Explore the Northern Chilterns: 4 Wonderful Walks
If you’ve been reading our article, “Sweeping hills and Big Skies” in Outstanding Chilterns Magazine 2023, these are the links to the 4 walks that we recommend, to help you explore the chalk grasslands, villages and nature reserves of the northern Chilterns.
Happy walking and exploring, everyone!
1. Pegsdon Hills and Hoo Bit Nature Reserve
Enjoy spectacular views, with sweeping grass hills and strip lynchets (medieval cultivation terraces).
Try the 3.5 mile Pegsdon and Deacon Hill walk where you can see rare chalkland plants and butterflies, and enjoy some of the best views in the north Chilterns. View the Pegsdon and Deacon Hill walk and map
Alternatively, try a longer 4.5 mile route, which takes in Knocking Hoe Nature Reserve: Pegsdon and Deacon Hill Walk: full route. This steadily climbing walk takes in Deacon Hill’s ancient earthworks, an ancient beech wood and the Knocking Hoe reserve is great for butterflies and wildflowers. Deacon Hill is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
2: Lilley and Warden Hill loop
This 4.8 mile stile-free walk starts from the historic village of Lilley and passes through farmland and chalk downland to the summit of Warden Hill. You’ll be rewarded with far reaching views, wildflowers and butterflies.
3: Sewell Greenway
Following the old railway line between Dunstable and Stanbridgeford, the Sewell Greenway is rich in wildlife and provides a wonderful escape into nature for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, wheelchair ramblers and families with pushchairs in tow.
Grassland and heathland wildlife
While you’re en route, read more about the grassland and heathland plants and wildlife that you might encounter on these walks. These special Chilterns habitats are bursting with wildlife, some of which is incredibly specialist or rare. Read what to look for season by season.
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