Dunstable circular walk approx 17 miles

Join us for a scenic and invigorating 17-mile circular hike through the breathtaking Chilterns countryside, taking in some of Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire’s finest landmarks. This full-day hike is perfect for experienced walkers looking for a varied and rewarding route.

We’ll start and finish near Dunstable, winding our way through charming villages, chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and open downland. Along the way, we’ll explore:

Totternhoe Knolls – an early highlight, with sweeping views and a chance to see the ruins of Totternhoe Castle.

Ivinghoe Beacon – one of the highest points in the Chiltern Hills, offering panoramic vistas and a perfect lunch spot. Part of the Ridgeway National Trail, this spot is rich in history and natural beauty.

Dunstable Downs – enjoy the open skies and gentle slopes of this iconic chalk escarpment, with potential sightings of gliders and kites above.

Whipsnade Tree Cathedral – a peaceful, unique stop where trees are planted in the layout of a traditional cathedral – a serene place for a breather and reflection.

This hike features a mix of terrains: grassy ridges, woodland trails, and rolling farmland. Expect a few steady climbs and some muddy patches depending on weather, so good footwear is essential. We’ll move at a moderate pace with breaks for snacks, lunch, and photos.

📍 Distance: 19 miles (29 km)
⏱️ Duration: 8–9 hours (including breaks)
📈 Grade: Moderate with hills
🥾 Suitable for: Fit walkers with recent experience of long hikes

Let’s soak in the scenery, enjoy good company, and make the most of this Chilterns gem!

Outward Travel: Take the train departing 09.21 AM from London St Pancras to Luton arr 09:56 and then the bus A fron Luton station interchange stand 9 to Dunstable departing 10:07, or bus X2 at 10:15, or bus B at 10:19.Buy a day return ticket to Luton with Busplus. The cost is £9.65 +£2.30 with a groupsave or network rail card.

Walk starts at 10:35 from Dunstable Quadrant centre (stop N3)
Walk end approx 17:30 at Dunstable

Pub stop for lunch, bring a packed lunch as there might not be time to order food

How to join?

• The walk is entirely free of charge;
• You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses;
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part);
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips:
  https://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/
• Please answer the RSVP question; Guests with missing or incorrect answers will be removed from the list!

What to bring

• Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended
• Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk
• Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy
• Spare socks
• Walking poles and/or an umbrella :-)
• Yourself...
• ...and your camera!
• Cash for train ticket
• Cash for pub at the end of the walk?

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes.
Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader".
Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen.
Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-)
By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.

Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips:
https://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/

TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE
Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered.
As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

Any questions, feel free to ask below or send a private message!