The Ridgeway - Ivinghoe Beacon

On my way to London on Saturday. Still wanted to go for a walk, so we went for this stroll on the Ridgeway long distance path

It's in the Chilterns, off the M1 and/or the M40. Only about 20 miles to London, but feels much further away than that

 The cattle are belted Galloways. The National Trust put them there to keep the vegetation in check

 Didn't see any military equipment on our walk

A rare view of me. Note the new boots: I'll be reviewing them shortly

 A dry valley - feature of chalkland like this, but spectacularly steep-sided

 My other half 

The only problem is, the hills were alive - but with people, rather than the sound of music. But it's nice to see families enjoying themselves

The path is so well walked it was easy to follow. No need for a map

The summit of Ivinghoe Beacon. It's 757ft above sea level (233m), but isn't the highest point of the ridge. It's the one with the best view though. It's also the start or finish of the Ridgeway National Trail. Avebury is at the other end.

  

It was an out and back walk of about 3 miles, but a little strenuous, totalling 400 feet of ascent, according to the app on my phone. I will be reviewing this app on a later post too.

To do a walk like this is so easy; it's simple to follow; it doesn't take long; and helps with overall fitness. Plus it's lovely. What's not to like?

Walk details: Car park (signposted) on a minor road off the B488 near Ivinghoe. It's about 8 miles from the M1 - a little further from the M40. To walk, just follow the Ridgeway path signs.

The Ridgeway itself is 87 miles long and follows ancient trackways. It's full of history and not too difficult to walk. I have plans...