Long Marston is situated north of the market town of Tring. It is famous for in 1751, being the scene of England’s last witch-lynching at the village pond when Ruth Osborn was captured and drowned. There is still some debate as to the actual location of this event as Long Marston does not have a central village pond.
There is a flint tower, all that is left of the original medieval church of Long Marston. This has been recently renovated and can be found at the end of Chapel Lane.
A short walk up Astrope Lane is Millhoppers, a nature reserve of particular interest for its butterflies.
Cheddington Airfield is located a short distance up Cheddington Lane. It was the base for many during the war.
What’s Within Easy Reach
This area is perfect for both active and restful breaks. There are many picturesque and historic towns and villages to visit and country walks to enjoy. Sites of interest in this area include:
Tring Reservoirs Country Park and Nature Reserve
Long Marston is within a short drive or an enjoyable walk from Tring Reservoirs. Walkers and ornithologists alike can enjoy this beautiful area.
There are four reservoirs: Marsworth, Startops End, Tringford and Wilstone. These reservoirs supply water for the Grand Union Canal. The area is a National Nature Reserve and a haven for wildlife. The reservoirs are designated as a Site of Special Interest.
There are car parks at Marsworth and near Wilstone.
You can contact British Waterways, Marsworth (01442 825938) or the Friends of Tring Reservoirs for more information.
Canals
The Grand Union Canal and the Aylesbury Arm pass close to Long Marston and offer many interesting walks. Stop and watch the canal boats pass through the locks or see the occasional kingfisher or heron.
Take a cruise or hire a canal boat for the day or longer from Grebe Canal Cruises based at Pitstone Wharf, Pitstone. Telephone: 01296 661920 for more information.
The Walter Rothschild Zoological Museum and Tring Park
Akeman Street, Tring. Originally the private museum of Lord Rothschild, this museum is now part of the Natural History Museum and is one of the best ornithological libraries in the world. This is the place to go to view a large collection of mounted specimens of insects, birds, eggs and stuffed animals. Tring Park was bought recently in order that it might be kept open for informal public enjoyment. Telephone: 020 79426171
Ivinghoe Beacon and Dunstable Downs
Ivinghoe Beacon and Dunstable Downs are nearby. Walk to the top of Ivinghoe Beacon and the view is fantastic. Look out for the Whipsnade White Lion. Ivinghoe Beacon is steeped in history with the ancient roadways Icknield Way passing by here and the Ridgeway starting (or finishing) here.
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