Ashridge Estate Boundary Trail - North
This circular walk includes some of the outstanding features of the northern half of the estate, including Ivinghoe Beacon, Incombe Hole, ancient woodlands and dramatic scenery. For this route, follow the Boundary Trail circular white signs, with green arrows pointing you in the right direction. You can complete the entire Boundary Trail by combining with the Ashridge Boundary Trail - South for a full day's walk. Please allow plenty of time to pause and enjoy the scenery.
Partially closed
The stairs on step five are currently being repaired. Unfortunately, there is no alternative way around, leading to a partial closure on this route. We are sorry for the inconvenience.
Total steps: 8
Total steps: 8
Start point
Ashridge Estate visitor centre by Bridgewater Monument, grid ref: SP970130
Step 1
From the Visitor Centre, head past the Bridgewater Monument to the start of the nearby major track (Duncombe Terrace). Here you will find a post marking the start of the trail.
Step 2
About 150 metres along Duncombe Terrace by a seat, turn left and then proceed downhill. Pass through stables and then cross a road and proceed alongside a small wood then a golf course, both on your left hand side.
Step 3
Turn right into the woods at Albury Nowers by the sign to the 6th and 16th tees then join the Ridgeway Trail at the steps to your right. Proceed towards Pitstone Hill, eventually arriving at a small car park.
Step 4
Cross the road and continue, soon climbing back up to the ridge and through a gate onto a major track that eventually goes down steps to a road. Follow the signs and arrive at Ivinghoe Beacon.
Step 5
Head east along the ridge and just before a tumulus turn right and go downhill. Turn right at the bottom on a track running through agricultural fields, out onto the grassland and into a wood (the Coombe), at the end of which is a steep climb up steps to Wards Hurst Farm (these steps are currently closed).
Step 6
Go straight on at the farm. Follow the path for 0.6 miles and then turn right at the end of the woodland and head downhill to the road. Cross over the road and follow the waymarked signs carefully through this zig-zag section. Note: If you wish to complete the entire boundary trail you now need to see Ashridge Boundary Trail South and continue from step 2.
Step 7
Turn right onto the wide footpath and follow for half a mile until you reach a major junction.
Step 8
Take the third footpath exit on the right and follow this path back to the visitor centre.
End point
Ashridge Estate visitor centre by Bridgewater Monument, grid ref: SP970130
Trail map
More near here
Duncombe Terrace walk
Enjoy a gentle walk along the popular Duncombe Terrace, taking in the historic Bridgewater Monument, as well as Ashridge Woods with its ancient trees and varied wildlife.
In the footsteps of Capability Brown
Discover the Golden Valley, a hidden gem of the Ashridge Estate, on this 4.3-mile walk. Designed by the famous 'Capability' Brown this masterpiece ranks among his finest works.
Ivinghoe Hills butterfly walk
Discover how many butterflies you can spot on this easy circular route on the Ivinghoe Hills at Ashridge Estate.
Get in touch
Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Near Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1LT
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Walking in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire
From long forest wanders to a gentle amble to a famous literary hut, these are some of the best walks around Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
Eating and shopping at Ashridge
Discover the shop at Ashridge Estate. It’s through your purchases that we’re able to continue looking after Ashridge Estate for everyone, for ever.
Things to see and do at Ashridge Estate
Ashridge has over 80 miles of pathways 5,000 acres of woodland, from the windmill to Bridgewater Monument and panoramic views of the estate, there’s lots to explore at Ashridge Estate.
Visiting Ashridge with your dog
Ashridge is a two pawprint rated place with over 80 miles of pathways. Find out more here.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.