Ashridge Estate

Ancient trees, rolling chalk downlands and lush meadows in an area of outstanding natural beauty

More about this place

Post Christmas walk at Ashridge Herts

Christmas at Ashridge 

The 2018 festive season at Ashridge is filled with fun for all the family. Whether you come along for one of our exciting Christmas events or for a wintery Christmas walk, there’s plenty to get you feeling the spirit of the season here on the estate.

The far corners of Ashridge

Bridgewater Monument in winter at Ashridge herts
Ivinghoe Beacon is the site of an Iron-age hill-fort and commands stunning views across the Vale of Aylesbury.
Golden Valley in winter at Ashridge Herts

The Bridgewater Monument 

Built in 1832, the Bridgewater Monument commemorates the third Duke of Bridgewater, also known as the Canal Duke. Do you dare climb the 172 spiral steps to the top?

The Ivinghoe Beacon  

Climb to the spot where an Iron Age hill fort once stood and gaze across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire. This area of the estate in rich in history, ecology and archaeology.

The Golden Valley  

Stroll through the Golden Valley, one of 'Capability' Brown's finest creations. Once part of Ashridge House's back garden, this area of the estate offers a chance for quiet reflection.

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Ashridge Estate

What's on 

Whats on this winter

Autumn dog walkers at Ashridge Herts

Self-led walks at Ashridge 

We have many wonderful walks to get you out and exploring the estate. Whether its to fill an hour, or a day there is plenty of choice.

Old Copse on the Ashridge Estate Herts

How will you explore Ashridge today? 

There are many ways to take in some of Ashridge's 5000 acres. Hundreds of footpaths and countless miles of bridleways are sure to keep you busy. Follow in the footsteps of the Iron Age farmers, Romans and World War II soldiers who walked these same paths.

A dog out for a winter stroll

Santa Paws walk at Ashridge Estate 

Dress up in your most Christmassy outfit and bring your pooch to our Santa Paws Walk. The walk features a very special guest - he has a white beard, a big belly and a bag full of presents. Any guesses?

Upcoming events

See all events

Voices: Women of Influence at Ashridge

Wed 21 Nov 2018
10:00-17:00
From 3 March 2018 - February 2019 the exhibition Voices: Women of Influence at Ashridge explores the impact of five women on the Ashridge Estate.

Children's Christmas Trail

Sat 01 Dec 2018
10:00-15:00
Bring your children to Ashridge for our 12 Dens of Ashridge trail. There's a special Christmas gift for every little helper.

Christmas Pudding Walk

Mon 03 Dec 2018
10:00-16:00
A self-led walk, following the puddings on this way-marked route through the woodland.

Santa Paws walk

Sun 09 Dec 2018
11:00-12:00
Bring your dog and join Father Christmas on a walk around the meadow.

Wreath making workshops - Sold Out

Mon 10 Dec 2018
13:00-15:30
Create your very own wreath using greenery gleaned from the estate.

Jingle Ponies - Cancelled

Sun 16 Dec 2018
11:00-12:00
Back by popular demand - our parade of some local horses (and their owners) in fancy dress for the Christmas festivities.
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Ashridge Estate

Our work

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Ashridge Estate

Eating and shopping

Girl with hot drink at Ashridge, Herts

Visit the Brownlow Café (not NT) 

The Brownlow Café (not NT) is the perfect pit stop to refuel after exploring the estate. Why not try one of the daily specials, or indulge in a tempting scone? Please note that only outdoor seating is available.

A group of friends enjoying a picnic

Bring a picnic  

Ashridge is full of picturesque spots to enjoy a tasty picnic. From shady woodland to sunny meadows, you are sure to find a pleasant place to sit down for lunch.

A man grills chicken on a barbecue

Barbecues at Ashridge  

Chill out, kick back, and get some food on the grill. Monument Drive is the perfect backdrop for good food, friends and fun.

Home fragrance from the National Trust Christmas shop

Visit our centre and shop 

Come inside and see what we have to offer

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Ashridge Estate

Wildlife

A grassy path through the woods

Abundant wildlife to be found

It's a wildlife lovers paradise at Ashridge - there are so many species to be found amongst the grassy hills and in the woods. Skylarks soar through the skies in the spring and fallow deer bucks face off during autumn for the best mates.

Discover our wildlife highlights
Ancient settlements on Ivinghoe Beacon at Ashridge Estate

A brief history of Ashridge

From Iron Age earthworks, monastries and palaces to First World War practice trenches, Ashridge has a history to appeal to everyone.

Explore the history
Large fallow buck at Ashridge Herts

History of deer at Ashridge 

The fallow deer are an integral part of the landscape at Ashridge and a much-loved feature of this historic estate.

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Ashridge Estate

Groups

Children in wellies sitting on a bench

Learning at Ashridge  

Woodlands, meadows and ponds create an ideal location for students to learn outside the classroom. Choose from a variety of led programmes that will inspire your students and bring topics to life. Each educational trip includes a complimentary pre-visit for teachers as well as exclusive use of our visitor centre classroom.

Fun runners running through an avenue of trees

Organised Groups 

Ashridge is a popular destination for group visits and organised events. All groups must touch base with the Visitor Centre when planning a trip.

Hikers stopping to read a map

Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions 

Our miles of crisscrossing footpaths are great for running DofE expeditions of any level.

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Ashridge Estate

Places to stay

A view of Chilterns Bunkhouse, at Ashridge Estate
Ashridge Estate   Hertfordshire

Chilterns Bunkhouse

This converted barn is nestled in the heart of Ashridge, and offers accommodation for up to sixteen people. Enjoy a peaceful woodland setting known for its ancient trees, herd of fallow deer and striking vistas around every corner.

Come stay with us
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