The countryside has something for everyone. You will discover a county of quiet villages and lanes, away from the hustle and bustle of main roads. By foot, bicycle or horseback, your journey will take you through farms, woods, wide-open fields and hedgerow lined lanes. The many interesting walks include the 11 mile Ver Colne Valley walk which links St. Albans and Watford. Ayot Greenway, the Nicky Line and Cole Green Way follow disused railway tracks and are ideal for walkers, horse riders and cyclists. For golfers there are a number of excellent courses, such as those at St. Albans, Welwyn Garden City and Stevenage. Stanborough Park at Welwyn Garden City incorporates a nature reserve and facilities for windsurfing, canoeing and angling. Hertfordshire also has excellent sports and recreation facilities with modern leisure complexes in most large towns. The county has two major football clubs at Watford and Stevenage and Saracens Rugby Club, also at Watford. The county’s towns and villages offer a varied programme of entertainment throughout the year. The Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage and the Watford Palace Theatre both stage national touring productions featuring celebrity artists and top directors. On the doorstep of London, Hertfordshire has a vibrant nightlife. Alongside the theatres and entertainment venues, there are a number of lively bars and night-clubs offering everything from jazz to stand-up comedy. The theatres of London’s internationally renowned West End are within easy travelling distance and host an array of world-class shows and musicals. Hertfordshire also offers a wide range of shopping facilities combining modern malls, with traditional markets, antique centres and smaller speciality shops. London is within easy reach by rail or road offering a shopping experience to rival anywhere in the world. When it comes to eating out Hertfordshire has something to please all tastes. From a full five course meal, a light lunch or just a drink with friends, a host of attractive restaurants, lively wine bars and traditional pubs will be sure to cater for all needs.
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