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Beautiful landscape of open downland and woods

This magnificent and varied countryside estate runs across the borders of Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, along the main ridge of the Chiltern Hills.

There are 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres) of woodlands, commons and chalk downland supporting a rich variety of wildlife and offering splendid walks through outstanding scenery.

The focal point is the Bridgewater Monument, erected in 1832 to the Duke of Bridgewater. Ivinghoe Beacon, at the end of the Ridgeway, provides wonderful views of the surrounding landscape, inhabited from pre-history to the current day.

'Capability' Brown, the famous landscape designer, worked at Ashridge in the18th century. His greatest achievement here was the creation of the Golden Valley to the northeast of Ashridge house.

Ideas for walks and family days out can be found at the visitor centre.

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