Black Park Country Park, located in Wexham near Slough, is an accessible natural retreat ideal for disabled visitors, older adults, and families.

Black Park Country Park, located in Wexham near Slough, is an accessible natural retreat ideal for disabled visitors, older adults, and families.

Explore Dunstable Downs viewpoint walk with us!

Address:

Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2GY

What3Words:

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Getting there:

Dunstable Downs is located off the B4541.

Follow signs for Dunstable Downs.

Phone:

Blue Badge Bays:

13

Overview

Dunstable Downs is the highest point in the East of England and one of the best-known viewpoints on the Chilterns ridge. The chalk grasslands of the Downs have miles of footpaths and circular walks to enjoy. This is a fantastic place to fly a kite, enjoy a picnic, walk your dog or just take a walk and enjoy the stunning views.

You might also get to see the gliders of the London Gliding Club soaring overhead, joined by Red Kites. Much of the Downs is registered common land with an ancient history, including 5,000‑year‑old burial mounds and a medieval rabbit warren site.

There are two access walks (Viewpoint and Woodland Walk), suitable for all abilities. Two Tramper all terrain scooters and a Mountain Trike are available to enjoy the site for those with mobility issues.

Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control and on leads in in the car parks, visitor centre and courtyard. A full programme of events is available throughout the year.

Access & Facilities

Paths: Over 2.3m wide, surfaced with crushed granite (mostly smooth).

Toilets: External block with accessible toilet (right transfer) and standard toilets – internal accessible toilet and standard toilets.

Café: Seating inside and outside, with accessible benches plus National Trust shop and bookshop.

Map: A tactile map next to car park.

Sculpture Trail: Woodland Walk features local wildlife sculptures, with signs explaining the BSL for the animal.

Mobility hire: Two Tramper All Terrain Scooters and a Mountain Trike. Free to borrow for 2 hour slots all week, 10am–4pm (weather dependent). Book in advance via: 01582 500920.

Map of the Dunstable Downs viewpoint route

Walk description

Start Point:

Leave the visitor centre and café, towards the Windcatcher sculpture. Turn right, following the path along the top of the Downs.

Route:

  • Straight route – return the way you came.
  • Benches along the route, as well as large seating area halfway.
  • Route can be undulating as it follows the natural terrain.
  • Fantastic views, but may be challenging for those with a fear of heights.
  • Option to venture onto the hilltop (grass surface).
  • Ideal for those new to walking in nature.

Terrain:

  • Miles Without Stiles Rating: Access for All.
  • Inclines: Mostly easy with some ranging from 1 in 9 to 1 in 16.
  • Benches: Spaced along the route.
  • Path surfaces: Mostly smooth, 2.3m wide; concrete and compacted earth.

Windcatcher sculpture on the Dunstable Downs View Walk

Windcatcher sculpture on the Dunstable Downs View Walk

Features and facilities

Accessible & regular parking
Information / visitor centre
Cafe
Accessible & regular toilets
Tramper hire (prebooked)
Hilltop viewpoint