Greensand Ridge Walk
The Greensand Ridge Walk is a long-distance walk of 40 miles (64 km) that crosses Bedfordshire, with brief sections in Cambridgeshire and Buckinghamshire. From its southern endpoint at Leighton Buzzard, the route runs northeast to Gamlingay, following the Greensand Ridge; a distinctive feature that rises from surrounding clay vales to give a landscape of gently rolling hills and small valleys, often heavily wooded and rich in wildlife.
The route is well-connected to public transport, with each section starting and finishing near mainline railway stations. It is also close to the Bedford to Bletchley railway line (Marston Vale line) and well served by buses.
For bus times visit Travel line.
For train times visit National rail.
The route
We have the route split into 5 sections; each is available in PDF format.
These files contain maps and are not suitable for users of assistive technologies.
- view or download section 1: Leighton Buzzard to Woburn (PDF)
- view or download section 2: Woburn to Ampthill (PDF)
- view or download section 3: Ampthill to Haynes (PDF)
- view or download section 4: Haynes to Sandy (PDF)
- view or download section 5: Sandy to Gamlingay (PDF)
Organising a sponsored walk or event
Please email us at rightsofway@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk so that we know that the event is going ahead, make sure that it is operated safely and that any signs and notices are removed after the event is complete.
Accommodation along the route
Try these links for where to stay in the area, Sandy Tourist Information or Experience Bedfordshire.
Help us look after the Greensand Ridge Walk
We need volunteer wardens to look after a stretch of the route - it can be as short or as long as you like. If you are able to walk your chosen section 3 or 4 times a year, and then report back problems such as an overgrown path or a broken kissing gate, please contact us.
Email: countrysidesites@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Some parts of the route are already covered by wardens as shown on the plan.
The Icknield Way
The Icknield Way Path is a long-distance path that runs from the end of the Ridgeway at Ivinghoe Beacon, near Tring, to the start of the Peddar's Way at Knettishall Heath, near Thetford, for 110 miles (177 km). It links the two National Trails and runs through southern Bedfordshire.
Contact us
Telephone: 0300 300 8305
Email: countrysidesites@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk