The Lion Point

The viewpoint from Lion Point delivers proper views across the Chiltern Hills, and on a clear day you can see for miles. It's that rare thing - a spot that's genuinely worth stopping for without being either touristy or forgettable. The landscape rolls out in every direction, with the valleys and ridges of the Chilterns making sense once you're actually standing up here looking at them.

Walkers get the most from Lion Point, particularly those tackling longer routes through the Chiltern ridge paths. It's not a destination on its own - more an excellent marker on a good walk - but it gives you somewhere to stop and breathe without feeling like you've wasted the trip. The view justifies the detour, which is more than you can say for most roadside viewpoints. Allow twenty minutes if you're just passing through, longer if you've got maps out and want to identify landmarks. There's parking nearby, though don't expect facilities.

If you're based at any of the nearby parks - Hill Farm And Orchard (4.4 miles away) is the strongest option if you want somewhere with proper facilities - Lion Point fits perfectly into a morning's walk before heading back for lunch. Norcott Campsite in the orchard is closer to the working landscape you'll see from up here. Winter's the best time if you want clear sight lines; summer can be a bit hazy. Dunstable sits just south and makes an easy reference point for getting your bearings.