Handpost Hill

Hill, Mountain in Hertfordshire Welwyn Hatfield

England

Handpost Hill

Church of St Thomas A Becket, Northaw It&#039;s there if you look closely — Church of St Thomas A Becket, Northaw Credit: David Howard

Handpost Hill is a prominent hill located in the county of Hertfordshire, England. Situated near the town of Welwyn Garden City, it is part of the wider Chiltern Hills range. Although referred to as a hill, its elevation and steepness make it resemble a small mountain.

Rising to an impressive height of approximately 293 meters (961 feet) above sea level, Handpost Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Its location within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty further adds to its allure. The hill is covered in lush green vegetation, with a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees dotting its slopes.

Handpost Hill is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers. Several well-marked trails crisscross the area, providing opportunities for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes. The hill's elevated position also makes it an excellent spot for paragliding and other aerial activities.

The unique geological composition of Handpost Hill adds to its appeal. The underlying rocks consist mainly of chalk, which contributes to the formation of characteristic chalk grasslands rich in wildflowers and diverse wildlife. Rare plant species, including orchids, can be found here.

The hill has historical significance as well. It is believed that Handpost Hill was a strategic vantage point during ancient times, offering a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic era.

In conclusion, Handpost Hill in Hertfordshire is a captivating natural feature offering stunning vistas, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich historical heritage. It provides an ideal setting for outdoor activities and serves as a popular destination for those seeking a connection with nature.

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Handpost Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.714183/-0.1308931 or Grid Reference TL2903. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Church of St Thomas A Becket, Northaw

It's there if you look closely

David Howard

Northaw Green and memorial

David Howard

Judge's pub, Northaw

Finally fully open after the lockdowns

David Howard

Northaw Great Wood (Country Park)

Path in Northaw Great Wood (Country Park).

Roger Jones

Sunlight catches trees - Northaw Great Wood (Country Park)

Prominently situated in two valleys dissecting the London Clay plateau of South Hertfordshire, the Great Wood and the adjacent Well Wood together comprise one of the county’s most extensive areas of ancient Hornbean dominated woodland. Northaw Great Wood is a remnant of the extensive forest that covered much of the area before the Norman conquest.In the 16th century, it was recorded as a Woodland Common and as such would have been used for grazing, while pollarding the Hornbeams provided commoners’ fuel. In 1806 the Common of Northaw was enclosed by Act of Parliament. From then until 1938 it was a private woodland used for timber production. In 1937, Hertfordshire County Council acquired 290 acres of this land and the site is now managed by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council. The above from: See Link