Greensand Ridge Walk
Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay · Easy
The Greensand Ridge Walk is a 40 mile (64 km) route through woods and farmland along the dissected Greensand Ridge, which rises from the clay vales on either side. It runs from Leighton Buzzard in Bedfordshire to Gamlingay in Cambridgeshire, passing Woburn Abbey and Ampthill Park, where it connects with the John Bunyan Trail. It can be completed in 2 to 3 days, depending on your pace and level of fitness.
The trail follows a mixture of paths, tracks and quiet country lanes, passing through picturesque villages and historic sites. The ridge is a range of hills that offers views over the surrounding countryside.
Walks on the Greensand Ridge Walk
Greensand Ridge Walk Interactive Map
Route map for Greensand Ridge Walk by Walking Rambler on plotaroute.com
Landscapes and Wildlife
The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including ancient woodlands, heathland and rolling fields. It also offers the opportunity to see wildlife, including birds of prey, deer and wildflowers.
Accommodation and Refreshments
Accommodation options along the trail are limited, with a few campsites and B&Bs available in the nearby towns and villages. There are also a few pubs and cafes along the way, providing opportunities for refreshments and rest.
Links to Other Trails
At Leighton Buzzard, the Two Ridges Link (8 miles, on OS mapping) leads via the Grand Union Canal to Ivinghoe Beacon and the Ridgeway National Trail and Icknield Way Path. At Gamlingay, the waymarked Clopton Way (11 miles) goes on to Wimpole Hall, from where the waymarked Wimpole Way (13 miles) takes the walker to Cambridge. The waymarked Marston Vale Timberland Trail (14 miles) is a circular route that shares the Greensand Ridge Walk between Ampthill Park and Lidlington.
Overall, walking the Greensand Ridge Walk is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the area, and it is suitable for walkers of all levels of experience and fitness.