Hertfordshire & Middlesex Branch
Saving butterflies, moths and our environment
The 2026 programme of walks is currently being prepared and events will be added when confirmed.
Whether a member of Butterfly Conservation or not, you are welcome to join us at any of our free butterfly walks or moth events.
This year most events will require advance booking through an online booking provider such as Eventbrite, although some walk leaders are still happy to have no advance booking.
BUTTERFLY WALKS ARE FOR EVERYONE! You most emphatically do NOT have to be an expert to come on a butterfly walk. Butterfly walks can be enjoyed by anyone with any level of knowledge (or none). Photographers, children (with adult supervision), first-time participants, you are ALL welcome. Butterfly Conservation does not ask for any donation or payment to attend their walks; however some of the walks included in this programme when organised by another organisations may request a donation and/or a fee.
Neighbouring branches also have a wide-ranging programme of walks; some are quite close to our branch borders. The full list of Butterfly Conservation events can be viewed on the national website - here
A printable copy of the 2026 walks programme in pdf format is available here (updated 18 May 2026)
Last updated 18 May 2026
| Date: | Saturday 30 MAY |
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| Event Title: | Guided late spring butterfly walk at Stafford Road Open Space at the invitation of the Ruislip & District & Hillingdon Natural History Societies |
| Location: | Stafford Road Open Space in the London Borough of Hillingdon |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Start Point on Yeading Brook footpath TQ0960285505. [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | Start 10:30 on Stafford Road Open Space at the sign post on the Yeading Brook footpath TQ0960285505. Finish at this location 13:00. For those arriving by train, bus, or parking in the stations small car park you may meet the leader earlier at the entrance to Ruislip Gardens Underground Station (Central Line) DEPARTING at 10:15 for the 600m walk along the Yeading Brook to the event start point where we will meet those that have made their own way there. |
| What3words: | Stafford Road Open Space Meeting point - https://w3w.co/daring.sticks.eaten Google GPS co-ordinates 51°33'28.3"N 0°25'13.2"W |
| Transport & directions: | On Central Line, also E7 bus (every 20 minutes) from Ruislip (Metropolitan & Piccadilly) to Ealing Broadway (District and National rail). Very limited pay and display parking at station, some off-street parking plus car parks at Sidmouth Drive (HA4 ODA) and Ruislip Gardens shops at New Pond Parade, West End Road (HA4 6LR). |
| Information | Join Dick Middleton for bank holiday weekend walk around Stafford Road Open Space looking for late spring butterflies. |
| Contact details | Dick Middleton mobile no: 07597 369067 or email Dick Middleton |
| Booking details: | No booking required |
| Date: | Saturday 30 MAY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Heartwood Forest - looking for the rare Small Blue butterfly ~ organised by the Woodland Trust. This is a very popular walk and unfortunately places will be limited |
| Location: | Heartwood Forest |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Heartwood Forest, carpark off the B651, Sandridge AL4 9DQ |
| Time/meeting place: | 11:00 - 13:00 |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/cheat.post.half |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station St Albans City (Thameslink from London St Pancras Intl.) approx. 2.45 miles. There are two bus services which stop at Sandridge, one from Hitchin to Potters Bar (via St Albans) and one from Hemel Hempstead to Hatfield via Harpenden. Directions from the south. Head north from St Albans along the B651 towards Wheathampstead. Pass through the village of Sandridge along the main road and turn left at the brown road sign for Heartwood Forest (TL172110). Park in the main car park, situated off the B651, (Postcode AL4 9DQ). |
| Information | Guided walk in Heartwood Forest with local butterfly experts Andrew Steele and Malcolm Hull. We will look for a range of species including the rare Small Blue. |
| Contact details | Andrew Steele & Malcolm Hull (07768 154324) or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 8 to Sunday 14 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Great Big Green Week * NEW * |
| Information: | The 2026 Great Big Green Week (GBGW) will be taking place throughout our branch area between Saturday 6th JUNE and Sunday 14th JUNE |
| Location of branch events on the 8th JUNE: | St. Marys Church, Watford for more information Fletcher's Lea Hall, next to Ware Priory 11:00 to 16:00 |
| Details | More information can be found here |
| Date: | Monday 22 - Sunday 28 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Insect Week 2026 |
| Information | Royal Entomological Society Insect Week runs from Monday 22 JUNE to Sunday 28 JUNE 2026. Events are organised across our branch area |
| Details | Full details and list of events are available here |
| Date: | Sunday 21 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly walk for summer butterflies and day-flying moths and other grassland species - with the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Trust - part of the Discover Letchworth Festival Programme of events |
| Location: | Fields off Hillbrow, Letchworth |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL207319 [Landranger Map 166] or postcode SG6 3RF |
| Time/meeting place: | 15:00 meeting at the top of the field next to the playground which is down a small entrance road off Hillbrow (Between house numbers 55 and 57) in Letchworth. This entry road is signposted for the Letchworth Garden City Greenway and leads past some garages and a playground through an accessible gate. Approx. 1 1/2 hours walk |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/cage.torn.maps |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station: Letchworth Garden City station (Thameslink from London King's Cross. Hillbrow can be accessed from the town centre down Station Way, and High Avenue and Burnell Rise. There is no car park and these are narrow suburban roads so you may have to park a little way away. The nearest bus is 53 operated by Landmark Coaches. This goes from Letchworth Station to Grange Estate every hour, the nearest stop is West Road a 0.3 mile walk from the entrance to the site. |
| Information | Join Andrew Wood for a guided walk around this excellent butterfly and day-flying moth site. Generally easy walking but wear reasonable footwear as there may be some mud and grassland may be damp. No dogs allowed on this walk. |
| Contact & booking details | https://www.discoverletchworth.co.uk/festival/ |
| Date: | Tuesday 23 JUNE 2026 *IMPORTANT THIS DATE HAS CHANGED* |
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| Event Title: | Guided Butterfly Walk at Alexandra Park North London N22 (LB of Haringey), for meadow species including Marbled White, and with the potential to see Purple Hairstreak with the Friends of Alexandra Park |
| Location: | Alexandra Park, London N22 |
| Time/meeting place: | 13:30 at Bedford Road entrance to the park, next to the layby. This is next to one of the exits to Alexandra Palace Railway station. On exiting the train station ticket hall you need to turn left and immediately left to cross a long footbridge to the other side of the tracks. On leaving the footbridge turn left and after a minute you will see a layby on the left. We will meet at the far end of the layby near the entrance to the park, by some wooden gates. Walk to finish at approximately 15:00 |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/monks.table.slick |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is nearest station is Alexandra Park Overground station. Great Northern trains from Moorgate/Finsbury Park or from various stations in Hertfordshire such as Hertford North, Welwyn, Stevange. Tube: nearest tube Wood Green (Piccadilly Line) and either walk or take bus W3 or 184 to Alexandra Palace Station. Parking: There is a cpz near the walk start with hours 12-2. If you are driving you are best to park on the other side of the park which has no restrictions and walk through the park to get to the walk start (allow 10-12 minutes walking past the boating lake heading straight down the hill past Go Ape continue to a Alexandra Palace Way, turn left down the hill to the bottom and meeting point) Suggested roads for parking The Avenue, Vallance Road, Dukes Avenue, Lansdowne Road N10. There is paid parking in the East Court car park near the television mast and ice rink which is a 5 minute walk from the meeting point. https://www.alexandrapalace.com/visitor-information/car-parking/ |
| Information | Terrain is uneven in places especially in the anthill meadow and other meadow areas so sturdy footwear is advisable. There will also be a small amount of uphill walking. |
| Contact details | Dee Cullen ~ 07764 902948 or email: deecullen22@gmail.com | Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Thursday 25 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly walk at Chorleywood Common for early summer grassland species and day-flying moths including hopefully the very rare Forester moth |
| Location: | Chorleywood Common, Chorleywood |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nearest postcode WD3 5FL. TQ032966 [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 - 13:00 approx. Meet in the main carpark on the north side of the Common along the Rickmansworth Road (just after the Cricket Club). Approx. 2 ½ hour walk |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/offers.gear.sticks |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is Chorleywood (Metropolitan Line). Please consult a map for walking directions to the meeting point which is a 20 minute brisk walk uphill! |
| Information | Generally easy walking but wear reasonable footwear as there may be some mud and grassland may be damp. No dogs allowed on this walk. |
| Contact details | Philip Gibbs ~ 07759 958804 or email: philip.gibbs2@gmail.com |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 27 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk and examining the contents of the previous night's moth trap at the invitation of Holland Park Ecology Centre lead by Andrew Wood |
| Location: | Holland Park (The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | 10:00 - 11:30 at Holland Park Ecology Centre. At the western side of Holland Park by the adventure playground and next to the Abbotsbury Road Car Park. Entrance to the park is via Ilchester Place Gate, Abbotsbury Road Car Park, the Duchess of Bedford Gate or from Holland Walk and Holland Park Avenue. |
| Time: | Bus routes that serve Holland Park are 9, 23, 27, 28, 49, 328 and C1 (Kensington side) and 31, 94, 148, 228 (Holland Park Station side). London Underground stations: Holland Park (Central line) and Kensington High Street (Circle and District). Overground station: Kensington (Olympia) |
| Transport: | Nearest station is King's Cross |
| Information: | We strongly advise using public transport if possible - this is a free event but booking is essential |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required via this link |
| Date: | Saturday 27 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided walk at Heartwood Forest to look for summer butterflies including Purple Emperor ~ organised by the Woodland Trust. |
| Location: | Heartwood Forest |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Heartwood Forest, carpark off the B651, Sandridge AL4 9DQ |
| Time/meeting place: | 11:00 to 14:00 |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/cheat.post.half |
| Transport: | Nearest station St Albans City (Thameslink from London St Pancras Intl.) approx. 2.45 miles. There are two bus services which stop at Sandridge, one from Hitchin to Potters Bar (via St Albans) and one from Hemel Hempstead to Hatfield via Harpenden. |
| Directions: | Directions from the south. Head north from St Albans along the B651 towards Wheathampstead. Pass through the village of Sandridge along the main road and turn left at the brown road sign for Heartwood Forest (TL172110). Park in the main car park, situated off the B651, (Postcode AL4 9DQ). |
| Information: | Guided walk in Heartwood Forest with our local butterfly experts Andrew Steele and Malcolm Hull. We will look for a range of woodland & grassland species including the elusive Purple Emperor. Voluntary donation of £5 payable to the Woodland Trust |
| Contact details: | Malcolm Hull ~ 07768 154324 or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 27 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk to visit Butterfly Conservation's only reserve in the Herts & Middlesex area and see a range of summer butterflies and look at the moths recorded the previous night. |
| Location: | Millhoppers Pasture Reserve. |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Postcode HP23 4PE - SP903142 [Landranger Map 165] (Please note this is the grid reference of the meeting place not the Reserve) |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 at Wilstone Village Hall for a short walk across the fields to the Reserve. Walk to last approx. 2 hours after the moths have been looked at. |
| What3words: | Meeting place https://w3w.co/serenade.busy.guard |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest railway stations: Tring (West Midlands Trains from London Euston) or Wendover (Chiltern Railways from London Marylebone) |
| Information | Suitable for children and an ideal opportunity to develop Butterfly identification skills. |
| Contact details | Email: millhoppers@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk or on the day Chris Ridley ~ 07463 821287 |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Sunday 28 JUNE 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly Walk for early summer butterflies with the Friends of Cassiobury Park and Watford Borough Council. |
| Location: | Whippendell Woods |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Cassiobury Park, Gade Avenue, Watford WD18 7LG. TQ091973 [Landranger Map 166] |
| Time/meeting place: | 14:00 - 16:00 meet just into the park from the entrance opposite Langley Way, WD18 3BD |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/match.case.bliss |
| Transport & directions: | Cassiobury Park is a 2 minute walk from the Watford Metropolitan line station. Exit the station onto Cassiobury Park Avenue and turn right, after about 150 metres turn left onto Shepherds Road - the park is straight ahead of you. Alternatively Watford Junction (1.3 miles) and Watford High Street (2.1 miles) are the two closest Overground stations. There is one official car park for Cassiobury Park at the end of Gade Avenue near the bottom of Cassiobury Park Avenue (WD18 7LG is the nearest postcode). It should be noted that the car park does get very busy if the weather is good and there is a small charge these days. So best to arrive early to avoid parking problems. There is street parking at weekends along the roads off Langley Way, such as Parkside Drive. |
| Information: | There are toilets at the ‘Hub’ although the café in the park can get quite busy therefore it is suggested you bring your own refreshments. |
| Contact details: | Peter Fewell ~ 07814 282356 or email: p.fewell@yahoo.com |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Date at the end of June/early July to be confirmed nearer the time. |
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| Event Title: | Purple Emperor experiment with the Friends of Cassiobury Park and Watford Borough Council |
| Location: | The Lime Walk, Cassiobury Park |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Along the Lime Walk at Cassiobury Park - TQ0869297610 [Landranger Map 166] |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:00 onwards along the Lime Walk - you'll see the table! |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/bank.indeed.rainy |
| Transport & directions: | Cassiobury Park is a 2 minute walk from the Watford Metropolitan line station. Exit the station onto Cassiobury Park Avenue and turn right, after about 150 metres turn left onto Shepherds Road - the park is straight ahead of you. Alternatively Watford Junction (1.3 miles) and Watford High Street (2.1 miles) are the two closest Overground stations. There is one official car park for Cassiobury Park at the end of Gade Avenue near the bottom of Cassiobury Park Avenue (WD18 7LG is the nearest postcode). It should be noted that the car park does get very busy if the weather is good and there is a small charge these days. So best to arrive early to avoid parking problems. There is street parking at weekends along the roads off Langley Way, such as Parkside Drive. |
| Information: | The experiment conducted is to try and attract a Purple Emperor down from the Lime trees - this might not succeed but we hope to give people the opportunity to learn a little more about Purple Emperors. We will also put on a few other butterfly excursions on during the day. There are toilets at the 'Hub' although the café in the park can get quite busy therefore it is suggested you bring your own refreshments.There are toilets at the ‘Hub’ although the café in the park can get quite busy therefore it is suggested you bring your own refreshments. |
| Contact details: | Peter Fewell ~ 07814 282356 or email: p.fewell@yahoo.com |
| Booking details: | No booking is required |
| Date: | Thursday 2 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | An exploration of Norton Green Common to look for butterflies including Purple Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary and Purple Emperor plus many grassland butterflies such as Marbled White and the Skippers |
| Location: | Norton Green Common near Stevenage |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL229227 [Landranger Map 166] Nearest postcode: SG1 2DS |
| Time: | 10:30 Norton Green. Walk to last approx. 2 ½ hours. |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/belong.undulation.goals |
| Transport: | The nearest station is Stevenage (Thameslink from London King's Cross or Great Northern from Moorgate). From the A1M Junction 7 take the A602. Turn left at the first roundabout onto the A1072. After about a mile, take the left turn signed to Norton Green. Pass under the motorway and follow the road round to the left. The meeting place is half a mile further on in the car park layby in the hamlet of Norton Green. Parking details to be confirmed |
| Information: | Bring binoculars |
| Contact details | Peter Clarke ~ 07749 592619 - texts only please or or email: peter.clarke4@ntlworld.com and Bob Clift ~ 01279 658243 or email: bobclift@ntlworld.com |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 4 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided walk at Bishops Wood to look for summer butterflies including White Admiral and Silver-washed Fritillary. |
| Location: | Bishops Wood Country Park near Harefield - part of NW London Urban Fringe Landscape |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TQ069915 [Landranger Map 176] nearest postcode is UB9 6PZ |
| Time: | 11:00 - 13:00 in the Bishops Wood Country Park Car Park, White Hill, Harefield |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/dwell.family.spots |
| Transport: | There are regular buses along White Hill from Harefield and Northwood. Bishops Wood is a 40 minute walk from Northwood Station on the Metropolitan Line |
| Information: | Bishop's Wood is owned and managed by Three Rivers Council. It supports populations of White Admiral and Silver-washed Fritillary. |
| Contact details | Paul Busby email buzz113@hotmail.co.uk. |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 4 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Survey Section: Hampstead Heath - Leslie Williams at the invitation of the London Natural History Society |
| Location: | Hampstead Heath (London Borough of Camden) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Kenwood Walled Garden, by the old stable block (TQ2729987513). [Landranger Map 156] |
| Time: | 10:30 - 13:00 meet at the entrance to the Kenwood Walled Garden by the old stable block |
| Transport: | It is recommended you use public transport. The nearest station is Hampstead Heath (London Overground) then approx. ½ mile walk. The 210 bus and 310 bus from Archway (or from Golders Green tube) will drop you right there (stop is 'Stormont Road'). |
| Important information: | Noted from LNHS programme: Due to high demand we are asking people to register to attend some of the Hampstead Heath Survey Section walks by simply e-mailing : hampsteadbookings@lnhs.org.uk (with the date and subject of the walk you wish to join in the title of your e-mail) The walk leader is Leslie Williams |
| More information: | https://www.lnhs.org.uk/images/Programmes/LNHS_Programme_Mar-Aug_2026.pdf |
| Date: | Sunday 5 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly Walk looking and identifying summer butterflies at Gillespie Park in partnership with Islington Council and the Friends of Gillespie Park |
| Location: | Gillespie Park (London Borough of Islington) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Islington Ecology Centre, 191 Drayton Park, London N5 1PH |
| Time: | 10:30 to 12:00 meet at the Islington Ecology Centre |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/laws.finds.congratulations |
| Transport: | Nearest underground station is Arsenal (Piccadilly Line) alternatively Finsbury Park (National Rail Network and TfL). Also any buses that go to Blackstock or Holloway Road (then 12 minute walk) |
| Information: | Join Paul Busby and the Islington Ecology Centre team for a guided butterfly walk around this wildlife friendly London park | Contact details | Paul Busby email buzz113@hotmail.co.uk. |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Sunday 5 JULY 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Whitewebbs Park (LB Enfield) at the invitation of the Friends of Whitewebbs Park for Small Heath and other grassland butterflies |
| Location: | Whitewebbs Park' Enfield |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Beggars Hollow, (off Clay Hill), Enfield, EN2 9JN - TQ326988 |
| Time/meeting place: | Meet at the Café at 11:00 next to the car park at Beggars Hollow, morning walk to finish approx. 13:00 (note revised time) |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/cafe.insert.toast |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is Gordon Hill Train Station (Moorgate to Hertford North) (17-minute walk). By car follow Theobalds Park Road to Beggars Hollow (EN2 9JN) which is situated close to the Rose and Crown off Clay Hill, or via the A10 and Carterhatch Lane to Clay Hill. |
| Information | We are hoping to spot Silver-washed Fritillaries and aiming for canopy views of the Purple Emperor at the viewing area. If possible bring binoculars. |
| Contact details | Email the Friends of Whitewebbs using the email address with Butterfly Walk in the subject line. |
| Booking details: | No booking is required |
| Date: | Saturday 11 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Bricket Wood Common for White Admiral and Silver-washed Fritillary. |
| Location: | Bricket Wood Common, Hertfordshire |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nearest postcode AL2 3PJ - TL136021 [Landranger Map 166] |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:00 in the car park at St Stephen's Parish Centre, Station Road, Bricket Wood. Morning walk to finish approx. 12:30 - see below for afternoon extension details |
| What3words: | St Stephen's Parish Centrehttps://w3w.co/legend.visit.spray |
| Transport: | Nearest station is Bricket Wood Station (London Northwestern Railway - Watford Junction to St. Albans Abbey Station) |
| Directions: | From the roundabout at Junction 6 on the M1, take the slip road signed M1 south. Take the left turn halfway along this road (Mount Pleasant Lane), do not join the motorway. After a few twists & turns after about a mile you pass under a railway bridge. Continue along the road which bends sharply to the left. Pass Bricket Wood Station and the parish centre car park is on your right just after the junction with Drop Lane. |
| Information: | Optional extra - We will also be looking to repeat the sightings of Purple Emperor made in previous years from 12:30 -15:00. Bring packed lunch if you wish to stay for the afternoon and binoculars |
| Contact details: | Chris Newman & Malcolm Hull ~ 07768 154324 or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Saturday 11 JULY 2026 |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | Demonstration of moth trapping at Heartwood Forest with the Woodland Trust and Heartwood Volunteers lead by local moth expert Mark Sterling |
| Location: | Heartwood Forest |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Heartwood Forest, carpark off the B651, Sandridge AL4 9DQ |
| Time/meeting place: | 21:00 to 00:00 |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/cheat.post.half |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station St Albans City (Thameslink from London St Pancras Intl.) approx. 2.45 miles. There are two bus services which stop at Sandridge, one from Hitchin to Potters Bar (via St Albans) and one from Hemel Hempstead to Hatfield via Harpenden. Directions from the south. Head north from St Albans along the B651 towards Wheathampstead. Pass through the village of Sandridge along the main road and turn left at the brown road sign for Heartwood Forest (TL172110). Park in the main car park, situated off the B651, (Postcode AL4 9DQ). |
| Information | Free event but donations will be appreciated to help support the management of the woodland. Come prepared for potentially cold and wet weather and dress appropriately in warm clothes and wear suitable footwear. Bring a torch - a head torch is ideal but not essential. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. This walk is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues and is not wheelchair accessible. No dogs please |
| Contact details | When booking please also email heartwood@woodlandtrust.org.uk with your mobile phone number so that the walk organisers can contact you in the unlikely event of cancellation due to bad weather or unforeseen circumstances. |
| Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Sunday 12 JULY 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Tower Hamlets Cemetery at the invitation of the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park (London Borough of Tower Hamlets) |
| Location: | Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park and Local Nature Reserve |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Soanes Centre, Southern Grove, E3 4PX. TQ367823 [Landranger Map 177] |
| Time/meeting place: | 13:00 to 15:00 The Cemetery Park Lodge, the red brick building straight ahead of you as you enter via the main gates on Southern Grove E3 4PX |
| Transport & directions: | Mile End Underground Station (Central, District and Hammersmith and City Lines) is approx. 5 minute walk from the Tube entrance/exit. |
| Information | An opportunity to be shown around this famous urban, closed cemetery, now a public park and a designated local nature reserve. Weather permitting, we'll be at the peak of the summer butterflies, and could see up to 17 species, including, Meadow Brown, White-Letter Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary, Comma, Gatekeeper and 3 kinds of Skipper. In poor weather, we'll look at habitats, caterpillar food plants and nectar plants. Donations will be appreciated. |
| Booking details: | Ticket Tailor booking link |
| Date: | Thursday 16 JULY 2026 |
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| Event Title: | An early morning walk at Claybury Park looking for the elusive Brown Hairstreak at the invitation of Cambs & Essex Branch of Butterfly Conservation. |
| Location: | Claybury Park, Woodford Bridge, London Borough of Redbridge |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nearest postcode IG8 8NQ - TQ4248391229 [Landranger Map 177 or 167] |
| Time/meeting place: | 08:30 - 12:00 - Please meet outside the gates to the park on Roding Lane North at TQ4248391229 (just south of the junction with Vicarage Road). There is plenty of unrestricted free parking along Roding Lane North |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/offers.forms.loaded |
| Transport & directions: | Woodford Green tube station (Central Line) is a 15-20 minutes' walk from the meeting point. |
| Information | The Brown Hairstreak had been missing from the Cambridgeshire & Essex Branch area for generations eggs were discovered in Claybury Park in December 2022. This last winter, there was a very strong egg count which suggests that Brown Hairstreak is now well established at Claybury Park. Join us for an early start to try and see this beautiful and elusive butterfly. This guided walk will locate likely assembly trees to catch the morning activity of the Brown Hairstreak males. Along the way we will be keeping an eye out for any females that may be lower down on blackthorn or nectaring on adjacent flowers. |
| Contact details | Ian Watts - see email below for all communications |
| Booking details: | The walk is limited to 10 attendees - please contact Ian Watts ian@ianwatts.co.uk to confirm your place |
| Date: | Saturday 25 JULY 2026 |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Therfield Heath for Chalkhill Blue and summer butterflies with Cambridgeshire & Essex Branch (with kind permission of the Conservators of Therfield Heath and Greens). This walk should be close to the peak of the Chalkhill Blue season. |
| Location: | Therfield Heath, near Royston |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL347405 [Landranger Map 154] postcode SG8 5BG (Postcode is same for 3 car parks on the Heath make sure you are at the main one near tennis courts not Golf Club or small one without any buildings near McDonalds) |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 at the main Therfield Heath car park. (morning walk to finish before 13:00). Please meet on the grass by the green Rugby Changing Rooms at the far end of the car park from the entrance. Refreshments available from adjacent Heath Cafe Bar before or afterwards. The leader will be at the start whatever the weather, but there will not be many butterflies to see in wet weather so do not travel far if the forecast is poor |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/original.lawyer.deliver |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station: Royston (Thameslink from London Kings Cross to Cambridge). Directions from the A505 just west of Royston, take the exit to Royston (old road) that runs beneath the Heath; the car park is approx. 1km on the right. |
| Information | There will be some steep slopes. The use of close focusing binoculars might be beneficial when looking at the close detail of some of the smaller butterflies |
| Contact details | Nick Keep ~ 07305 241796 (for queries) | Booking details: | Advance booking through Eventbrite will be required through this link |
| Date: | Sunday 2 AUGUST 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly Identification Walk at Gladstone Park with the Friends of Gladstone Park |
| Location: | Gladstone Park, Dollis Hill (Brent Council) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | 1 Kendal Road, Dollis Hill, London NW10 1JH - TQ221855 [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | 11:00 - 13:00 meet at the green railway bridge opposite 1 Kendal Road |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/dwell.family.spots |
| Transport & directions: | The nearest tube station is Dollis Hill (Jubilee Line) a short walk from the meeting place or you can park in the street. There are always places along Kendal Road. If you take the tube please turn right after the ticket turnstiles, go up the steps, across the zebra crossing and along Hamilton Road directly opposite the station exit, then at the park turn left. |
| Information: | |
| Contact details: | Malcolm Hull 07768 154324 or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk |
| Booking details: | No booking is required |
| Date: | Sunday 9 AUGUST 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Stafford Road Open Space for summer butterflies and the hope of seeing the elusive Brown Hairstreak butterfly in the blackthorn scrub |
| Location: | Stafford Road Open Space in the London Borough of Hillingdon |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Start Point on Yeading Brook footpath TQ0960285505. [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | Start 10:30 on Stafford Road Open Space at the sign post on the Yeading Brook footpath TQ0960285505. Finish at this location 13:00. For those arriving by train, bus, or parking in the stations small car park you may meet the leader earlier at the entrance to Ruislip Gardens Underground Station (Central Line) DEPARTING at 10:15 for the 600m walk along the Yeading Brook to the event start point where we will meet those that have made their own way there. |
| What3words: | Stafford Road Open Space Meeting point - https://w3w.co/daring.sticks.eaten Google GPS co-ordinates 51°33'28.3"N 0°25'13.2"W |
| Transport & directions: | On Central Line, also E7 bus (every 20 minutes) from Ruislip (Metropolitan & Piccadilly) to Ealing Broadway (District and National rail). Very limited pay and display parking at station, some off-street parking plus car parks at Sidmouth Drive (HA4 ODA) and Ruislip Gardens shops at New Pond Parade, West End Road (HA4 6LR). |
| Information | Strong shoes are advisable - those attending must be mindful that blackthorn has sharp thorns so care should be taken if taking photos. Walk length approx. 5km. |
| Contact details | Nick Furtek - nick_furtek@yahoo.co.uk |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking will be added in due course |
| Date: | Date to be confirmed |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Merry Hill, Bushey for summer butterflies and the hope of seeing the elusive Brown Hairstreak butterfly with the permission of the Woodland Trust. Part of the Big Butterfly Count programme of butterfly walks. |
| Location: | Merry Hill off Merry Hill Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nearest Postcode WD23 1DF - TQ136943 [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | Meet at tbc at the upper footpath entrance on Merry Hill Road just past number 125 - we aim to finish by tbc. |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/apples.wallet.chair |
| Transport & directions: | The nearest mainline station is Bushey (London Northwestern Railway from London Euston (approx. 1 mile walk) alternatively it is possible to walk across the site from Carpenders Park (London Overground). Buses are reasonably frequent and stop at Merry Hill Road (eastern end). The 258 runs from Watford Junction to South Harrow station and the 142 runs from Watford Junction to Brent Cross - both call at Bushey Station. It is approx. 8 minute walk along Merry Hill Road to the meet point. We suggest you park in Victoria Road just off Merry Hill Road a short distance from the meeting point. |
| Information | Brown Hairstreak were first confirmed at this site in 2024 making it the first known modern Hertfordshire site |
| Contact details on the day | Peter Fewell mobile: 07814 282356 |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking details will be added in due course |
| Date: | Tuesday 18 AUGUST 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Clothall Common, Baldock for 'Summer Blues' including hopefully second brood Adonis and Small Blue with Cambridgeshire & Essex Branch of Butterfly Conservation |
| Location: | Clothall Common, Baldock |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL257342 [Landranger Map 153] - postcode SG7 6SU (Aleyn Way) |
| Time/meeting place: | 11:00 at the entrance to the Open Space at the north end of Aleyn Way - this is a residential street (morning walk to finish before 13:00). |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/fame.powder.upper |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station: Baldock (Thameslink from London Kings Cross to Cambridge). From the A505 just east of Baldock, take the slip road exit to Baldock (old road) into the town and at the traffic lights turn left onto the A507 (directions Buntingford). Just before you cross the Baldock Bypass there is a roundabout; take the first turning onto Wallington Road marked as a dead end. Follow the road around, then at a small roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Yeomanry Drive and then turn right onto Aleyn Way - the meeting point is at the end of the road. Parking will be on street so please respect local residents. |
| Information | Join Andrew Wood and Liz Goodyear for a walk around Clothall Common which was created when the Baldock Bypass was built and now become established as a very good site for 'blue' butterflies! |
| Contact details | Liz Goodyear email: elizabethgoodyear@talk21.com or 07815 581934 on the day only |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking details will be added in due course |
| Date: | Saturday 29 AUGUST 2026 * NEW * |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Therfield Heath for Adonis Blue and other second brood butterflies with Cambridgeshire & Essex Branch of Butterfly Conservation (with kind permission of the Conservators of Therfield Heath and Greens). |
| Location: | Therfield Heath, near Royston |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL347405 [Landranger Map 154] postcode SG8 5BG (Postcode is same for 3 car parks on the Heath make sure you are at the main one near tennis courts not Golf Club or small one without any buildings near McDonalds) |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 at the main Therfield Heath car park. (morning walk to finish before 13:00). Please meet on the grass by the green Rugby Changing Rooms at the far end of the car park from the entrance. Refreshments available from adjacent Heath Cafe Bar before or afterwards. The leader will be at the start whatever the weather, but there will not be many butterflies to see in wet weather so do not travel far if the forecast is poor |
| What3words: | https://what3words.com/original.lawyer.deliver |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station: Royston (Thameslink from London Kings Cross to Cambridge). Directions from the A505 just west of Royston, take the exit to Royston (old road) that runs beneath the Heath; the car park is approx. 1km on the right. |
| Information | There will be some steep slopes. Separate your blues - at this event last year we saw 5 species of Blue (Adonis, Chalkhill, Common, Holly and Brown Argus). We are still hopeful that the Small Blue will colonise from nearby sites on private land to make six. Maybe this year? The use of close focusing binoculars might be beneficial when looking at the close detail of some of the smaller butterflies |
| Contact details | Nick Keep ~ 07305 241796 (for queries) |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking details will be added in due course |
| Date: | Saturday 3rd OCTOBER 2026 * DATE FOR YOUR DIARY * |
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| Event Title: | Branch OPEN DAY |
| Information | Our new format Branch Open Day will be held at The Box Moor Trust Centre |
| Details | Full details and programme will be made available once confirmed but will including several speakers and activities/workshops. Booking will be required in due course for catering purposes. The Box Moor Trust Centre is situated just off the A41 on the old London Road in Hemel Hempstead. The centre is located within easy access of the M1 and M25 motorways and within walking distance of Hemel Hempstead train station. |
*The Branch sells the FSC Identification Guide to Butterflies. Contact Malcolm Hull for more information (07768 154324 or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk)
Children
Children are welcome at our events, but if under 16 they must be accompanied by at least one adult for two children. It is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s) to ensure that the event is within the children's ability.
Dogs
Dogs are normally welcome on walks but must be kept under control. Any exceptions are shown in the individual event details.
Bad weather
Leaders of Branch-led walks will be at the meeting point whatever the weather, but may cancel the event if conditions are unsuitable. Any exceptions are shown in the individual event details. Other organisations and BC branches have different policies. Please contact the named leader for the walk before travelling if you have any concerns.
Lyme Disease
We recommend that all attendees understand the symptoms of Lyme Disease and take the relevant precautions. For more information visit the branch website -
here
Special needs
Unfortunately, most walks will not be suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. Please contact the named leader in advance if you have any concerns about accessibility.
What3words
We have tried to include the What3word link for each event. To download the App visit: https://what3words.com/products/what3words-app
Public Transport
We aim to give as much information as possible, although unfortunately some of the Hertfordshire events are not easily accessible by public transport. Train times should be checked, as timetables change and engineering works take place on Saturdays and Sundays. We recommend using public transport for all events in London.
If using your car please check you are ULEZ compliant https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/ultra-low-emission-zone