Ashridge Estate

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

More about this place

Two children running ahead of grandparents at Ashridge, Herts

February half term at Ashridge 

Help our sleepy hedgehog get back to his nest by following our February half term trail on Mon 18 – Fri 22 February, 10am-3pm.

The far corners of Ashridge

Bridgewater Monument in winter at Ashridge herts
Ivinghoe Beacon in snow at Ashridge, Herts
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?

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

Three women walking in winter 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.

Boy in winter clothes ready to explore

Tick off some of your 50 things at Ashridge this winter 

The trees may have lost their leaves and lots of our woodland friends have gone away to hibernate but there’s still plenty of your 50 things to be ticked off the list this winter.

Upcoming events

See all events

Voices: Women of Influence at Ashridge

Sun 17 Feb 2019
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.

Half term trail and craft

Mon 18 Feb 2019
10:00-15:00
Head into the visitor centre to complete your craft before following our hedgehog-themed trail around the woods.

Exhibition: Citizen Science

Sat 30 Mar 2019
10:00-17:00
Come along to our exhibition about citizen science and wildlife surveying, before heading out onto the estate and having a go yourself.

Exhibition Opening: Citizen Science

Sat 30 Mar 2019
11:00-12:00
Come along to the opening of our new exhibition about citizen science and wildlife surveying, before heading out onto the estate and having a go yourself.

Easter Crafts

Mon 08 Apr 2019
10:00-16:00
Come along and make your bird themed Easter craft to celebrate the return of spring.

Gentle Stroll - Signs of Spring

Wed 10 Apr 2019
10:30-12:30
Join our volunteers to look for signs of spring close to the visitor centre on this gentle guided walk.
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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.

Curl up with something cosy with our range of UK-made throws and blankets

Visit our centre and shop 

Come inside and see what we have to offer this winter.

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Ashridge Estate

Wildlife

Chiff chaff in a tree at Ashridge, Herts

Wildlife all around

It's a wildlife lovers paradise at Ashridge - there are so many species to be on the grassy hills and in the expansive woods. The perfect place to use your binoculars.

Discover our wildlife highlights
Ivinghoe Beacon at Ashridge, Bucks

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
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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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