Oases of calm

It’s been a stressful few months and, now with lockdown eased, we could all do with finding a place to relax. Here are 12 of the best spots in Herts to practise it safely

- Holly Louise Eells

We’ve been taking walks locally for weeks to avoid unnecessary travel but finally we can head further afield for our relaxation and exercise as lockdown restrictions are eased. Here are some of the best places to find calm, beauty and a balm to our mental health right here in the county. There are large expanses of woods, parks and wetlands to enjoy safely. Just remember the latest government advice.

Balls Wood, Hertford Heath

It’s increasingly well known that time spent outside and in nature helps relieve stress and anxiety by reducing levels of the hormone cortisol in the brain. To do just that, head to Balls Wood near Hertford. It’s a nearly 60-hectare nature reserve waiting to be explored, so shouldn’t pose problems for social distancing. The woodland is a tapestry of varied species including a number of ancient woodland ones such as herb-paris, common spotted orchid and old wild service trees. Look out for the wide and sunny rides which abound with beautiful butterflies, birds and wildflowers in summer.

Heartwood Forest, Sandridge

Being active has a whole range of benefits when it comes to mental wellbeing. For starters, it improves self-esteem, mood and sleep quality while reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Heartwood Forest, managed by Woodland Trust volunteers, and embrace its abundance of space – 347 hectares to be exact. The site near St Albans is the largest continuous new native forest in the UK and boasts some fantastic walks to help you get back to nature and lost in the moment. Discover the woodland (ancient and new), wildflower meadows and a community orchard.

Rye Meads Nature Reserve, Hoddesdon