Greensand Ridge

Of all the walks throughout the Marston Vale, the Greensand Ridge walk is perhaps the most well-known, and some would say the most spectacular. It is Bedfordshire's premier long distance footpath, and is well-used by walkers all year round. The ridge is dominated by woodland, both ancient and modern; with just a few areas of natural heathland remaining. Some of the nature associated with these habitats includes heather, gorse, common lizard and nightjar on the heaths; and bluebells, woodpeckers, buzzard, and of course, the muntjac deer in the woodlands. Historic building enthusiasts will no doubt be interested in the many historic buildings the route passes. Many historic buildings were built from locally quarried sandstone, such as Northill Church. The sandstone has an iron bearing mineral within the stone that gives some of the rock a greenish tint.

The walk also forms a focal point for the local rights of way network, with many foot and bridlepaths providing key links to nearby villages and rural areas.

Because it is tricky to navigate the entire route in one go, the route has been split into 5 sections. Below are brief details of 2 sections of the route that are within easy access of the Marston Vale Line. For more information on the Greensand Ridge Walk, visit their website, a link to which is given above.

Walk 1 - Leighton Buzzard to Woburn

Distance: 8.5 miles
Start/Finish Point: Leighton Buzzard or Woburn
Nearest Marston Vale Station: Woburn Sands or Leighton Buzzard via change at Bletchley

Starting off in the market town of Leighton Buzzard, this section of the walk follows the Grand Union Canal before heading off through Stockgrove Country Park, crossing the A5 Roman Road. The walk then meanders its way through woodland to the historical settlement of Woburn.

Route Description

Route Map (PDF, 687kb)

Walk 2 - Woburn to Ampthill

Distance: 10 miles
Start/Finish Point: Woburn
Nearest Marston Vale Station: Woburn Sands

Starting off in Woburn, this walk crosses the historic estate of Woburn Abbey (watch out for the deer!) before heading into the village of Eversholt. The walk then veers northwards through open country, before heading into heavily wooded areas near Lidlington and Millbrook. The walk then wanders into the historic town of Ampthill.

Route Description

Route Map (PDF, 449kb)

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