Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures in Bedfordshire
Rolling Ridges, Quiet Woods, and Lowland Landscapes
A small but varied county with ridge trails, heathland, and off-the-radar walks.
Bedfordshire may be one of England’s quieter counties, but for walkers that’s part of the appeal. It’s a landscape of wooded hills, heathland ridges, and green river valleys — ideal for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Peaceful footpaths connect market towns, villages, and nature reserves, while long-distance routes such as the Greensand Ridge Walk and the John Bunyan Trail offer scenic multi-day options.
You’ll find hilltop views at Ampthill Park, woodland routes in the Marston Vale, and open countryside near villages like Old Warden and Shillington. Along the southern edge, Dunstable Downs and the Icknield Way bring big skies and chalk escarpments — easy, accessible walking away from the crowds and perfect for slow travel.
Where to Walk in Bedfordshire
Greensand Ridge Walk
A 40-mile trail across the wooded hills of mid-Bedfordshire, from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay.
Ampthill & Maulden Woods
Woodland walking with views, bluebells in spring, and links to the Ridge Walk.
Forest of Marston Vale
A growing network of woodlands and trails near Stewartby and Millennium Country Park.
John Bunyan Trail
A 78-mile heritage route passing through Bedford and rural countryside.
Dunstable Downs & Icknield Way
Chalk escarpments and open skies along the county’s southern edge.
Adventure Highlights
- Ridges, woodlands, and village paths
- Long-distance trails and quiet circular walks
- Seasonal colour — spring bluebells and autumn leaves
- Slower-paced walking in a less crowded county