Wendover to Ivinghoe Beacon

Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)

Section Overview

The final section of the Ridgeway provides a fitting climax to the trail. From Wendover, the path climbs back onto the chalk escarpment and follows it north-east through the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The walking is varied and scenic, alternating between beech woodland, chalk grassland, and open ridges with far-reaching views. Along the way, you’ll encounter Coombe Hill, with its war memorial and sweeping panoramas, and Steps Hill, a dramatic chalk spur near the end of the route. The trail finishes at Ivinghoe Beacon, an iconic hilltop and ancient hillfort that marks the northern end of the Ridgeway.

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Starting from Wendover

Leaving Wendover, the Ridgeway climbs steadily into the surrounding hills. The town makes an ideal starting point, with shops and cafés to stock up before the final push. The initial ascent brings you into a landscape of chalk downland and beech trees, typical of the Chilterns.

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Coombe Hill and the Escarpment

A highlight comes soon after, when the Ridgeway passes near Coombe Hill, the highest point in the Chilterns. The short detour to the Boer War memorial is well worth it, rewarding walkers with breathtaking views across the vale and even as far as the Cotswolds on a clear day. From here, the Ridgeway continues along the escarpment edge, skirting fields and hedgerows, before dropping back into pockets of woodland.

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Through Woodland and Farmland

The middle stretch of the walk alternates between shady beech woods and rolling farmland. At intervals, the path passes close to the Chequers Estate, the country retreat of the British Prime Minister, hidden away in its secluded valley. While there is no public access to the house itself, the surrounding parkland gives the walk a stately character, with broad views and sweeping slopes leading onward.

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Steps Hill and Incombe Hole

As the route pushes north-east, the landscape grows more dramatic. The Ridgeway climbs onto Steps Hill, a striking chalk spur overlooking the deep natural amphitheatre of Incombe Hole. This is one of the most scenic spots on the whole trail, with chalk grassland alive in summer with butterflies and wildflowers.

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Ivinghoe Beacon

The last stretch leads across open slopes and gentle ridges, before beginning the steady climb onto Ivinghoe Beacon itself. This Iron Age hillfort, perched high above the surrounding countryside, makes a fitting end for the Ridgeway. From the summit, the views stretch across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and into the Midlands, while behind you, the rolling spine of the Chilterns marks the journey you’ve completed. Congratulations! You’ve just completed the Ridgeway National Trail, proudly walking across the length of Britain’s oldest road.