XX 22 A footpath leads up the hill from opposite ,, Ellesborough church (HP17 0XG) – not the track, but the path by the telegraph pole. The Prime Minister’s Chequers is just behind the hill. 10 mins, 51.7490, -0.7925 z6 19 DUNSTABLE DOWNS RIDGE Highest point in Bedfordshire, with stunning views towards Oxfordshire. The surrounding sunken pathways are a good place to find orchids. Take a kite. Car park a mile W of Whipsnade (LU6 2LF) ,, on the B4540 on the R. Follow path uphill and then NE away from road. 15 mins, 51.8576, -0.5532 z6 20 WATLINGTON HILL Panoramic views over the Oxfordshire Vale. Sunken lanes and ancient yews. Look for red kites and summer butterflies. Leave Christmas Common dir Watlington ,, (W). Find car park and footpath access on L, opposite Watlington Hill Farm (OX49 5HS). Try the Fox & Hounds in Christmas Common for refreshment (OX49 5HL, 01491 612599). 1 min, 51.6359, -0.9791 6z XX 22
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North Chilterns
ancient woodland 21 DANCERS END, FUNGI Rugged reserve tucked deep in the Chilterns and surrounded by sunken tracks. Overgrown hollows are filled with autumn fungi, and the rich wildlife includes tawny owls. Follow B4009 ½ mile W (dir Wendover) ,, from A41 Tring junction. Take first L (signed Dancers End). Follow 1.8 miles to the old pumping station on L (Bottom Rd, HP23 6LB). Signed trails lead from here. 1 min, 51.7708, -0.6902 04 22 FRITHSDEN BEECHES, ASHRIDGE These magnificent knotted beech trees feauture in several Hollywood films, including Harry Potter. Beyond, sunken drovers’ paths wind through the woods and commons of Ashridge Estate. Bluebells in spring, butterflies in summer, rutting deer in autumn. From Berkamstead Golf Club (HP4 2QB) drive ,, dir Ashridge and Frithsden, passing a memorial on your R. Follow managed footpath (the Chiltern Way) on L for ¾ mile to the beeches. 10 mins, 51.7810, -0.5551 b3