We visited the stunning Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire recently, which is quite nearby to us. It's owned by the National Trust and is an estate made up of ancient trees and woodlands, rolling chalk downlands and lush meadows - all in an area of natural outstanding beauty.
It's a place that encourages walkers, dog walkers, cyclists and horse riders, with over 80 miles of designated footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths: a place of space, fresh air and freedom. There are also fallow deer and muntjac deer - deer have been on the estate at Ashridge for hundreds of years.
It was a gorgeous and sunny November day and I'd thought the trees and woodlands might look stunning at this time of year and on a day like this. And they were - there's nothing like crackling leaves underneath your feet and the sight of colours changing form green, to gold, to orange and then red. There was a gentle breeze in the air and the leaves trickled silently from the trees - I love to see this. Beautiful.
There's also a visitor centre and National Trust shop together with a lovely open air cafe, which is perfect for a rest and some refreshment after a walk. We enjoyed a warming lunch after our first walk and then treated ourselves to an afternoon tea after another explore around. I always feel there's something special about eating outside on a cold, crispy day, everyone wrapped up in cosy scarves and hats enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
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