Ampthill: History and Walking Routes

Historic buildings, churches and paths give you specific topics to plan your days in Ampthill. The landmarks range from the remains of a 15th-century palace to a war memorial with additions from the Second World War; there are also several places to go walking. If you are looking for a hotel in Ampthill, these different points of interest can help you plan your stay. The opening hours of St Andrew's Church and Houghton House also provide specific timings for two visits; check them before you travel.

Buildings and walking routes in Ampthill

Ampthill Castle comprises the remains of a 15th-century palace. In Ampthill Park stands the Katherine Cross, erected in 1773 to mark the site of Ampthill Castle and listed as a Grade II building. Two dates are therefore important for placing these landmarks in context: the 15th century for the palace and 1773 for the marker of its site.

The Alameda was laid out between 1821 and 1827. This Grade II-listed town walk was given to the people of Ampthill as a public walking route. It therefore dates from after the Katherine Cross was erected in 1773. Ampthill Park is designated a County Wildlife Site and has several walking trails.

Section 3 of the Greensand Ridge Walk starts on Bedford Street in Ampthill. The park offers several routes to choose from, while the Greensand Ridge Walk has a specifically named section and starting point. When planning your walks, you can therefore distinguish between the paths in Ampthill Park and the start of this section.

Churches and historic memorials

St Andrew the Apostle has Saxon origins; the present building dates from the 15th century. St Andrew's Church is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Check these opening hours before your visit so you can plan your time at the church accordingly.

The Parish Church of St Andrew contains marble monuments dating from 1672 and 1681 to Richard Nicolls of Ampthill Park. St Andrew the Apostle is home to his tomb and a memorial. Nicolls named New York after his friend, the Duke of York, who later became King James II. The memorials associated with Nicolls therefore also connect to the story behind the naming of New York.

Ampthill War Memorial is listed as a Grade II building. It was erected in 1921 and received additions from the Second World War, probably including the shaft and the cross finial. The probable attribution of these components is part of the recorded description of the memorial.

Houghton House north of the town centre

Houghton House is nearby, north of Ampthill town centre. It is the surviving shell of a 17th-century manor house. The house is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm or until dusk, whichever comes first. Check the access conditions before travelling and take the earlier closing time into account when planning your visit.

For the main travel overview: Bedfordshire.