Attractions and places to see around Batchworth offer a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational opportunities. This civil parish, part of Rickmansworth in Hertfordshire, is notable for its connection to the Grand Union Canal and its surrounding natural landscapes. The area provides diverse experiences, from tranquil waterways to ancient commons and historical structures.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Batchworth.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
About 1922, the land between the River Colne and the canal was taken over by Rickmansworth Gravel Company. Building in the capital was booming and gravel was in demand. Extraction at the site began and the resulting pit became Stocker's Lake. The original Wembley stadium was built at around this time and many have since speculated on the possibility of a Wembley Connection? Dredging and gravel extraction continued until the 1940s. In 1947 Rickmansworth and Uxbridge Valley Water Company purchased Stocker's Lake (an area of 93.7 acres) for £5000 as the dredging agreement had expired. This was to protect the aquifer and pumping sources at Stocker's and Springwell. The company became Rickmansworth Water Company in 1985 and later part of Three Valleys Water Company, eventually Affinity Water, the present owners. In the 1970s Stocker’s Lake became a nature reserve and day to day management was assigned by the water company to Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
1
0
The land on which Stocker's Lake now stands was once part of Stocker's Farm which is still there today. Records from 1427 show that the farm already existed and was owned by John Stockere or Stocker. In 1861, Stocker's House was built for the Corporation of London to house the Collector of Coal Dues on the Grand Union Canal. Stocker's House cost £850 to build and the first tenant was Mr. Charles Browton. The dues he collected were, for example, 4 shillings per ton of wine and 12 pence a ton of coal. However with the railways becoming increasingly popular it was decided to sell the house and in 1869 Lord Ebury offered £300
1
0
The Ebury Way is a flat, traffic-free cycle path between Rickmansworth and Watford. Shaded for hot days and dotted with scenic bridges, it also features a wooden hut café at Batchworth Lock (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) – ideal for a bacon sandwich by the canal. Keep an eye out for quirky touches like George Michael street art!
1
0
St John the Baptist also known as Aldenham Church is located South-West of Aldenham on a large plot of land and probably has its origins into Saxon times. The building is mainly made of flint and brick but incorporates a lot of Hertfordshire Puddingstones and classic stones. The church has undergone many restorations works over the centuries with the spire rebuilt after its destruction during WW2. Aldenham Church & the village are often used in many films, advertisements and television programmes
1
0
1
0
St John the Baptist also known as Aldenham Church is located South-West of Aldenham on a large plot of land and probably has its origins into Saxon times. The building is mainly made of flint and brick but incorporates a lot of Hertfordshire Puddingstones and classic stones. The church has undergone many restorations works over the centuries with the spire rebuilt after its destruction during WW2. Aldenham Church & the village are often used in many films, advertisements and television programmes.
1
0
0
0
0
0
Batchworth offers a variety of natural landscapes. You can visit Batchworth Heath, a 4-hectare ancient common with diverse flora and wildlife. The Rickmansworth Aquadrome, including Batchworth Lake, Stockers Lake, and Bury Lake, provides opportunities for water activities and nature walks. The River Colne also meanders through the area, offering picturesque views. While slightly outside Batchworth, Ruislip Lido is a popular lake and recreational area known for its natural beauty.
Yes, the area is excellent for walking and cycling. The Rickmansworth Aquadrome and the Grand Union Canal offer easily accessible paths. A popular option is the Ebury Way Cycle Path, a flat, traffic-free route between Rickmansworth and Watford, featuring a canal-side café at Batchworth Lock. For more specific routes, you can explore guides like Easy hikes around Batchworth or Cycling around Batchworth.
Batchworth has several sites with historical significance. The Batchworth Lock Canal Centre is located alongside Lock No. 81 of the Grand Union Canal, offering insights into the canal's history. You can also see Batchworth Mill, which dates back to at least 1755 and has served various industrial purposes. Batchworth Heath House, a Grade II listed building from the late 18th century, and the historic Batchworth Bridge over the River Colne also contribute to the area's rich past. Don't miss Stocker's Lock and Stone Bridge, a quaint old lock with a fascinating history related to the Grand Union Canal and local land use.
Absolutely! The Rickmansworth Aquadrome is a great spot for families, offering walking paths, water activities, and plenty of space to explore. Ruislip Lido, a short distance away, is a lake with cycling paths, a beach, and a narrow-gauge train, making it very popular with children. The Ebury Way Cycle Path is also suitable for family bike rides due to its flat, traffic-free nature.
Batchworth Lake, within the Rickmansworth Aquadrome, is a hub for water sports, including water skiing. Various clubs operate here for sailing and model yacht sailing. Fishing is also popular at Batchworth Lake and Sabeys Pool, though permits may be required. The Grand Union Canal also offers opportunities for boating and enjoying the waterways.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many enjoy the peaceful walks and bike rides along the Ebury Way Cycle Path, especially its shaded sections and the canal-side café at Batchworth Lock. The historical charm of places like Stocker's Lock and Stone Bridge is also a highlight. For those visiting Ruislip Lido, the relaxing atmosphere, bird-watching, and amenities like the narrow-gauge train are frequently praised.
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Ebury Way Cycle Path features a wooden hut café at Batchworth Lock, known for its bacon sandwiches. The Batchworth Lock Canal Centre also has a small outdoor café. If you venture towards Aldenham, the 17th-century Round Bush pub is noted for good food. Ruislip Lido also has several places to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
The Rickmansworth Canal Festival is an annual event coordinated by the Rickmansworth Waterways Trust, centered around the Batchworth Lock Canal Centre. It's a major highlight in the area, celebrating the Grand Union Canal and offering various activities and entertainment.
Yes, many paths in Batchworth are suitable for leisurely strolls. The paths around the Rickmansworth Aquadrome and along the Grand Union Canal are generally flat and accessible. The Ebury Way Cycle Path is also a flat, traffic-free route that is great for easy walks. You can find several easy hiking routes in the Easy hikes around Batchworth guide, such as the "Batchworth, Bury & Stockers Lake loop via Grand Union Canal".
Many of the natural areas around Batchworth are dog-friendly. The walking paths in the Rickmansworth Aquadrome and along the Grand Union Canal are popular for dog walking. While Ruislip Lido is generally dog-friendly, be mindful of other visitors, especially on busy days, and keep dogs on leads where necessary.
Beyond the lakes and rivers, you can find the River Chess Stepping Stones and Weir. This spot features a lovely little weir and stepping stones, sometimes called 'Steps of Heaven,' offering a unique natural feature to visit. The various lakes also provide scenic viewpoints, particularly at the Rickmansworth Aquadrome.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: