Work is at a preliminary stage for a potential signposted mid-distance walk from Digswell to Hertford using existing footpaths and rights of way, to be known as the Repton Trail, after Humphry Repton who designed several of the parklands in the area.

Humphry Repton

Humphrey Repton (1752-1818) was one of the foremost landscape designers of the late 18^th/early 19^th century.  His work locally is best described in his ‘Red Books of Panshanger and Tewin Water’. In undertaking his work for Henry Cowper at Tewin Water, he commented:

‘…. The whole of the beautiful valley from Welwin (sic) to Hertford, including Digswell, Tewin Water, Panshanger and Cole Green, belonging to the same noble family…. while  each possesses its independent privacy and seclusion, their united woods and lawns will,  by extending through the whole valley, enrich the general face of the County.’

The Repton Trail

Based on these Mimram Valley Parklands described above, this is a route proposed along existing footpaths from Digswell Viaduct in the west to Poplars Green in the east (approximately 4 kilometres/2.5 miles). At Panshanger Park, footpaths continue eastwards a further 3 kilometres/2 miles to Thieves Lane, Hertford.

Initial work covers:

1. inviting comment on the route and its identified historic features. (NB:  it is important to note that many of the historic features are private and ‘offset’ from The Trail)
2. gaining feedback from landowners, neighbours, ramblers and other interested parties.
3. highlighting the case of the improvement of the link at Poplars Green where the route (also the Herts Green Chain Walk) crosses the B1000.
4. obtaining opinions on the merit of providing:
   • waymarking, to guide walkers;
   • landscape history information boards at key points along The Trail;
   • illustrative leaflet depicting The Trail
5. publicising the opportunity for a practical educational resource dealing with social and industrial history.