Hertfordshire Walks

Sharpenhoe Clappers

Sharpenhoe Clappers walk, Hertfordshire
Sharpenhoe Clappers · Photo: Helen Cal-Fernandez

Close to the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire border, you'll find Sharpenhoe Clappers which is a chalk ridge at the northern edge of the Chilterns.

It is best known for the Iron Age hillfort on its summit, and for the wide views that open out across the countryside from the top. The slopes below are chalk grassland, the kind of open, springy turf that suits this landscape and gives the hills their rolling shape.

We have two walks here, from 1 to 2.4 miles, and both are hilly. You can easily follow them on the Hertfordshire Walks App which gives you car directions to the start point and then guides you around the walking route as well using your phone's GPS.

Download the Hertfordshire Walks App to follow these routes with real-time GPS navigation.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

On a computer? Scan the QR code with your phone's camera to get the Hertfordshire Walks app.

Walk information

Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk 1

Walk distance
1 mile
Time
30 mins
Route type
Circular

This short but steep route heads straight up onto the dramatic ridge of Sharpenhoe Clappers, quickly gaining height for some of the best views in the area. The climb is brief but punchy, rising through chalk grassland to reach the Iron Age hillfort at the top.

Once up, the reward is immediate and you'll enjoy wide, open views stretching across Bedfordshire and beyond. It’s a quick burst of effort for a big scenic payoff, perfect if you’re short on time but still want that sense of elevation.

Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk 1 No ratings yet Be the first - rate this walk in the Hertfordshire Walks App

Walk information

Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk 2

Walk distance
2¼ miles
Time
1 hour
Route type
Circular

This longer walk explores the rolling landscape around Sharpenhoe Clappers, weaving across the undulating chalk hills that define this dramatic part of the Chilterns. The route builds gradually, with a mix of climbs and gentler sections that open up ever-changing views.

After a steep initial climb, the ridge at Sharpenhoe Clappers remains a highlight, but the surrounding valleys and slopes then add variety and a real sense of space to your walk.

It’s a rewarding walk if you’re looking to stretch your legs a bit more and experience the full sweep of this striking landscape.

Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk 2 No ratings yet Be the first - rate this walk in the Hertfordshire Walks App

Navigate the walks

Hertfordshire Walks App

Follow the Sharpenhoe Clappers walks with GPS guidance

It's like sat-nav, but for footpaths.

Choose a walk and follow the pointer showing your live position on the route map, so you always know you're on the right path.

The app works without a phone signal, so you can keep following the route wherever the walk takes you.

Download the app

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

On a computer? Scan the QR code with your phone's camera to get the Hertfordshire Walks app.

Hertfordshire Walks app showing the walker's live position on a route map

Designed to be simple

  • Choose a walk and follow the pointer
  • See your live position on the route map
  • Works without a phone signal
  • Includes 400 Hertfordshire walks
  • Free one-month trial
  • Available for iPhone and Android

Explore the area

Nearby walks

Explore the county

Hertfordshire walks map

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Search Hertfordshire walks

See where the walks start, explore the area and tap a pin to find a route for your next adventure.

Search Hertfordshire walks
Expanded route map for Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk 1, a 1 mile circular walk in Hertfordshire