We are the Chiltern Young Walkers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
We walk from Berkhamsted Castle up the hill to the Ashridge Estate, passing through the the scenic Alpine Meadow Nature Reserve along the way.
We go around the perimeter of Berkhamsted Common, scene of the 1866 Battle of Berkhamsted Common. This was when locals dismantled fences that had been erected around the area by estate landowner Lord Brownlow to protect public access to common land.
We then walk through Frithsden Beeches, passing the tree that was used for the Whomping Willow in the Harry Potter films. It’s actually a beech tree and has been struck in half by lightening since the movies were made. We then pass some trenches that were used to train soldiers before they fought in the First World War.
Finally, we head back to start point, enjoying sweeping views across the surrounding countryside, before finishing with a lap around the perimeter of the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle. This is where the Anglo Saxons surrendered to the Normans after the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
This walk is assessable via public transport as the start point is opposite Berkhamsted Train Station. Drivers can park in the station’s car park for £6.40 or for free on nearby roads like Castle Hill if you check the restrictions first.
Please bring a packed lunch.
Meet at the entrance to Berkhamsted Castle.
