Spectacular views of rolling chalk grasslands and a seemingly endless sky in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Dunstable Downs is open and we look forward to welcoming you. Here you'll find everything you need to know about what to expect from your visit.
Look down on a breathtaking landscape, sculpted over time, decorated by nature and enjoyed by generations.
Stand on top of Dunstable Downs for a view that will simply take your breath away. There are several Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designated for the quality of the chalk grasslands.
As well as two Scheduled Ancient Monuments (Five Knolls and Medieval Rabbit Warrens) there are many other historical features and the site has much to offer.
There are miles of footpaths across the chalk grasslands of the Downs including several circular walks. The Downs have a fascinating history and an abundance of plants and wildlife.
Dunstable Downs is within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is the highest point in Bedfordshire.
The wind-swept ridge provides ideal conditions for a variety of air sports, especially kite flying. On calmer days it's the ideal site to enjoy the view and a picnic.
Please note: Chilterns Gateway Centre is owned by Central Bedfordshire Council and managed by the National Trust.
Most of our places run the Gift Aid on Entry scheme at their admission points.
Under this scheme, if you're not a member you have the choice of two entry tickets:
If the place runs Gift Aid on Entry, we'll offer you a clear choice between the Gift Aid Admission prices and the Standard Admission prices at the admission point. It's entirely up to you which ticket you choose.
Gift Aid Admission includes a 10 per cent or more voluntary donation. Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
An extra £1 paid under the scheme can be worth over £3 to the National Trust as shown below:
| Gift Aid | Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount paid by visitor | £11.00 | £10.00 |
| Tax refund from Government* | £2.75 | £0.00 |
| Total received by the National Trust | £13.75 | £10.00 |
*Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
