Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

The Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate are maintained by the National Trust. The main centre is located on Dunstable Road near Whipsnade in Bedfordshire and the area is made up of chalk and grassland areas which are great for walking with your kids. It has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and there are walking trails.

What is there to do at the Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate?

Walking around the estate you can enjoy spectacular views of rolling chalk grasslands and a seemingly endless sky in an area of outstanding natural beauty. They often have family-friendly trails available so make sure you enquire when you arrive at the visitor centre.

On the National Trust website, they have a range of downloadable walks from 2 miles to over 6. Their easier walk is marked by numbers and letters and is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. It is a there and back again walk so make sure you reward yourselves in the cafe. In the warmer months, they usually have a sports village at the centre where families can try out football, cricket, table tennis, volleyball, athletics and more.

Why not pick up their Active Explorer’s pack and go on an adventure in nature? With activities such as orienteering, den building, butterfly watching, bird spotting and wild art, it’s the perfect way to get the kids connecting with nature. Each bag contains a notebook, spotter sheets and a magnifying glass ready to go exploring. Pick up a pack from the visitor centre at Dunstable Downs, cost £8.

Further Information Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks. You are welcome to picnic in the park.

What are the main things to do?

Picturesque estate with a number of walking trails, family-friendly trails and activities during the school holidays. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

The centre and estate are free for everyone to enjoy.

Is there parking?

Parking is free, for the day for members of the National Trust. Non-members will have to pay £3.50 for all-day parking.

When are they open?

Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate is open all year round, some facilities may not be open all year round. Please visit their website for up-to-date information.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome in most areas of the estate. There are two clearly marked places where we ask visitors not to take their dogs: the ground-nesting birds, and kite-flying areas. Their website and visitor centre can provide further information.

Are they accessible?

Information on accessibility

Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
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