Ashridge Estate

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

More about this place

Summer at Ashridge 2018

Riders on the a fun ride at Ashridge Herts
Big Camp 2015 at Ashridge Herts
Three of the five women who have made their mark at Ashridge

Take to the hills for our Ashridge fun horse ride, on June 17 

On this fun ride you will be able to ride over parts of the estate not normally open to horses - with spectacular views to boot.

Come camping at Ashridge this summer 

Once again we are inviting campers to enjoy our estate by camping overnight on Meadleys Meadow.

Voices: Women of influence at Ashridge 

Highlighting women from the past 200 years who had an impact on the Ashridge Estate as part of the Trust's Women and Power programme.

The far corners of Ashridge

Bridgewater Monument 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 at its best in 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 summer 2018

Two people and their dogs walk down a track

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.

Ivinghoe Beacon is the site of an Iron-age hill-fort and commands stunning views across the Vale of Aylesbury.

Walk the Chalk 

Discover the beauty and rich natural environment of the chalk hills at Ivinghoe Beacon. Follow a route designed to showcase the variety of natural features and history of this iconic landmark.

Upcoming events

See all events

Voices: Women of Influence at Ashridge

Fri 25 May 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.

Half term trail and crafts

Mon 28 May 2018
10:00-16:00
Follow honey bee's trail through the woods and create a buzz with your own matching bee craft in the Visitor Centre.

Gentle Stroll - Ashridge House Gardens

Thu 07 Jun 2018
14:30-16:30
Join our knowledgeable walk leader for a gentle stroll through the gardens at Ashridge House.

Totally Batty Walk

Fri 08 Jun 2018
20:30-22:00
See if you can spot a bat on this fascinating walk with one of our rangers

Walk the Chalk

Sat 09 Jun 2018
10:30-16:00
Discover the beauty and rich natural environment of the chalk hills at Ivinghoe Beacon. Follow a family-friendly route designed to showcase the variety of natural features and history of this rare habitat.

Fun Ride for Horse Owners

Sun 17 Jun 2018
09:00-12:00
Enjoy a two to three hour way-marked ride for horse-owners through some of Ashridge's most beautiful landscapes.
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Ashridge Estate

Our work

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Ashridge Estate

Eating and shopping

A visitor enjoying a traditional scone with jam and cream at one of the National Trust tea-rooms

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.

Kitchenware from the National Trust's spring collection

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
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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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