The Ashridge Estate comprises 5000 acres of free-to-explore woodland just outside Berkhamsted on the edge of the Chilterns.

We drove up there on what turned out to be a very busy day – there was a huge geotagging event on, with hundreds of people having breakfast at the large café adjoining the visitor centre. That said the driveway up through the trees is extremely long and there’s more than enough parking – if fact there appeared to be many groups who just drive up there for picnics and barbecues!

Outside the centre was a small children’s play area based around fallen trees and stumps – our little one loved playing on this and exploring the woodland behind.

One of the draws to the estate is the Bridgewater Monument, a grade-2-listed tower built in 1832; its 172 steps can be climbed for a small charge.

We headed into the woods on one of the accessible paths. It was a little bumpy pushing the buggy, but woodland soon turned into views of rolling meadows as we ventured further in. We didn’t have time to complete a circular walk, but we’ll definitely be back to explore more of the countryside (and to try one of those tasty breakfasts)!

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate