Rickmansworth: Lakes, Walks and History

Rickmansworth combines a large natural area with walks, historic buildings and cultural attractions. If you’re looking for a hotel in Rickmansworth, you can start planning your trip around your own interests: nature and walks, local history, or a live performance at Watersmeet.

Nature Reserve, Lakes and Birdlife

Rickmansworth Aquadrome is a Local Nature Reserve with two large lakes, Batchworth Lake and Bury Lake. Woodland and open grassland surround the lakes. The area is particularly important for waterbirds, including mallards and great crested grebes. The paths around the lakes are fully accessible. Rickmansworth Station is a five-minute walk from the Aquadrome. The Aquadrome also forms the northern gateway to Colne Valley Regional Park.

Walks, Water and Activities

The Ebury Way is open to cyclists, walkers and horse riders. It crosses the rivers Colne, Chess and Gade, as well as the Grand Union Canal. At Scotsbridge, you can walk along the River Chess and watch for wildlife. The River Chess at Scotsbridge is considered a globally rare chalk stream. Scotsbridge also has a skatepark, play area, tennis courts and football pitches.

Clubs at Rickmansworth Aquadrome include sailing, water skiing, fishing and model sailing; participation is through the respective clubs. Regular boat trips run between Batchworth Lock and Stockers Lock. Check the availability of trips before travelling.

Play Area and Path Status

The Ebury Play Area at Rickmansworth Aquadrome was reported open following renovations in July 2026. In June 2026, the Woodland Walk remained closed after high-risk asbestos was found near the path. Check the current status of both areas before your visit.

Buildings and Local History

On the southern edge of Rickmansworth stands The Bury, a large 16th-century half-timbered building that was once the manor house of Rickmansworth. The tower of St Mary's Church dates from 1630. A window was created by Morris & Company in 1896; its principal elements are by Sir Edward Burne-Jones. A guide takes visitors through the church’s architecture, history and furnishings.

The Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady Help of Christians and St Augustine's Hall are Grade II listed buildings. The church was built in 1909 to designs by Arthur Young and adjoins a late-19th-century malt house now known as St Augustine's Hall. Basing House is a Grade II listed building of significant historic interest; the present building was built in 1740. Part of Basing House is said to incorporate part of the house where William Penn lived.

Market, Museum and Performances

The monthly market on Rickmansworth High Street has been running since April 2022 and attracts more than 40 traders. Watersmeet is an arts and entertainment venue in Rickmansworth that hosts live performances. Nearby, the Three Rivers Museum of Local History shows how people in the Three Rivers area lived and worked. It is open Wednesday to Friday from 2 pm to 4 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. Check opening hours before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Meriden, Tewin, Hertingfordbury, Bishops Stortford, Radlett, Wigginton, Codicote, Stevenage

For the main travel overview: Hertfordshire.