A flock of Brent geese silhouetted in flight | © ©National Trust Images/Justin Minns

Countryside in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Step into the great outdoors and explore an ancient forest, acres of parkland or hidden countryside spaces around Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

Trees in autumn mist at Hatfield Forest, Essex

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Hatfield Forest

Visit a royal medieval hunting ground with mighty ancient oaks, fallow deer and wildlife aplenty. Enjoy a walk followed by a treat from the Forest Café in the beautiful surroundings of the Georgian lake and Shell House.

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Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood

With resident nightingales and adders, Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood offer a diverse wildlife environment. Why not try a geocache GPS trail with the family to discover it all?

A view up the path towards the hill at Rayleigh Mount, Essex

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Rayleigh Mount

The site of a medieval castle, now a green oasis for wildlife

Sheep grazing at Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire

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Dunstable Downs

Discover slow-worms and mini beasties on the chalk grasslands, look out for red kites or fly your own kite from the wind-swept ridge.

Woodland at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire

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Ashridge Estate

Ashridge has over 80 miles of pathways 5,000 acres of woodland, from the windmill to Bridgewater Monument and panoramic views of the estate, there’s lots to explore at Ashridge Estate.