There is no better way to experience the beauty of Bedfordshire’s countryside than on foot, and this September offers the perfect opportunity to lace up your walking boots and discover one of the county’s true treasures.
As part of the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Greensand Ridge, The Greensand Trust is wrapping up its special spring and summer event programme with two final guided walks this September, alongside an exclusive Heritage Open Day tour of a hidden local nature reserve.
What is the Greensand Ridge?
Stretching for 40 miles across Bedfordshire (from Leighton Buzzard in the southwest to Gamlingay in the northeast), the Greensand Ridge is an elevated band of sandstone landscape that rises above the surrounding clay vales.
Celebrated as Bedfordshire’s premier walking route, the Greensand Ridge is a rich tapestry of ancient woodlands, heathlands, historic parklands, and rolling farmland.
The ridge gets its name from the green-hued sandstone beneath the surface, creating a unique soil type that supports rare habitats, wildlife, and panoramic views across the county.
Whether you are completely new to the route or a seasoned local rambler, exploring the Ridge offers a fresh perspective on Bedfordshire’s scenic heritage.
Two ways to explore this September
To mark 40 years of the trail, The Greensand Trust has devised two final celebratory walks for September.
Both offer a wonderful day out in the fresh air while supporting environmental conservation across the borough and beyond.
Sunday, 6 September 2026
Haynes Circular Walk and Wooden Hill Coffee
Meeting point: Haynes Village Hall
A 5.75-mile scenic loop following the Greensand Ridge Walk through the serene canopy of Chicksands Woods before returning via the picturesque village of Haynes.
In collaboration with Wooden Hill Coffee, the walk includes a lunchtime pitstop where walkers can treat themselves to fresh coffee, sourdough toast, and artisan cakes.
Sunday, 27 September 2026
Gamlingay & Historic Parklands Walk (7 Miles)
Meeting point: Gamlingay Eco Hub
Journeying right to the eastern edge of the Greensand Ridge Walk, this 7-mile circular route loops around the historic village of Gamlingay and ventures out onto the ridge path to uncover the grand, hidden parkland stories of Tetworth and Woodbury.
How to book
Tickets for both walks are £10 per person, with all proceeds directly supporting the environmental and conservation work of the Greensand Trust.
Spaces are limited, so advance booking on their website here is essential
Discover the “Lost Landscapes” of Sandy Smith Nature Reserve
If you are looking for even more autumn countryside inspiration, The Greensand Trust is also celebrating 20 years of managing the Sandy Smith Nature Reserve near Clophill.
On Wednesday, 16 September, as part of Heritage Open Days, there will be guided 2-to-3-mile walks exploring the hidden histories and lost landscapes of this riverside reserve.
You can book your free place here.
