Sharpenhoe and Sundon Hills

Sharpenhoe and Sundon Hills is the National Trust's name for four adjoining stretches of countryside on the chalk ridge north of Luton: Sundon Hills, Moleskin and Markham Hills, Sharpenhoe Clappers and Smithcombe Hills, in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The best known is Sharpenhoe Clappers, a classic chalk escarpment crowned with traces of an Iron Age hillfort and an ancient beech wood, reputedly haunted, with views along the ridge and across Bedfordshire. The Trust suggests seeking out the old chalk quarry, which in summer fills with flowers and butterflies. Dogs are welcome to explore the whole site, with the Trust's Canine Code asking for a short lead around livestock. Reviewers describe a network of paths through the woods, and several warn that the climbs include long, steep and uneven flights of steps, unsuited to anyone with mobility, heart or breathing problems. One tip from regular visitors: the Clappers car park is small and fills by late morning, so arrive early. A second car park on Harlington Road serves Sundon Hills.