The National Trust

On top of the Chilterns plateau, this is a great focal point for discovering the Ashridge estate, with a visitor centre, shop, café and car parking. The monument which towers overhead was built in 1832 to commemorate the third Duke of Bridgewater, a pioneer of 19th century canal-building. SP971131

This rolling chalk grassland is an important habitat for orchids and butterflies in summer. Standing 250m above sea level, it offers outstanding views over Bucks and Herts from its summit, which was once an Iron Age hill fort. It's also the northern end of the Ridgeway National Trail and Icknield Way. SP963159

This historic parkland was Ashridge's original deer-park. Uncover the Golden Valley, which is really spectacular in the autumn. This is an excellent area for walking, although car parking is limited. SP995125

2,000 acres of atmospheric mature woodland with lots of waymarked trails to explore. Get close to nature here, whether it's the mighty beech trees, fascinating fungi, fallow deer or birds like nuthatch. If lucky, you might hear woodpeckers too. SP975130

Elevated location for one of England's oldest surviving post-mills (an early form of windmill). Dating from 1627, it was restored by volunteers in the 1960s and is now open to the public on summer Sunday afternoons. Fantastic views across the Tring gap and vale of Aylesbury. SP945158