Hertfordshire & Middlesex Branch
Saving butterflies, moths and our environment
The 2025 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.
We have been reviewing our booking system again and some events will require advance booking through an online booking provider such as Eventbrite, although some walk leaders are happy to have no advance booking.
Sadly the Big City Butterfly Project has ended but we hope to include several walks in the project area this year
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 2025 walks programme in pdf format is here - this will be updated regularly
Last updated 06 May 2025
| Date: | Sunday 11 MAY 2025 *RESCHEDULED* |
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| Event Title: | A Bank Holiday guided walk at Wanstead Flats looking for Green Hairstreak. This historic site, an SSSI consisting of acid grassland and scrub is a largely treeless part of Epping Forest that supports an impressive range of flora and fauna within a heavily urban environment. At the invitation of the Cambridgeshire & Essex Branch of Butterfly Conservation. |
| Location: | Wanstead Flats (London Borough of Redbridge) |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 - 13:00. Please meet by the information signs in the A114 Centre Road car park. Please note that parking charges (£4 for 2-4 hours) apply at this car park. Nearest postcode E7 0EF |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/since.elder.keeps |
| Transport & directions: | Wanstead Flats is a 1.8km (1.1 mile) walk from Leytonstone station on the Central line; a 0.4 mile (0.7km) walk from Leytonstone High Road or Wanstead Park stations on the London Overground or Forest Gate station on TfL Rail. The 58 and 308 buses both serve Wanstead Flats directly. |
| Information | Please note that this walk will only take place if the weather is suitable. It is important that all attendees notify the organiser that they plan to come along because there may be a last minute cancellation or postponement. In that event, the organiser will contact the group by email. |
| Contact details | Ian Watts - see email below for all communications |
| Booking details: | The walk is limited to 15 attendees - please contact Ian Watts ian@ianwatts.co.uk to confirm your place |
| Date: | Sunday 11th MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Nature Day including a butterfly walk lead by Steve Bolton at Wormwood Scrubs (London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham) with the Friends of Wormwood Scrubs |
| Location: | Wormwood Scrubs |
| Address and/or grid ref: | See details below |
| Time: | Butterfly walk lead by Steve Bolton 11:30 in the Scrubs Lane carpark, W12 0HU. Walk to last approx. 1 hour |
| Information: |
Join RSPB officer Kate McVay for a weekend of nature events which will include a butterfly walk lead by Steve Bolton
Provisional programme includes:- Saturday 10 May
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| Booking details | For more information please email : Kate McVay |
| Date: | Sunday 11 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Hounslow Heath and Feltham Marshalling Yard to see spring heathland species - the target is Green Hairstreak and also Small Heath and Small Copper |
| Location: | Hounslow Heath Nature Reserve, nr. Hounslow (London Borough of Hounslow) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nearest postcode TW4 6AE. TQ119748 [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | 14:00 at the Hounslow Heath Car Park, 450 Staines Road, TW4 5RB - approx. 2 ½ hour duration to including walking to and from the Marshalling Yards |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/tables.safely.once |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest underground station is Hounslow West (Piccadilly Line) - 25 minute walk. Local buses stop nearby (Frampton Road Bus Stop) |
| Information | No toilets or refreshments on site. Although the site is relatively flat, walking boots and long trousers are recommended. |
| Contact details | Malcolm Hull~ 07768 154324 or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk. |
| Booking details: | No booking for this particular event is required |
| Date: | Sunday 11 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Spring butterfly walk at Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park with 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 - 15:30 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 | Weather permitting, we should see 10 or 11 species, including, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Orange-Tip, Peacock and Green Hairstreak. 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: | Saturday 17 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Guided walk at Bovingdon Brickworks for spring butterflies including Dingy Skipper and day flying moths. For those interested this is also a good site for solitary bees and wasps as well as having a significant array of wildflowers. At the invitation of the Box Moor Trust. |
| Location: | Bovingdon Brickworks |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Carpark off Green Lane, Bovingdon - nearest postcode HP3 0NW. TL007032 [Landranger Map 165] |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 - Meet in the site carpark (see directions). Morning walk to finish approx. 13:00. |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/legend.list.under |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is Hemel Hempstead approx. 3 miles (West Midlands Trains from London Euston) - taxi to site would be at least £10. Directions for the Brickworks Wildlife Site: - coming from the M25 leave at J20 onto A41 dual carriageway to Aylesbury. Leave at the next junction at Bourne End. At roundabout, take 2nd exit on to A4251 heading east on London Road towards Boxmoor and Hemel Hempstead. In about 1000 metres at the traffic lights turn right at the Swan Antique Centre on to B4505 / Box Lane. Drive straight on across mini roundabouts and a double roundabout (next to the Half Way House Pub) for a total of 2.7 miles. Then take the main turn on the left to Ley Hill and be ready to turn immediately left again on to Green Lane. In about 200 metres you will see a gateway on the right - hidden in the hedge - where there is small carpark. |
| Information | Most of the site is easy walking but the wilder bits has bramble that needs care to pass. There are a few steep sided dell holes (which do not have to be navigated) so if any children attend they need to be closely supervised. The site can be very muddy after rain so appropriate footwear is advised. |
| Contact details | Malcolm Hull (07768 154324) or email: malcolmhull@hertsmiddx-butterflies.org.uk. The Box Moor Trust reserve the right to cancel the event if weather conditions are considered unfavourable. Booking for this walk is required as numbers will be restricted. |
| Booking details: | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1333777246649 |
| Date: | Saturday 17 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Guided walk for spring butterflies at Shrub Hill Common looking for Dingy Skipper and day flying moths |
| Location: | Shrub Hill Common, Hemel Hempstead |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Varney Road, Hemel Hempstead - nearest postcode HP1 2LR, TL035074 [Landranger Map 165] |
| Time/meeting place: | 14:15 - Meet at Common entrance off Varney Road to finish approx. 16:15. |
| What3words: | https://w3w.co/scar.ideas.globe |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is Hemel Hempstead approx. 1.25 miles (West Midlands Trains from London Euston). Directions for Varney Road: coming from the M25, use the left lane to take the A414 slip road to Hemel Hempstead, continue into Hemel Hempstead and after .5 miles turn left onto London Rd/A425; at the roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on London Rd/A4251; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Fishery Rd and then at the next roundabout take the 1st exit onto Northridge Way. Go through 1 roundabout then at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Long Chaulden, after 0.8 miles, and turn right into Varney Road. There will be some on street parking on the right side. |
| Information | Most of the site is easy walking. The site can be very muddy after rain so appropriate footwear is advised. |
| Contact details | Chris Ridley 07463821287 (on the day only) or email: chrisridley57@gmail.com |
| Booking details: | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1333786724999 |
| Date: | Thursday 22 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Introduction to Butterfly Recording Walk with the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust - please note there is a £10 donation |
| Location: | Aldbury Nowers HMWT Reserve |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Off Northfield Road, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 5QW |
| Time/meeting place: | 12:00 - 14:00 |
| What3words: | |
| Transport & directions: | Nearest station is Tring Station (West Midlands Railways from London Euston) - approx 1/2 mile walk but along busy road with no pavement |
| Information | Take a walk across the beautiful Aldbury Nowers with the HMWT Reserves Officer. See what butterflies you can see, all levels of butterfly enthusiast welcome Please be aware this walk will cover very steep ground, going through gates and stiles. Please dress appropriately for the weather! There may be mud/wet ground, so sturdy boots are advised. This event is weather dependent and may need to be cancelled at short notice. |
| Contact details | 01727 858 901 or email: info@hmwt.org |
| Booking details: | Advance booking with the Herts & Middlesex Trust is essential - link here |
| Date: | Wednesday 28 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Butterfly walk for Small Blue, day-flying moths and other grassland species with the permission of the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Trust |
| Location: | land off Hillbrow |
| Address and/or grid ref: | TL207319 [Landranger Map 166] or postcode SG6 3RF |
| Time/meeting place: | 11:00 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. 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 and Liz Goodyear for a guided walk around this excellent Small Blue 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 details | Liz Goodyear email: elizabethgoodyear@talk21.com or 07815 581934 on the day only |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1345440782599 |
| Date: | Saturday 31 MAY 2025 |
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| Event Title: | 'We the Lea' - Organised under the umbrella of the London National Park City walking festival you are invited to walk the Lee Valley and help protect one of London's most important ecological corridors. At the invitation of the Hackney Buzzline |
| Location: | To be confirmed |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Various locations along the River Lea |
| Time/meeting place: | All day event between 10:30 to 17:00 |
| Transport & directions: | |
| Information | This is a day of three parts 1) an event from 11:00-13:00 on Walthamstow Marshes organised by a group of boaters focusing around a series of short 10 min talks from specialists on ecology, climate and biodiversity. 2) A 2hr walk down the Lea Valley to Cody Dock to see some of the habitat creation and other projects happening. 3) A 2hour programme of activities at Cody Dock including two talks and some short river-based films. One of the talks will be by the biodiversity officer at Cody Dock. There will be a reflection/art event there where people can describe their dreams for the Lea plus food and refreshments. |
| Contact details | |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/we-the-lea-tickets-1226650918919 |
| Date: | Saturday 7 JUNE 2025 |
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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: | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spring-butterfly-walk-at-heartwood-forest-tickets-1336666518539 |
| Date: | Sunday 8 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | South West Herts Great Big Green Week - Green Market Takeover |
| Location: | Watford High Street |
| Information | The 2025 South West Herts Great Big Green Week (GBGW) will take place over the 7-15 June 2025 across Three Rivers and Watford. Volunteers from the branch will be helping on the sales stand at the Green Market Takeover |
| Details | Full details are available here |
| Date: | Wednesday 11 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Bees and Butterflies at the invitation of the Friends of Headstone Manor Park with Margaret Huitson |
| Location: | Headstone Manor Park, Pinner View Harrow HA2 6PX |
| Time/meeting place: | 10:30 - 13:00 approx. Outside the Moat Cafe |
| Transport & directions: | Public Transport: Harrow and Wealdstone (Bakerloo, Overground and National Rail) - is a 15 minute walk from Headstone Manor Park. Alternatively you can also take the H9 bus from outside the station. Headstone Lane (Overground) - is a 15 minute walk from Headstone Manor Park and the simplest route. North Harrow (Metropolitan) - is a 15 minute walk from Headstone Manor Park . Alternately you can also take the H10 bus from outside the station. The H9 and H10 stop at Pinner View, which is a three minute walk away from Headstone Manor Park. The H14 stops at Victor Road, which is a six minute walk away from Headstone Manor Park. Car Parking - There is a free car parking in Pinner View, opposite the Moat Cafe. Cycling - There are several bike racks located in the car park. |
| Information | Join Margaret Huitson of the Friends of Headstone Manor Park. Margaret is a local naturalist and has an indepth knowledge of the park. The activity is aimed at adults however children of 8+ years, accompanied by an adult, are welcome. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring a drink/ snack. Some of the walks will be over grassed areas which may be muddy - depending upon the weather conditions. The event will take place come rain or shine however in the event of extreme weather you will be notified should we need to postpone the event. Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead. |
| Contact details | For more information email: fohmrg@gmail.com |
| Booking details: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wednesday-wander-bees-butterflies-tickets-1089920293939 |
| Date: | Saturday 14 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Horsenden Festival of Nature '25 |
| Location: | Horsenden Farm |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Horsenden Lane North Perivale, UB6 7RA |
| Time | 11:00 - 17:00 |
| Transport: | Horsenden Farm is close to Perivale Underground Station (Central Line) and the 297 bus route |
| Information | Celebrate, discover and learn about the abundance of nature at Horsenden and enjoy this wonderful green space. Volunteers from the branch will be helping on the sales stand |
| Details | Full details are available here |
| Date: | Monday 23 - Sunday 29 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Insect Week 2025 |
| Information | Royal Entomological Society Insect Week runs from Monday 23 JUNE to Sunday 29 JUNE 2025. Events are organised across our branch area |
| Details | Full details and list of events are available here |
| Date: | Monday 23 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Guided Butterfly Walk at Alexandra Park North (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: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Thursday 26 JUNE 2025 |
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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: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Saturday 28 JUNE 2025 |
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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 10:30 next to the car park at Beggars Hollow, morning walk to finish approx. 12:30 |
| 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 Small Heath butterflies along with a range of other grassland species such as the Small, Essex and Large Skippers on the former golf course meadows. |
| 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 28 JUNE 2025 |
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| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk and examining the contents of the previous night's moth trap with the 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: | www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/holland-park-ecology-centre-6717291179 |
| Date: | Sunday 29 JUNE 2025 |
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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: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Date at the end of June/early July to be confirmed nearer the time. |
|---|---|
| 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: | Date to be confirmed |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | Guided Butterfly walk at Hampstead Heath with Heath Hands |
| Location: | Hampstead Heath (London Borough of Camden) |
| Address and/or grid ref: | Nassington Road, Hampstead Heath, nearest postcode NW3 2TY - TQ277858 [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time: | to be confirmed but meet outside The Hive, Hampstead Heath (Hampstead Heath's community and volunteering hub) |
| What3words: | |
| Transport: | It is recommended you use public transport. The nearest station is Hampstead Heath (London Overground) then approx. ½ mile walk |
| Information: | Heath Hands arrange several butterfly walks during the summer but do not set a date until much closer to event - website details below for more information. In the case of wet weather, there is a room at the Hive which will be used for part of the session. Heath Hands email: bookings@heath-hands.org.uk |
| Booking details: | https://www.heath-hands.org.uk/whatson |
| Date: | Sunday 6 JULY 2025 |
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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: | Paul Busby, Herts & Middlesex Butterfly Conservation buzz113@hotmail.co.uk |
| Booking details: | No booking is required |
| Date: | Sunday 13 JULY 2025 |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | Guided butterfly walk at Tower Hamlets Cemetery with 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: | 10:30 to 13:00 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 24 JULY 2025 |
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| 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 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). 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://w3w.co/midfield.hiding.bunch |
| 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: | Eventbrite booking required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Sunday 3rd AUGUST 2025 |
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| 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 required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Wednesday 6 AUGUST 2025 |
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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: | 09:00 - 11:00 - 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: | Sunday 17 AUGUST 2025 |
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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: | TQ096854. [Landranger Map 176] |
| Time/meeting place: | Start 10:30 on Stafford Road Open Space at the sign post on the brookside footpath TQ096854. Finish 13:00. (For those travelling by public transport DEPART 10:15 from Ruislip Gardens Underground Station exit for a 600m additional walk to the start point - postcode HA4 6NF - TQ100858 [Landranger Map 176] .) |
| What3words: | Stafford Road Open Space Meeting point - https://w3w.co/daring.sticks.eaten |
| 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 required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Tuesday 19 AUGUST 2025 |
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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 required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
| Date: | Saturday 23 AUGUST 2025 |
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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 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). 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://w3w.co/midfield.hiding.bunch |
| 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 required https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/butterfly-conservation-herts-amp-middlesex-branch-33094463891 |
*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. In 2024 industrial action may also affect travel arrangements. 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