Hello, Berko!
February is here, the mornings are getting lighter and there's a chance you might actually see the sun this week.
Rain or shine, we’ve got some walks to try if you're feeling adventurous and the usual round-up of what's happening around town.
On the map this week:
Take a Hike Out Berkhamsted Way
What's happenin' this week
Sports, dogs & music
Let's get into it.
Take a Hike ‘Out Berkhamsted Way’
Did you know that Berkhamsted appears in George Orwell's 1984?
"D'you know what that little girl of mine did last Saturday, when her troop was on a hike out Berkhamsted way? She got two other girls to go with her, slipped off from the hike, and spent the whole afternoon following a strange man. They kept on his tail for two hours, right through the woods, and then, when they got into Amersham, handed him over to the patrols."
There's something cool about Berko being mentioned —even in passing— in Orwell's novel.
What was "out Berkhamsted way" in 1948 when Orwell was writing? The Common, probably. Maybe the woods towards Ashridge. He doesn't specify, but it's nice to think the landscape he had in mind is still there to walk through.
Did you also know that Berkhamsted Town Council has created five audio trails that likely take you through those same routes? I came across the website this week and it’s something of a time warp itself.
If you're looking for something active to do this week, below are three walks that are well worth your time.