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7.4miles Ivinghoe Beacon to Pitstone Windmill loop. Brisk8
Saturday, 7 March⋅09:15 – 12:30
Wind the clock series. Walk 10
Walk difficulty/pace: Grade 8. 11.9Km Total ascent 345M
Starting location.
Nat Grid SP963159
what3words drift.complies.sweat
Open Loc 9C3XR9MW+MM5
Ivinghoe Beacon NT free carpark LU7 9EL
Google Maps link:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/p41Y6fHJdv8n89Zz5
Description
Mostly footpaths but there will be small stretches of narrow pavement next to road. The walk has several steep gradients toward the end. The steepest one is mandatory, (unless you follow the road back) while you have an option to skip the others by taking a shortcut at the end.
Depending on the weather conditions we may climb up to Ivinghoe Beacon for an early view before we head for Pitstone windmill, which is thought to be the earliest still in existence in the British Isles. There will be opportunity in Ivinghoe to stop to purchase refreshment at the Ivinghoe Old School Community Hub Cafe about an hour after the start. Afterwards we walk the Two Ridges Link toward Ivinghoe Aston before turning toward Ivinghoe Beacon. Be warned that we will take the steepest ascent up to the Beacon from the West, hence the grading of this walk which if it were longer would have increased the grading to 9, but other gradients are not so severe and much of the earlier part of the walk is not very hilly. From the top of the beacon, we walk along the ridge to enjoy the panoramic view, and on to the tumulus past Gallows Hill to see a good view of the Whipsnade Chalk Lion and the Dunstable Downs. Then loop around down a chalky bridlepath and climb steeply up Beacon Hill, this time from the North before turning in a loop along the Icknield Way Trail with finally, another steep but short ascent back to the car park.
Prepare
Dress appropriately for the weather, this area can get very muddy so if it has been wet good boots are essential, not trainers. Walking poles recommended for those who use them. Some protection for your car seats can be a good idea in case you slip and trousers get muddy.
Check the weather forecast, it can be very windy on Beacon Hill. Bring small rucksack for carrying any removed layers.
Dogs
Well behaved dogs are welcome and will need to be on a lead in some locations especially around sheep with lambs.
We will pass through fields which have potential for sheep, lambs, cows or horses and also ground-nesting birds between March and August.
Booking
Booking not required for this walk.
Walk Leader
Alan Cooper (male)
Mobile 07550002345
Grading guide:
Guide: 1-2=easy; 3-4=leisurely; 5-6=moderate; 7-8=brisk/hilly moderate; 9-10=strenuous.
(1=leisurely, wheelchair friendly, 10=such steep or slippery inclines it is only just possible to get traction and the walk will be very strenuous. Most walks will be in the 5-8 range.)
Always check calendar and refresh just before travelling to a walk in case of cancellation.
Walks start promptly so be sure to arrive in time to get your boots on.
All walks are joined at the risk of the participants and participants are responsible for their own actions and those of their dogs.
Please behave kindly and responsibly, being especially careful along roads and while crossing roads.
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