Walking hints
What to wear and take
For gentle strolls a pair of trainers or comfortable shoes will be fine. If you would like to go on longer walks or to more rugged areas you may like to consider boots specially for walking. Make sure you have enough clothes to keep you warm and dry. Some people find a small rucksack handy for carrying food, drinks, and so on, as it distributes the weight and keeps your arms free.
Weather
Weather suitable for walking is a matter of choice - providing you're prepared. It is a good idea to check the forecast before leaving, in case you might need an extra layer of clothing, waterproofs, or suntan lotion. You should remember that strong winds, or rain which makes for muddy paths and soggy maps, may slow you down.
Company
If you are going to an area you don't know well why not go with friends or family for company? If you do decide to walk alone tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.
Planning
Plan your route before you go. Think about what you would like to see and how long you would like to be out. Find a route to walk and using the scales on the map work out how long it will take. As a rough guide walking speed is about 4 km (2½ miles) an hour for someone of average fitness, but remember hills slow you down.
Transport
Will you set off from home on foot, or will you need to use a cycle, public transport or a car? Will the walk finish back where you started (a 'circular walk'), or do you plan to finish elsewhere and use public transport to get back? Public transport information for Hertfordshire can be found on HertsDirect.
Finding your way
Walking in south eastern England it is very unlikely that you will get seriously lost. If you do get confused about where you are, the primary rule is . . .DO NOT PANIC. Try to remember the last time you were certain of your location, and think about how far you have walked since then. This will give you an idea of which part of the map you are in. Have a slow look at your surroundings. You may be able to see a church spire or electricity pylons, or perhaps you'll be able to hear a road which you can then find on the map.
Before you venture out to try all this, spend some time getting to know your map using the hints and tips on these web pages. Try short simple walks to get used to using it - maybe practicing in an area you know already. You could also try using a CMS walk leaflet with your O.S. map, finding the footpaths and other features described.
