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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.

Countryside and woodland in Essex

Person walking a dog in a field at Hatfield Forest, Essex
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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.

A child looks through yellow binoculars directly at the camera with a big smile on his face.
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Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood 

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

Sunlight streams through a tree at Rayleigh Mount, Essex
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Rayleigh Mount 

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

Rayleigh, Essex

Fully open today

Countryside and woodland in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Sheep grazing at Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire
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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.

Woodland at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire
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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.

The Easter Chapel at Whipsnade Tree Cathedral, Bedfordshire in spring
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Whipsnade Tree Cathedral 

Discover trees, hedges and shrubs planted in the form of a medieval cathedral.

Dunstable, Bedfordshire

Fully open today
View from Sharpenhoe Clappers, Sharpenhoe, Bedfordshire in July
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Sharpenhoe and Sundon Hills 

Ancient woodland and chalk escarpment with fantastic views

Streatley, Bedfordshire

Fully open today
Morven Park, Hertfordshire
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Morven Park 

20 acres of peaceful parkland located in the heart of Potters Bar

Potters Bar, Hertfordshire

Fully open today