Places to see - Ashridge Forest

If your from around the Beds, Herts & Bucks regions, one place you certainly need to go and pay a visit to is Ashridge Forest. Situated just north of Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead, the Ashridge Estate has been classed as an area of outstanding natural beauty and on a glorious day is the ideal place to go and have a family picnic. There's 2,000 acres of woodlands and commons to explore with a rich array of wildlife (including Fallow and Muntjac Deer) and some stunning scenery. The estate has also proven to be a firm favourite for a community of Red Kites, who you can see hovering above the meadows and hills. Also, if your a Butterfly enthusiast you can follow the Ivinghoe Hills Butterfly Walk.

One of the main attractions of the Estate, and it's rather difficult to miss, is the Bridgewater Monument, it's open to public and you can scale the 172 steps to the very top taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Ashridge House right in front of you. On a clear day it's said you can see Canary Wharf 30 miles away sparkling in the sunshine. To the left of the Monument there's a visitors centre with cafe and a National Trust Gift Shop.

If you want to venture into the woods, there's a tremendously large tree that fell down and has proven to be very popular with younger climbers. For the intrepid explorers amongst you there's also an old hut that is believed to be a witches house and if you listen very carefully you can hear faint cackles coming from inside (you might be there a very long time if you expect to hear anything), but it's good fun for the kids!

You can also head out of Ashridge and take the picturesque walk along to Ivinghoe Beacon, which provides spectacular views. It used to be an Iron Age fort and was used for bonfires and beacons of course, on special occasions it's still lit. Along from the Beacon you can visit Pitstone Windmill. The Windmill dates back to the 17th Century and during the Summer months you can climb inside and discover how the whole process worked.

All in all the estate really is worth heading to next time your in the area, whether you fancy a short walk or a picnic, or want to take in Ivinghoe and Pitstone to extend your day, there's an eclectic range of walks and activities, suitable for all ages and all levels. It's just as welcoming in the Autumn and Winter, though we'd recommend taking a cosy jacket and I don't think the ice cream man, who's ever presence in the warmer months will be there!