Ashridge Estate

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

More about this place

Boys making a den from twigs and branches

Summer holiday activities at Ashridge  

Come along during the summer holidays and join one of our Ashridge Adventurer sessions - a chance to take part in fun outdoor activities for families.

A view of woods at Ashridge in May

Exploring Ashridge 

There are many ways to take in some of Ashridge's 5000 acres. We have miles of footpaths and bridleways to keep walkers, cyclists and horse riders busy.

Golf buggy at Ashridge, Herts

Accessibility at Ashridge 

We’ve tried to make the outdoors as accessible as possible at Ashridge.

Children playing at Ashridge, Herts

Family Fun at Ashridge 

There's plenty of family fun to had at Ashridge

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?

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 

Summer fun

Playing at Ashridge Herts

Summer events at Ashridge 

Embrace the sun this summer and join us at Ashridge for lots of fun events. From horse riders to dog lovers and families with excited kids, there's plenty on offer.

Child drawing at Ashridge, Herts

Junior Rangers at Ashridge 

Keep curious kids engaging with nature throughout the summer by buying our Junior Rangers pack.

Upcoming events

See all events

Ashridge Adventurers

Tue 27 Aug 2019
10:30-12:00
Join us for either a morning or afternoon session of led family activities and crafts. Learn more about Ashridge's animals and plants while exploring the estate.

Volunteer open day

Sun 01 Sep 2019
10:00-15:00
Find out more about volunteering opportunities on the estate, from welcoming visitors to running our mobility vehicle service, there's plenty of things to try.

Gentle Stroll - Golden Valley

Tue 10 Sep 2019
10:30-12:30
Join our knowledgeable volunteers for a gentle stroll through 'Capability' Brown's Golden Valley.

Ashridge in autumn walk

Sat 12 Oct 2019
10:00-14:00
A guided walk through Ashridge at one of the most scenic times of year. Enjoy some a kaleidoscope of warming autumn colour as the leaves start to fall.

Autumn photography workshops

Sat 12 Oct 2019
10:00-16:00
Join local photographer Lyndsey Abercromby to learn how best to capture Ashridge's autumnal hues with your camera. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.

Gentle Stroll - Deer rut

Wed 16 Oct 2019
10:30-12:30
Join our knowledgeable volunteers for a gentle walk to search for fallow deer during the rutting season.
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Ashridge Estate

Our work

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Ashridge Estate

Eating and shopping

Girl at outdoor cafe 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.

Prepare your summer garden with our gardening tools and accessories

Visit our centre and shop 

Come inside and see what we have to offer this summer. There's gifts, cards, food, homeware, books and an extensive local range to find the perfect gift.

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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
Wildflowers on Ivinghoe Beacon at Ashridge, Bucks

Summer in the countryside at Ashridge 

The hills are alive with the sound of birds, smell of wildflowers and sight of fluttering butterflies. Take a wander and experience our wildlife at its best.

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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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