Sheep grazing on Dunstable Downs, with grassy fields below — Sheep on Dunstable Downs | © National Trust

Countryside in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Step into the great outdoors and explore an ancient forest, acres of parkland or hidden countryside spaces around Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

Hatfield Forest

Visit a royal medieval hunting ground with mighty ancient oaks, fallow deer and wildlife aplenty. Enjoy a walk followed by a treat from the Forest Café in the beautiful surroundings of the Georgian lake and Shell House.

View across the corner of the lake on a bright sunny day in summer, with rowing boats on the lake, a jetty and a backdrop of trees

Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood

With resident nightingales and adders, Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood offer a diverse wildlife environment.

A child looks through yellow binoculars directly at the camera with a big smile on his face.

Rayleigh Mount

The site of a medieval castle, now a green oasis for wildlife

Dunstable Downs

Discover slow-worms and mini beasties on the chalk grasslands, look out for red kites or fly your own kite from the wind-swept ridge.

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.