Cole Green Way facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cole Green Way |
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| Length | 6 mi (9.7 km) |
| Location | Hertfordshire, England |
| Trailheads | Welwyn Garden City 51°47′27″N 0°10′05″W / 51.7908°N 0.1681°W Hertford 51°47′32″N 0°05′10″W / 51.7921°N 0.0861°W |
| Use | Hiking, Running, Cycling, Horseriding |
The Cole Green Way is a special path in Hertfordshire, England. It's a "rail trail," which means it used to be a railway line where trains ran! Now, it's a super cool path for walking, cycling, and even horse riding. This path stretches for over six miles (about 10 kilometers) from the edge of Welwyn Garden City all the way to Hertford. It's also part of a bigger network called National Cycle Network Route 61 and the Lea Valley Walk.
Contents
Discovering the Cole Green Way's Past
Imagine, this path used to be a busy train track! The railway line first opened on March 1, 1858. Trains carried passengers along this route until June 18, 1951. It was never the busiest line, and fewer people used it after a faster train route to Hertford North railway station opened from London King's Cross.
From Railway to Recreation Path
The railway line completely closed to all traffic on August 1, 1962. Soon after, the train tracks were removed. But the story didn't end there! The old track area was turned into a public footpath. The local council later improved it, adding things like a car park where the old Cole Green railway station used to be.
Because the path is mostly flat, it's perfect for everyone. Walkers, horse riders, and cyclists all love to use it. If you look closely near the car park and picnic area, you might even spot the old train buffers! These are like the end stops for railway cars.
Nature and Art Along the Way
The woodland near the car park and picnic area is quite interesting. You can find several cool sculptures carved right into standing tree trunks. It's like an outdoor art gallery! The Cole Green Way is also an important part of Route 61 of the National Cycle Network, helping people cycle safely across the country.
Exploring the Cole Green Way Route
The Cole Green Way starts on the eastern side of Welwyn Garden City, near Cole Green Lane. As you head east, you'll pass by the household recycling centre and go under the A414 road. This underpass leads you to where the old Cole Green railway station once stood.
Bridges and Countryside Views
Along the way, you'll cross over a few bridges. There's one at Station Road near Cole Green and another at Chapel Lane, close to Letty Green. One old bridge was filled in, so you'll need to cross a country lane for a short bit before rejoining the path. Further on, at Mary's Lane, there's another bridge.
Finishing Point in Hertford
Just past Mary's Lane, you'll find what used to be Hertingfordbury railway station, which is now a private home. The trail then finishes near the Hertford Football Club and a large viaduct (a type of bridge) south of Hertford North railway station. It's a great way to explore the countryside!
Other Fun Rail Trails Nearby
The Cole Green Way isn't the only rail trail in the Welwyn Hatfield area. There are two other cool paths you can explore:
- The Alban Way: This trail runs from Hatfield to St. Albans.
- The Ayot Greenway: This path connects Welwyn Garden City to Wheathampstead.
Images for kids
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The Cole Green Way path, perfect for walking and cycling.
