Bedfordshire Ridge & Sharpenhoe Clappers Circular Hike - Chilterns AONB - 18km


Details
Join us for a spectacular day exploring the Chilterns AONB from Harlington, taking in panoramic ridges, chalk grasslands, and one of Bedfordshire’s most iconic viewpoints – Sharpenhoe Clappers.
Start/Finish: Harlington Station, Bedfordshire
Distance: 18 km
Time: Approx. 6 hours (including breaks)
Total Ascent: 300 m
Grade: 2.5 – Moderate - Challenging
Start Time: 9.30am
End Time: 3.30am
Cost P/P £15.00 Plus Meet up fee (Or pay direct HERE)
The Hike:
Starting from Harlington, we follow peaceful country lanes and field paths before a steady climb into Sundon Hills Country Park, where wide views stretch across the rolling North Chilterns countryside. Our route takes us along chalk escarpments rich in wildflowers and birdlife, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
We’ll explore the dramatic hilltop of Sharpenhoe Clappers, steeped in history and surrounded by ancient woodland, before looping back via quiet farmland tracks and village paths. Expect a mix of open ridge walking, woodland trails, and rural lanes, with a few short but steep climbs to keep things interesting.
Highlights:
- Sundon Hills Country Park – Chalk downland with stunning open views.
- Sharpenhoe Clappers – An Iron Age hillfort and one of the best viewpoints in the Chilterns.
- Chalk Ridge Paths – Perfect for spotting late-summer butterflies and birds of prey.
- Quaint Villages & Farmland – A peaceful slice of rural Bedfordshire
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.
Our events are advertised on other platforms, the number of "guest" booked on include attendees from other platforms. If the walk is full, you can join the website waiting list here
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.

Bedfordshire Ridge & Sharpenhoe Clappers Circular Hike - Chilterns AONB - 18km