Danesbury nature reserve is split in two halves, with limited parking available on adjacent residential roads. The reserve is accessible by foot via access points on Codicote road, North ride, Danesbury park road and Roman road.
Cattle graze the reserve between spring and autumn therefore it’s advised to keep dogs on leads during this period. The reserve comprises a mix of flat and undulating paths which can be enjoyed by users of varying ability, access points and footpaths can often become muddy in wetter seasons so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Address: Welwyn, AL6 9RD, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
Opening Times: The Fernery is accessible to the public at all times.
By foot
Directions to the Fernery are sign-posted from the Welwyn Link Road (B656). The Fernery is sited in the middle of the Fernery Field, being part of the Danesbury Local Nature Reserve.
There are three kissing-gate access points to the field from Danesbury Park Road which runs directly north from North Ride (AL6 9RD) on the Danesbury Housing Estate. The Fernery itself has a kissing-gate entrance too, but sadly none allow wheelchair access.
The field is rough grassland and cattle graze at some times of the year. They are docile breeds that the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (the owners) allow on many open public spaces in the Borough. 500 yards on the right hand lane or in the field itself.
By car
From the North – leave the A1(M) at Exit 6, then take the 3rd exit, follow the A1000 > Welwyn by-pass.
From the South – leave the A1(M) at Exit 6, then take the 2nd exit, follow the A1000 > Welwyn by-pass.
At the Clock Roundabout on the Welwyn By-Pass > join the B656 Welwyn Link Road for a short distance > (Direction of Codicote)
- After 100 yards take 1st Right > Carleton Rise
- After 150 yards take 2nd Right > North Ride
Park at the top end of North Ride and walk for 500 yards on the right hand lane or in the field itself.
By bus
Bus Routes 301/302 to Carleton Rise/The Clock – then follow the Public Footpath behind Clockhouse Gardens across the Field and observe the Fernery halfway along the path and up on the left.