1.25miles (2km)

St Margarets and Stanstead Abbotts face each other here across the narrow river at the start of this short towpath section, where the new riverside homes opposite soon give way to countryside as the path bends under a high by-pass. The climax at Rye House is a 400-year-old pub with an unusual frontage and the historic Rye House Gatehouse alongside a nature reserve.

Refreshments
St Margarets: Jolly Fisherman pub by river. Open all day.
Stanstead Abbotts: Bridge Shop, High Street. Open to at least 6pm.
Stanstead Abbotts: The Red Lion, High Street (east end). Open all day. Food 12-2.20pm .

Transport
St Margarets: National Rail.Rye House: National Rail.

Tourist Information
Hertford: 10 Market Street (01992 584322).

Map
OS Explorer 174 (Epping Forest & Lee Valley).