Sandy Circular via RSPB Nature reserve, Potton Windmill & Greensand Ridge - 19km

Join us on a circular hike in the Bedfordshire Countryside, via Sandy RSPB nature reserve, Potton Windmill & Greensand Ridge.

Event Details:
- Grade 2-3: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: 11.5miles / 18.5 km
- Elevation Gain: 620 ft / 190 m
- Walking Time: Approx. 5 hours
- Start/Finish: Sandy Station, Bedfordshire
- Accessible by Train - Yes
- Meet Time: 9:20 AM | Start Walking: 9:30 AM | Finish: Around 2:30/3:00 PM
- Price: £12.50 per person (plus Meetups Booking fee) OR pay by CARD

The Hike:
This scenic circular route begins in Sandy and takes us through a diverse mix of woodland, heathland, and open countryside. We'll start by heading into the RSPB Sandy Warren Nature Reserve, where you may spot a variety of birdlife and enjoy peaceful trails through pine and broadleaf woodland.

From there, the route continues through Sandy Heath, with its gently undulating landscape, before reaching the historic Potton Windmill, a striking landmark nestled among fields. The walk then winds through the charming village of Everton, offering a perfect spot for a mid-walk break.

The return journey follows part of the Greensand Ridge Walk, offering far-reaching views and a mix of shaded woodland and open tracks, before looping back into Sandy. Expect a moderately long but mostly gentle walk with a mix of terrain and good paths throughout ideal for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness looking to explore the Bedfordshire countryside.

Highlights include:

RSPB Sandy Warren Nature Reserve - A beautiful, peaceful area of heath and woodland managed by the RSPB. Great for spotting birds, especially woodpeckers, nuthatches, and even occasional birds of prey.

Sandy Heath - Open heathland and pine woodland with wide, sandy paths. Potton Windmill - A striking 19th-century post mill (privately owned but visible from the path). It's a rare and picturesque landmark in the middle of open countryside great for a photo stop.

Where to meet:
Sandy Station Car Park Sandy Station Sandy Bedfordshire SG19 1AW

Grade 2-3: Moderate to Challenging
This hike is a step up from our moderate routes, ideal for women who are building stamina and looking to challenge themselves a bit more. The 18.5 km distance puts it in the challenging range, but the terrain and pace make it achievable if you're comfortable being on your feet for several hours and ready for a longer adventure. A great in-between walk for those progressing from Grade 2 to Grade 3.

What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.

Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058)

Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.

Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18.

Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)

Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs