The Withey Beds is a Local Nature Reserve in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. It is one of the few remaining wetlands in Hertfordshire, offering a variety of habitats and supporting some fascinating plants and animals including birds and insects characteristic of swamp and fen. It is managed by Three Rivers District Council and the Countryside Management Service, with the help of The Friends of The Withey Beds (who welcome new members).
“Withey Bed” is an old English term used to describe the growing of different species of willow for coppicing. Such beds formed an important part of local village economies, supplying poles for basketwork, thatching, firewood and many other uses.
Today, The Withey Beds is still managed using traditional techniques. The rotational coppicing of willow preserves the character of the site, and grazing with cattle, or cutting and removing vegetation within the field, help to halt encroaching scrub, and allow wildlife to continue to flourish.
UPDATE – BOARDWALK CURRENTLY CLOSED
Autumn 2025 – We regret to inform members and visitors that the Withey Beds boardwalk remains closed as a result of a fallen tree damaging access at the western end of the structure. The FoWB management team have continued discussions with Three Rivers District Council regarding repairs. The FoWB team are thankful to a number of councillors who have taken the time to visit the site over the past months to see the issues first hand and are supporting TRDC and the FoWB’s in identifying a solution. Please revisit this site for updates.
