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Central Bedfordshire

Dunton

Attractions and Places To See around Dunton - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Dunton include a mix of historical sites, nature reserves, and outdoor trails. This region offers diverse landscapes, from heathland and forests to remnants of ancient Roman roads and World War II airfields. Visitors can explore areas rich in natural beauty and historical significance, providing opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.

Best attractions and places to see around Dunton

  • The most popular attractions is Biggleswade Common Bridleway Entrance, a cycle_way that offers a route towards Biggleswade Common. It is known for its downhill section leading to the common.
  • Another must-see spot is The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve, a nature reserve managed by the RSPB. Visitors can explore the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire, with opportunities to see various wildlife and utilize the visitor centre and cafe.
  • Visitors also love Ashwell Street Byway, a trail that follows part of an old Roman Road. This unpaved grassy trail is suitable for cycling, horse riding, or walking.
  • Dunton is known for its historical sites, nature reserves, and diverse trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient routes to wildlife habitats.
  • The attractions around Dunton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 25 upvotes and 28 photos shared.

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Ashwell Street Byway

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Ashwell Street Byway follows part of an old Roman Road. An unpaved grassy trail suitable for cycling (mtb or gravel bikes), horse riding or walking. Free parking, shops and coffe shop in Ashwell village; or cycle there on quiet local roads or bridleways from Baldock, Letchworth, Hitchin or Stevenage.

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Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial

Highlight • Historical Site

Plaque and memorial for Royal Air Force Steeple Morden. The airfield was operational during the Second World War; initially as a dispersal field for RAF Bomber Command; then used by USAAF Photographic Reconnaisance Group and Fighter Groups.
The airfield was closed and abandoned in 1946, returning to agricultural use in the 1960s.
The former airfield is virtually unrecognizable. A few single-width concrete farm roads, which are remnants of the perimeter track and runways are all that remains.

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The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve

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The Lodge is a nature reserve managed by the RSPB. It's the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire. Important species that can be seen here include Hobbies, Nightjars, Ravens, Common Lizards and Natterjack Toads. There are also areas of grassland and woods, important habitat for other species.

There is a visitor centre, shop and cafe.

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Nice brew in the RSPB shop then then only route cycles are allowed to take leads down toward Biggleswade Common. Few knarly tree roots on the last downhill section by the gate.

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Wimpole Hall

Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site

Nice single lane through the Wimpole Estate. Goes through the grounds and past the house. The road has cattle grids and is quite gravelly but well passable on a road bike

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Popular around Dunton

Road Cycling Routes around Dunton

Hiking around Dunton

Running Trails around Dunton

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Tips from the Community

Neil Blair
April 17, 2025, Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial

War Memorial on former airfield worth a few minutes stop.

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A great ride through the RSPB area but be aware there is only one main route north/south that bikes are permitted. Brilliant area with cafe for a coffee and cake recharge!

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The Lodge is a nature reserve managed by the RSPB. It's the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire. Important species that can be seen here include Hobbies, Nightjars, Ravens, Common Lizards and Natterjack Toads. There are also areas of grassland and woods, important habitat for other species. There is a visitor centre, shop and cafe.

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This is a long, straight off-road path with changing surfaces (gravel, singletrack) between Ashwell and Melbourn, which is part of the Icknield Way. It is not particularly scenic, but you can get that continuing westward toward Letchworth.

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Loved this section. Chalky dry and fast!

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The bike path goes through grazing fields and is usually covered in mud and sh*t so choose a dry spell or avoid.

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One of my regular stops for coffee. New cafe open soon! You can cycle through the middle of the reserve - it’s a bridleway. Also along one edge from the cafe/shop to the station. Most paths closed to cycles due to ground nesting birds.

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Great straight route, quite bumpy, alot divets. Ideal if you suspension to soak up the bumbs

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of natural attractions can I explore around Dunton?

The region around Dunton offers several natural attractions. You can visit The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve, which features the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire, along with woodlands and grasslands, providing opportunities to spot various wildlife like Hobbies, Nightjars, and Common Lizards. It also has a visitor centre, shop, and cafe.

Are there any historical sites to visit near Dunton?

Yes, Dunton has a rich history. You can explore the Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial, which commemorates the Royal Air Force and USAAF units that operated from the airfield during World War II. While the airfield itself is mostly returned to agricultural use, the memorial provides insight into its past. Additionally, the Ashwell Street Byway follows part of an old Roman Road, offering a glimpse into ancient history.

What outdoor activities are popular around Dunton?

Dunton is great for outdoor activities, especially cycling and walking. You can enjoy cycling along the Ashwell Street Byway, an unpaved grassy trail suitable for mountain or gravel bikes, or walking. The Biggleswade Common Bridleway Entrance leads to a popular route towards Biggleswade Common, known for its downhill section. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Dunton guide, or for road cycling, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Dunton guide.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Dunton area?

Absolutely! The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve is a fantastic family-friendly option, offering trails, a visitor centre, and a cafe, with opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Shuttleworth Collection is another excellent choice, featuring historic aircraft and vehicles, beautiful gardens, and often hosts airshows, making it an engaging experience for all ages.

Where can I find trails for running near Dunton?

There are several running trails available near Dunton. You can find various routes, including moderate to difficult options, in the Running Trails around Dunton guide. Popular routes include loops from Biggleswade that take you through areas like Sandy Heath and towards The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve.

What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/374232" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shuttleworth Collection</a> and what does it offer?

The Shuttleworth Collection is a renowned attraction featuring a colourful array of historic aircraft and vehicles. It's known for having one of the best-preserved collections in the world, including Edwardian aeroplanes and the oldest British plane still capable of flight. The site also includes a manor house, gardens, and an airfield, and hosts regular airshows throughout the year.

Can I cycle through <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5026499" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve</a>?

Yes, you can cycle through parts of The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve. There is a bridleway that runs through the middle of the reserve, and also along one edge from the cafe/shop to the station. However, most other paths are closed to cycles due to ground-nesting birds, so it's important to stick to designated routes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/1116997" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ashwell Street Byway</a>?

The Ashwell Street Byway is an unpaved grassy trail that follows part of an old Roman Road. It is suitable for cycling (mountain or gravel bikes), horse riding, or walking. You can expect a natural, historical path that connects various local areas.

Are there any cafes or facilities available at the attractions?

Yes, several attractions offer facilities. The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve has a visitor centre, shop, and cafe. The Shuttleworth Collection also provides facilities, including a cafe and restaurant, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dunton?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered. Many enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife spotting at The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve, often stopping for coffee at its cafe. Cyclists enjoy the routes like the Biggleswade Common Bridleway Entrance for its scenic downhill sections. The historical significance of sites like the Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial and the ancient Ashwell Street Byway also draw interest, offering a blend of nature, history, and outdoor activity.

Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?

Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve has a cafe, which is a popular stop for many visitors. The Shuttleworth Collection also features a cafe and restaurant. Additionally, nearby villages like Ashwell offer shops and coffee shops, and the village of Old Warden, close to Shuttleworth, has a great pub.

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