TRT Extra (Spring 2008) - Community Action

Additional information on articles in the "Community Action" section of Three Rivers Times.

Healthy history

Spring is the season to make the most of what the beautiful surrounding area has to offer, so why not soak up some history whilst enjoying a bracing country walk?

National Trust houses and gardens residents can visit in the local area include the beautiful Cliveden Estate in Buckinghamshire, the Ashridge Estate near Berkhamstead in Hertfordshire and Hatfield Forest near Bishops Stortford.

Cliveden

Once the glittering haunt of the 17th century's rich and famous and later the scandalous backdrop of the infamous Profumo Affair, Cliveden Estate has certainly had an intriguing and glamorous past. Built by the notorious womaniser the Duke of Buckingham in 1666 to entertain his mistress, Cliveden has since played host to virtually every British monarch since George I. Today the estate boasts a spectacular Italianate mansion overlooking the River Thames, with beautiful formal gardens and woodlands stretching right down to the river’s bank. Cliveden’s woodlands are open almost all year round during certain hours and the house and formal gardens re-open in late March/early April. For opening hours, dates and admission information, residents can call the Cliveden Information Line on 01494 755 562.

Ashridge

Perched on the side of the stunning Chiltern Hills, the Ashridge Estate offers fantastic views for keen walkers and is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the renowned red kite. The estate is open all year round free of charge, with the café and visitor centre available at certain times. For more information and directions, residents can call the Ashridge Estate Information Line on 01494 755557.

Hatfield Forest

For miles of ancient walks and nature trails, residents can head north and visit Hatfield Forest near Bishops Stortford. A rare surviving example of a medieval royal hunting forest and a National Nature Reserve, the forest offers fantastic walks all free of charge. For more information residents can call the Hatfield Forest Information Line, on 01279 874 040.

More on the web - for more information on all of the National Trust properties featured above, residents can visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk.