The third in this series, Running The Ridge, maybe more to follow?
Having lived in the area for many years, I have run along the Greensand Ridge Walk between Lidlington and Ampthill Park many times. It is also part of The John Bunyan Trail and The Marston Vale Timberland Trail, all three are worth exploring. This is a great trail and hill running route, combined with a few circuits of the park. It has been good training for the various events I have entered including Mountain Marathons and the LDWA's Hundred Mile Challenges. Over the years I have seen it through all the seasons and many different weathers and spied many of the local wildlife. Some of my favourite times have been out on a beautiful sunny winters morning, in the snow, and not seeing a single soul, wondering why no one else is out! Then on arriving at Ampthill Park, I see all the families out with their sledges and having fun.
This bridleway joins the Greensand Ridge Walk which contains the highest points of the walk, so be prepared for a little hill walking. Together with Forest of Marston Vale land on Lidlington hill, there are some magnificent views of Bedfordshire to be had. There are also glimpses into Millbrook Proving Ground, to spot the vehicles on the various tracks.
Direct access to the cache can be from Lidlington village, the bridleway behind the children's park and village graveyard, follows an uphill route (you have been warned) with a great view just before the cache. The bridleway then continues on to join the Greensand Ridge Walk, near 'Running the Ridge' and then on to 'Running The Ridge - Branched Off'
Please disturb the area around the cache as little as possible and treat the woods and trail with respect and take any litter home with you. Sorry, it's not suitable for wheelchairs. Bring your own pen, and replace as found.
Look out for that old bearded bald guy running by, he may be the cache owner!