at this Woodland trust site.
Located just on the edge of Sandridge, there is parking on and benches within easy reach. It is always a lovely spot to visit and if you like dogs you are bound to see at least a few enjoying themselves.
Full access information as well as routes around the Forest can be found on the Woodland Trust website https://heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk/
Getting out into the fresh air and staying active in your local area is a great way to stay engaged and active. We believe that age isn’t a barrier to adventure. We’ve also had a huge amount of success in helping older people start something new and are always trying to ensure they can continue the hobbies they have always enjoyed, walking or getting outdoors being one of these activities.
Whatever it is that you enjoy doing, we make sure we find the right Care Professional to support our clients and become their chosen companion. If there’s something new you’d like to start, or an old passion you’d like to revisit, we can match you to the right person to help you achieve this.
If you want to find out about the benefits of home care in St Albans, Harpenden, Radlett and the surrounding villages, please click on the link below or call us on 01727 895941.