Ashridge Estate

Ashridge Estate

Ashridge Estate is maintained by the National Trust and is located near Ringshall, Hertfordshire. There are around 5,000 acres to explore and it’s a great place to enjoy a walk with your family.

What is there to do at Ashridge Estate?

There is an ancient forest situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty plus an impressive 172-step Bridgewater Monument which is a column made of York stone base. You can walk to the top at weekends from April to October, weather permitting. There is a small charge for non-members.

Make sure you pop into the visitor centre as they will be able to help you find a walking route to suit you and they may have extra family-friendly activities that you can take part in. There is also a Wildwood Den natural play area that has been created using Ashridge Estate deadwood.

Also in the estate, there is Pitstone Windmill. This is one of the oldest in Britain. Inside you can explore the workings of the windmill while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding Chiltern countryside. This is open Sundays from May to September.

There are four waymarked walks that you can follow which take in different parts of the estate. These range from a one-mile family stroll to a more adventurous eight-mile hike. They also have over 30 miles of public bridleways that you can cycle on. Maps can be purchased from the visitor centre. Or you can take the four-mile route that is suitable for families and will take you through woodland and commons. This route is marked with red waymarkers and starts near the cafe as you head down the hill.

Further Information

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving food and drinks. You are welcome to bring a picnic.

What are the main things to do?

Vast estate with waymarked walking trails and a cycling route plus a play area, a column you can climb and a windmill to explore. There are toilets and a cafe.