10k Run Rickmansworth: Scenic Ebury Way to Watford

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Ebury Way provides a flat, fast, and remarkably scenic 9.9km corridor between Rickmansworth and Watford, making it a favorite for local runners seeking a traffic-free session. As an "out and back" or point-to-point route, it follows a former railway line, meaning the gradient is almost entirely level with a negligible 11m ascent. The surface is roughly 55% paved, blending smooth asphalt with well-maintained gravel paths that cut through lush wetlands and cross the River Colne and River Gade. Whether you are aiming for a tempo run or a steady recovery jog, the straight tracking and natural canopy offer a refreshing escape from the urban hustle of the Three Rivers district.

Steeped in transport history, this route follows the path of the Rickmansworth branch of the Watford and Rickmansworth Railway, which opened in 1862 and was once championed by Lord Ebury. Today, the Ebury Way is a vital part of National Cycle Network Route 6, linking the Grand Union Canal at Rickmansworth to the heart of Watford. Runners will pass through the eastern edge of the Rickmansworth Aquadrome, a site of former gravel pits that now serve as a thriving nature reserve and water sports hub. It is a fantastic example of "Green Infrastructure," repurposing Victorian engineering into a modern sanctuary for biodiversity and fitness enthusiasts alike.