5k Run Three Rivers: Scenic Loop Around Stokers Lake

Route Overview & Local Insights

This refreshing 5.2km circuit offers a serene escape through the heart of the Colne Valley Regional Park. Starting from Riverside Drive, you'll traverse a mix of well-maintained woodland trails and paved paths that loop around the shimmering waters of Stocker’s Lake and Bury Lake. With zero elevation gain, this is a perfectly flat, "pancake-style" route ideal for runners looking to maintain a steady tempo or beginners wanting to transition from road to light trail. You can expect a gentle, multi-lake experience that feels worlds away from the hustle of the nearby M25, featuring crisp air and occasional sightings of the local birdlife that call these nature reserves home.

Located in the historic Three Rivers district, these lakes are more than just a scenic backdrop; they are a vital part of the area's industrial heritage, having originated as gravel pits during the 1920s. Today, Stocker’s Lake is managed by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and stands as one of the oldest nature reserves in the Colne Valley. Local runners often favor this loop for its natural shade during the summer months and the community feel of the Batchworth Lake area, where you’ll frequently see canal boats and rowers. It’s a quintessential Hertfordshire run that beautifully blends local history with well-preserved ecology.