Hike 9 Miles of the Ancient Ridgeway Path via Ivinghoe Beacon

Start the year with us on a classic Chilterns hike along the Ridgeway to Ivinghoe Beacon. Our nine mile walk takes in fine open views along the ridge before heading through ancient woodland to the famous Bridgewater Monument. Later we visit pretty villages and a nice country pub before catching our train back into London.

The Ridgeway is an ancient trail in use for at least 5,000 years and at one time stretched from the Dorset Coast to the Norfolk Wash. High up on the ridge travellers avoided the wet ground below and we hope to repeat this trick as we make our way to the Beacon, pictured.

From here we turn towards the Bridgewater Monument, commemorating Francis Egerton the 3rd Duke of Bridgewater: Aristocrat, industrialist and builder of the first true canals. If its dry and for a small fee to the NT we can climb inside this massive granite tower and ascend all of its 172 steps to the viewing gallery at the top. You can see over the treetops and across the estate, even to the tall buildings of Canary Wharf on a clear day.

In More Detail;

Meet at 10:00 by the ticket office inside Euston Railway Station. Derek will be there a bit early and will be stood at the ticket office.

The group should take the 10:24 train from Euston that arrives into Tring at 11:02. You are welcome to meet the group at Tring and there is a car park at the station - but if you are meeting at Tring please arrive ahead of us as the group can't wait for latecomers once we are off the train.

It is a picnic lunch so make sure you buy a sandwich or bring a pack-up. Also remember you need water and a waterproof. There is a pub for good food and a drink if you like near the end.

Trains back are twice per hour and direct. I can't be sure what time we will be back into London as it depends on the speed of the group on the day, probably best to be flexible and don't make too many plans - just enjoy your day out hiking!

Cost:

The Trip Cost for your guided day hike is £5 - this does not include your train fare which at full price will be £21.20 on an off peak day return from Euston to Tring. Many people have rail cards which bring the ticket cost down but you will also group together with fellow Explorers at the station and should buy group saver tickets at a third off the full price (therefore approx £13.80).

The trip cost is non refundable.

Things To Bring:

Picnic lunch, water, suitable shoes and clothing including waterproof, your camera, some money for food and drink if you would like to stop in the pub at the end. (If you are going to the pub probably best to bring a torch if you have one)

RISK NOTICE:

Please note there are risks associated with all outdoor activity, we will lead the way on the hike but are not responsible for your health or wellbeing. This is a nine mile hike and although we are not one of the fast groups we ask that you are reasonably fit and have suitable clothing and footwear for the walk. The terrain may be uneven or slippery and therefore fashion boots, shoes or boots with heels, smooth leather soles, fashion trainers or plimsoles are NOT suitable. (This list is not exhaustive). You should be capable of walking at 2.5 miles per hour and in general seek to stay with the main group. Also please avoid doing anything that would put you or other members of the group in danger. If you have a pre-existing medical condition please seek appropriate medical advice before joining and ensure you have brought any personal medication. If bringing a guest please ensure that they have read this notice and walk description before they agree to come. This walk is not suitable for children or pet dogs.

I will post a weather forecast the night before

Hope you can come

Best wishes

Tom