Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire
The greater part of the Dunstable Downs are managed by the National Trust as part of the Dunstable Downs, Countryside Centre and Whipsnade Estate property. The chalk downs give excellent habitat to a wind range of wild life. Rare wild flowers, such as the Bee Orchid, and different butterfly species, like the Marbled White and the Chalkhill Blue have made their homes there.
The Chilterns Gateway Centre is a The National Trust visitor centre sited on the very top of Dunstable Downs. The centre is conveniently next to the B4541 road that crosses the summit. This means that an ascent of the hill, for those not willing or able to put in much physical effort, simply involves getting out of a car at the highest point on the road and walking across to the trig point.
Visitors who like more of a challenge can climb the hill from the base or from Dunstable to the north. A circular walk exists that runs, via the base of the hill, from the village of Whipsnade and along the Icknield Way and Chiltern Way. This circuit can be extended to take in the northern top of Five Knolls. Walkers might be joined by visitors who prefer to use the air above the downs to get around. The topography is excellent for gliders, kite fliers, hang gliders and paragliders. The London Gliding Club is based at the foot of the downs.
Whipsnade Zoo cut an enormous lion shape into the chalk on the side of one of the downs. This can be seen from the B489 Aylesbury to Dunstable road. Whipsnade Wild Animal Park is of course one of the area's principle attractions. The park is owned by the Zoological Society of London and is correctly known as ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. With over 6,000 animals in a beautiful 600 acres parkland setting it has been very popular since its opening in May 1931. The zoo received over 38,000 visitors on its second day of opening!
More British Natural features?
Other Bedfordshire Naturals
The Chiltern Hills
Sharpenhoe Clappers
Marston Vale
Greensand Ridge
Brit Quote: |
|
On this day: |