Matthew was pleased to accompany the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Caroline Stock, other councillors, local ramblers and members of the public at the launch of Barnet Council’s Heritage Walks. The walks are designed to provide a gentle stroll of 3 to 6 miles, approximately 5,000 to 10,000 steps, take in buildings and sites of interest and, where possible, use green spaces and footpaths.

Encouraging more people to walk and improve their fitness, the initiative is being promoted by the Mayor. Each route is accompanied by a podcast that can be downloaded and followed by participants in six different parts of Barnet. Matthew walked with the Mayor on the first section of the Hendon to Mill Hill walk.

Matthew said: “I am an enthusiastic walker myself but the Heritage Walks add something more. While they are a great way to improve health, they also allow walkers to learn more about the history of the Borough.

"Starting from the Town Hall in Hendon the ’guide’ explained about the age of the Town Hall, when the University buildings were first constructed, that the graveyard at St Mary’s Church is believed to be the inspiration for ‘Kingstead’ in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and that the Greyhound pub functioned as the location for council meetings before the construction of the Town Hall. It was fascinating stuff!"

For further details and to download the podcasts click here

https://www.barnet.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-heritage-walks