Solo Hiking & Wild Camping in Storm Alex | Ridgeway Link - The Chilterns

Thought I'd head out in the storm but Alex was surprisingly kind to me! I walked the Ridgeway Link trail from Dunstable Downs to Ivinghoe beacon and back again, a total of 18.5 miles in the rain, with an overnight stop for a wild camp in the woods.
GEAR LIST : wildbeare.weebly.com/adventur...
The Ridgeway Link connects the end of the National Ridgeway Trail to Dunstable Downs & transport links. It's a 7.5 mile route of woodland and rolling hills that starts at Ivinghoe Beacon and passes through the edge of Ashridge Forest, the village of Dagnall, Whipsnade Golf Course, Whipsnade Wild Animal Park and Whipsnade Tree Cathedral before ending at Dunstable Downs
Route information for the Ridgeway Link Trail can be found here; www.chilternsaonb.org/ccbmaps...
There's a map here; www.chilternsaonb.org/uploads...
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[@gcoudert]

I discovered your channel yesterday after watching hundreds of camping / survival videos from all over the world, only to realise that I was a teacher at your secondary school when you were there, although I never actually taught you. All the best. Mr Coudert.

[@ianmangham4570]

Trip

[@8008mattingly]

Love how you talk to all the animals even the smallest bugs. Keep making videos great channel

[@grahamsmith8934]

I love your attitude, and the way you say "Hello" to all the animals you meet is adorable 🥰

[@keithshwalbe6981]

What a beautiful happy spirited young lady you are. I'm an old fart of 70 myself, but I share your joy of this world. I still camp wild now and then, when my health allows. You have a good soul bonny lass. Thank you for taking us on the adventure with you. Glad I didn't add anything too your pack weight lol. Take care, and stay safe love. Your video was joyful, and gave me a lot of happiness. . Thank you xxxx

[@WildBeare]

Hi Keith, thanks so much, I hope when I am 70 I am still getting out there, what a legend you are! Have a lovely evening, Claire

[@keithshwalbe6981]

@@WildBeare . . You will be Claire, nature is in your soul darling. It will always call you, have no fear. Stay safe love, all the best, Keith xxx

[@agnesskibicka]

@@keithshwalbe6981 as nature calls for me!! Greetings from Poland and my small channel 😀

[@keithshwalbe6981]

@@agnesskibicka . . Hello Agnes, it's nice too hear from you. Stay safe and healthy Agnes, and have a lovely time. Wishing you all the best. Regards Keith xx

[@agnesskibicka]

@@keithshwalbe6981 Thank you very much 😊 You too!!

[@markwagoner3599]

I learned a long time ago that if you keep your head, feet, and hands warm, the rest will take care of itself. I am too old and sick to be out there anymore, but that's how I always did it.

[@70something.89]

There's no doubt by today's standard you're crazy and I think it's absolutely wonderful. Never mind Ivinghoe you're the Beacon for your generation. Showing everyone what life's about. You're an inspiration long may you continue.

[@WildBeare]

Aw thank you so much Griff, that's very kind of you to say! 💙 Have a lovely week :) Claire

[@TheZippyMark]

"This is what we're designed for" ❤ That's exactly how I feel when camping or walking through a forest. That even though I've been raised in a city, something stirs when brought back to nature.

[@1951woodygeo]

Nothing beats it when I was a kid growing up in Glasgow I would head out to the Forests around Loch Lomond and the Trossach’s and camp to my hearts content, I ended up working there as a Ranger for a decade . Great times

[@stephencopps1561]

"mask,hand sanitizer..."seems decades ago not three years 😂

[@richardbrabbs8283]

There's nothing like the sound of rain on a tent one of the best thing in life always feel better after a night of that noise

[@marykay55]

Always disappointed when it rained when we were camping. Hated it and it made everything damp and not to mention the mud.

[@terrieyeakley82]

@@marykay55 ?,

[@robertdavies3460]

Pitching and striking camp is exponentially more difficult in the rain, trying to keep the inside of the tent and sleeping bag dry can be so difficult.

[@markofdistinction6094]

Its surreal when the rain changes to snow. Every sound in the forest goes silent. Its more than just an absence of noise ... its a dampening of all sound, even from within the tent.

[@johnmcquay82]

Camping holidays are what my brother and I were brought up with; my parent's weren't particularly well off, so holidays abroad were off the table, and holidays to places like Butlins didn't appeal to them at all...they did to my brother and I to a degree, but we didn't complain. We've been all over the country camping, and loved every moment. One of the best experiences was around 20 years ago; camping in Snowdonia National Park there was a huge thunderstorm overnight...the light show was spectacular and Mum got some amazing photographs.

[@domo3552]

You've been living life mate! 🙂

[@cityzens634]

I can totally relate to you. I took my family to Croatia a few years ago and watched a nightly storm light show from the balcony of our villa.

[@randystache78]

Sounds AMAZING! It really is the little things that make life great.

[@Nobby77]

Your enthusiasm is infectious. Loved it

[@WildBeare]

Thank you! :D

[@shaunmasters7211]

I love that you say hi to all of the bugs and animals :-) brilliant to see your positive outlook, even when you are soaking wet. Great watch

[@WildBeare]

Thank you Shaun :D

[@ducksnutsphotography]

When people say that they could watch you all day.....I actually did and I loved every second.

[@charlesmarshall2614]

Even though I’m halfway across the world, I truly enjoy going on these trips with you. :) I’ve learned a lot, been inspired to get out there, and I think your personality is simply adorable. That you certainly add to the beauty of the places you go is impossible not to see, I must admit. I admire how you insist on fully experiencing the natural world around you. From swimming at a waterfall to taking in the stars, these videos show us what’s out there if we have a little courage to come see. Thank you!!

[@charlesrose5758]

WONDERFUL! I live in the desert and although it has it's own beauty, it's dry (as you'd expect). I long for the the rain and the lushness of the trees, sleeping in a tent during a thunderstorm, the smell of fresh soaked earth. Watching your adventures motivates me to get up into the mountains. Thank you for sharing.❤

[@ELmerC-ms4cg]

Amen ❤. You never fails to entertain me. I'm 67 years old.backpackin hiking saved my ❤ thx for the inspiration luv ya🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@Tipi_Dan]

A graceful hand adorned with an exotic tattoo points meaningfully across a misty, rain soaked landscape... and I am taken, captured, enthralled. I may be lost forever now.

[@mikenadanada7430]

Ok the little skip down the path around the 10min mark made me an instant subscriber... That put a smile on my face😃

[@1uniqueislander968]

"Life is what you make it.." well said 👍Enjoying your wild camping video vlogs. Since my first camping experiences during my first Solo Bicycle touring in East Asia I come to love, appreciate and respect more for Mother Nature and the life within. Its wonderful, being alone in a peaceful place that's full of life.. I could feel natures energy and that's the beauty of it all. No shame in me, I also love to greet the trees, plants, insects and animals. ☺ Cheers!

[@steveb1972]

I came to your channel as a suggestion and glad of it! “Don’t waste them on baby food, fill ‘em with alcohol!” My new favourite camping suggestion! Greetings from Brum!👍🏻

[@WildBeare]

Haha, glad you liked it :D

[@jimsarranadventures3005]

Hi Claire. You are a true ambassador to the outdoors community. Cheers, Jim.

[@myempireofdirt9012]

I love the way you say hello to everything, even mushrooms. Great video and great comments especially at the end. Looking forward to your videos

[@WildBeare]

Thank you Paul! Glad you enjoyed it :) yep I like to get in there with the wild things.. even though they likely find me highly annoying hahaha. Have a great eve! Claire

[@thenightraven60]

@@WildBeare and i thought it was only me that did that.

[@timberbenjamin]

Haha yeah me too. And also that the humans were the exception! And skipping!!! I get a sore arm though from waving to everyone you greet

[@KP11520]

You're one of the special ones! Thank you for all the sunshine! It was grand!

[@WildBeare]

Haha thanks! :D

[@gooner1ization]

rain on a tent is one of the best relaxations i can think of

[@12345gerrard]

I totally get it, it's strange how putting ourselves through hardship and the wild makes us love it even more!

[@gunlokman]

I love your videos. Somehow it feels like I'm actually on the walk with you - weird but great! Your commentary, enthusiasm, practicality and scenic-type interest is outstanding. You even make the rain nice . . . go girl!

[@jamessweet5341]

Must be as peaceful there as it is lovely. I envy you and your countrymen that peace of mind. It just isn't safe to do that here anymore.

[@blackbear9326]

"Leave no trace" brilliant. Your enthusiasm is catching. Be good in the wood. Stay safe on your travels Huni..... cheers from Bonnie Scotland. 🇬🇧

[@kurtarkangel9909]

Claire, you are inspiring! I truly enjoy your honest, unpretentious commentary. Thanks for the content, I can't wait to see what is next. Kurt

[@francisdooley2322]

I like you loads, I went camping on me own first time 4 weeks ago and loved it,I’m a 70 year old man and I’m no we’re as brave as you. Good luck to you mate.

[@weller5290]

Great video. Your enthusiasm is infectious, determination is admirable, and it's great that you show that you don't need all the expensive gear. Well done

[@Wwehrwolfoz]

This is the best solo pitch. She’s smart fun to watch play and very real, love this woman adventure!!!!

[@RYNGIN]

I was a certified guide on the west coast of North America. Love the video. I use to have to carry 100plus lbs. Just to have enough food and water for people. 😎 Love it!❤

[@silentbutdeadly7032]

I love your attitude! Don't let fear stop you from doing what you love! Good stuff, keep it coming. Glad I stumbled on your channel!

[@steveprice876]

Just started to watch your channel. Great report on the tent and is a terrific idea for two people, especially with the two doorways. I think you were spot on with your encouragement to get out there.

[@HD-dz4uk]

Really enjoyed watching someone do something they really wanted to share with people. I've watched a couple now and like your enthusiasm, you can't not like a happy camper. Thanks for the treat.

[@aviationwales3021]

I love the sound of rain on a tent when camping. It makes it so more relaxing. Great video as normal, stay safe.

[@paulblackburn4245]

Your positive outlook is quite refreshing. Nice location

[@WildBeare]

Aw thank you Paul :)

[@jediknightofthewoods]

Love your thought process! Great watching! You don't necessarily need expensive kit, but you do need the right kit, and knowledge goes a long way. I got to say you are a breath of fresh air in this area! That's a crazy amount of distance you covered there too!!

[@WildBeare]

Aw thanks! Very true. It's taken me 3 and a half years to get suitable winter kit. Would not recommend trying it in winter without 😬😆

[@davidoergel8710]

Agreed. Nothing like being out in nature. You Go Girl!

[@Improveng1]

Lovely Claire, thank you for taking us with you on your little adventures. Keep staying beautiful on the inside as well as on the outside. Love and peace from Derbyshire.

[@masterblaster9304]

Very good you done it on your own. I love being out in the sticks. When I was in the army we put our wet socks in the sleeping bag with us you would be surprised how dry they are in the morning.

[@richarddavidjohn6803]

Cycled the ridgeway a few times. I love it there! Usually kipping in a bivy bag.

[@carolenicklin6460]

Love the way you show us as you’re walking the journey. Feels like we’re with you all the way. Thank you for that as I can’t get out anymore 😊x

[@ffstopP]

Love your videos. Thanks for taking us along. Enjoyed the pitter pat of the rain on the tent.

[@finger351]

I was born and raised in a town but the wilderness still feels like home, I feel like I can breathe out there.

[@harrylongstride4083]

Thank you for sharing your adventure, and the tip of using a baby food pouch 😃👍 outstanding!

[@WildBeare]

Haha, glad you found it useful 😄 have a great weekend, Claire

[@sgbradley]

Your videos are peaceful for a Canadian winter night.

[@evangelistcryinginthewilde6380]

'Life is what you make it' ....very true. Great videos Claire.👍

[@Bob-Horse]

Thank you for this. You are really lovely and it took me back to my youth when I did very much the same sort of thing. Love being warm and huddled up in a tent when it’s raining outside. Btw, hope you don’t mind me mentioning, but I was always told to walk on the right side of a road when you can, as you see any approaching traffic and vehicles approaching from behind will be on the other side to you. Walking on the left means you don’t see vehicles coming up behind you on the same side as you. Thanks again 👍☺️

[@adriancaldwell]

Just joined the channel - you have a great attitude and making me feel rubbish for ducking out of camping in bad weather :)

[@flatbrokefrank6482]

I am soooo glad your at home out there - without any worries peoples pre conceived ideas can put up barriers that are not really there - have fun, stay safe

[@robertdavies3460]

You're right, camping is good for the soul. There's something primeval about being at one with nature. I love your enthusiasm.

[@jediknightofthewoods]

Not sure how on earth your channel appeared on my feed but glad it did! So close to my stomping grounds too, the chilterns, such a beautiful and vastly underrated area to call home!

[@WildBeare]

Thanks, isn't it just! :D

[@martinfrancis4606]

Such a great video. You make me want to get out right now!!!

[@WildBeare]

Aw thanks Martin! :D

[@sibaldi2922]

Great little chat at the end, very helpful in respect of kit and also motivational. The outdoors is great for the soul, as you say. Keep up these fabulous videos😊👌

[@rustybeddingfield227]

There is definitely something magical about lying on flat on your back upon the earth, you almost feel embraced by the planet, no floating off into space, no, she holds us safe in her grasp. Mother Nature is an absolute genius. We totally Belong here.

[@mattcarr3798]

Fantastic video, brilliant 👍

[@WildBeare]

Aw thank you Matt! Have a nice eve, Claire

[@jonrose5114]

Another great video! You sure go to some amazing places even when they aren't deep in the wilderness. There isn't anything named after Ivanhoe here in Michigan.😅 I've been called crazy for saying the best sleep ever is in a tent while its pouring rain. However it's a scientifically proven fact that every day spent in the woods adds days to our life expectancy. Looking forward to every video!

[@stephendavies923]

Claire, just to say the same as many others, you are inspirational and your humour is wonderful.

[@xcaceuk]

Another inspirational video Claire 🦋 Life is what you make it .... Watching your adventure in my tent wild camping in Scotland, but love wild camping closer to home ... it’s what we were made to do 🎶

[@JRPOutdoors]

Hats off for keeping your spirits up in weather like that and I agree, it's bloody grand for the soul! Ice cream man saved you from drinking from a puddle too 😂 have subbed and looking forward to the next! Ta, John.

[@WildBeare]

Thanks John! Yep, good ol' ice cream man saved the day there. Still, I've filtered from worse than a puddle in a tight spot haha :D Claire

[@hArtyTruffle]

It definitely could have been a lynx. There are wild cats. They have plenty of wildlife to hunt though so adult humans are not at risk. You’re a wonderful inspiration Beare. I need to do what you’re doing for sure ❤️👊🏼✨

[@siok4375]

It's been a year my friend, have you begun? If not get out there already. A friendly message from your sub conscious 👍

[@hArtyTruffle]

@@siok4375 That’s so very kind and thoughtful of you. Thankyou 🙂 I’m struggling still, but I’ll get there 🫶🏻🎄

[@Tom-sd9jb]

I grew up round there and pretty sure I've seen a huge black cat near Ivinghoe one night when I was out walking and stargazing. Lots of stories of big cats in that area. There's been lots of sightings of big black cats in nearby towns too.

[@12345gerrard]

I think people to connect with nature is really important and can open a lot of joy that is important to embrace

[@Tunaman1]

Such a cool path all the connecting pathways and almost secret gates , Your such a joyful soul ❤️

[@womblingsimian]

"Don't waste them on baby food. Put alcohol in them." Hahaha, perfect!

[@jimpark2491]

Well done you, at least you get warm rain in your part of Britain.

[@WildBeare]

Thanks haha yes it's not to bad darrrrn saaaaarf :D

[@tonysmith1783]

Once again thank you, brilliant video. I really appreciated the explanation about not needing all the expensive gear.

[@chrisgonecamping]

I appreciate your thoughts what to consider when going for hike and pitch. A breath of fresh air compared to other camping videos I've watched. It's clear you love nature. Get up and enjoy life before life might / hope not! A disability. Thank you for your videos !

[@simona4442]

Love the video, I would be scared shitless, please stay safe x

[@WildBeare]

Haha I will, thanks :D

[@trudysimms1564]

I think you are very brave camping on your own. It takes a lot of courage to do that. Are you not concerned however about being disturbed by someone? If I was camping it would be completely off the beaten track and no where near a public footpath. You have true grit, extremely admirable. Good luck to you and keep on keeping on! 😉

[@bigteno4597]

Enjoyed this one so much! Thank you and God bless.

[@davidshelley6598]

Great! Loved your encouragement for beginners and solo gals. Thanks

[@shaun6150]

Step away from the screens recommend your channel glad I took his advice great vid mate enjoyed your adventure 😊👍

[@chrisclendenin1832]

I came over here as well from Lee’s reference Claire is super cool

[@WildBeare]

Aw thank you! So nice of Lee to give me a shout out :D

[@windhamearl4544]

Its gotta be great to camp and hike and not have to think about bear and cougars. Thanks for your channel! Keep at it!

[@bulgiriri]

Exactly! Here in Canada and USA is hard and more dangerous 😒

[@siok4375]

To be fair you guys do get guns and we don't but I get your point .

[@ahoskova7591]

@@siok4375 In Canada, no. Only in certain parts you are allowed firearms for the purpose of defending yourself and it is heavily regulated.

[@paulworgan6599]

There are legends that there are big cats like panthers in the British countryside

[@aadmonk]

I have really been enjoying your KZbin channel. Seeing you skipping down the path, and hearing the excitement in your voice as you caught the ice cream man made me smile.

[@Lynkevmusic]

really enjoyable to watch your videos. theres an easy going pace to them. well done.

[@koshtie]

Hi great video, i treated myself to a RAB accent 900 it's toastie, no more cold sleeps for me, a bag you can turn in ok, packs well, keep it dry & it will serve you well, hope this helps ? new sub from me, ATB Wayne.......

[@WildBeare]

Thanks Wayne! I got a Leviathan but Rab 900 will probably be the next one. Working my way up haha

[@chrisb9345]

Loved the vid. However the camera shaking when you walk made me feel totally nauseated in full screen, or even theatre mode. The only way to make it less barf-central was to reduce the screen to normal default youtube view, which sucks.

[@BrownPeterAnthony]

Good on you for getting out there, and great advise to people wanting to give it a try.. A light weight tarp (plus cords) tied to trees above the tent is a great addition, keeps your tent dry and catches water. I am sure everyone appreciated watching and seeing your country, thanks for your post.

[@malcolmhales8181]

I'm glad to see I'm not the only person who speaks to all the wildlife and plants 😂❤

[@richardthomson203]

No idea who the we is, looks like you were alone on the outing, and just filming it. Interesting use of dialect, you call it a parth in Scotland we call it path. Inflatable pillows nooooo!

[@brianpetersen2364]

A Scotsman sarcastically dissing an English accent, ahh the irony 😆😆

[@glennkimber9715]

More memories to look back on, in the grey matter. As a cadet back at the end of the 70's, we walked the Ridgeway from ivinghoe beacon to Avebury, over 6 days, averaging 18 miles a day, can't do that now 😂 Thanks for the great video

[@efrenechebaria2788]

Great video! You’re so full of energy, enthusiastic and free spirited. Awesome, thanks for sharing. Looking forward to watch your wonderful adventures.

[@WildBeare]

Aw thanks so much Efren! Glad yu enjoyed :D Claire

[@grandadsartspace5805]

Hi just found your channel and you have brought back some great memories of when I walk the Ridgeway in the late 70s and had to take water with me with a 70lb pack in the heat of summer but loved every moment of it . Thank you for this lovely footage , oh to be young and adventurous .

[@bathcolin]

A real joy to watch Claire. I'm so glad I'm not the only one who talks and says hi to the animals/mushrooms etc. Love it. You have made me smile. I will look out for your vids in the future. Meanwhile take care eh? Keep communing with nature! ;-) Regards, Colin.

[@billrichardson8841]

Been subscribed for a wee while now. Really enjoy the videos. You're like a lot of us, just getting out and doing your best and having fun. Watched for a wee while and gone back to the start, which I haven't watched before.

[@edro3838]

😂 I’ve managed to get lost. So honest and straight forward, I love that!

[@wildgoatmtb5361]

Lots of smiles. Plenty of wisdom too. Another shout for Cumulus sleeping bags or quilts.

[@liquidatorcfc1621]

Great vid Claire love the South Beds accent and the familiarity of local places I visit. Keep up the good work you’re very talented and brave too!

[@EPGunman]

That was a great little overnighter!! Awesome view and location. Your attitude and enjoyment brings a lot of happiness to people so if for nothing else thank you for that!!! I will say though the sleepy blinking eyes had me!!! Take care and glad to see someone enjoying life!!

[@jimmybrooks1059]

Nothing like camping and cooking in a dry tent on a rainy day. And don't you just love those long Jonts in the rain rucking about.👍😁⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@rayingram6012]

Enjoyed your vid...getting outdoors is the best mental therapy...being at one with nature so to speak...great exercise too..thanks 😊

[@WildBeare]

Thanks Ray glad you enjoyed it :) it is indeed. Have a great eve! Claire

[@jamescleary5198]

First video I’ve seen from you and was a good watch, looking forward to seeing some more 👍🏼

[@davidhale1568]

Tip...if in similar circumstances again regarding lack of water but raining, position pots under a dripping run off point of the fly sheet. The pots will fill up much quicker 🙂

[@eppityrrell8236]

All the animals look at you when you say hi 🥰

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

I love the sound of rain you are a great inspiration nice one

[@martinoconnor6924]

Awesome video, love what you say near the end, that this is what we are built for and how good it is for the soul, just what I needed to hear, just getting out there to do it, I'm in Luton and was never aware that you could wild camp so close to home, thanks for sharing your experiance with us all top girl!!

[@ThisWontEndWell]

I love it up on Ivinghoe beacon with the hawks and red kites in eye line just hovering in the air as they hut in the fields below, feels like you just reach out and touch them.

[@Tom-sd9jb]

I grew up near the beacon. I absolutely loved it there. Spent many a day and nights sitting above Pitstone with my dog and I remember teaching my little brother how to find the North star. I can't wait to move back to the area and take my daughter there when she's a little older. I have to say, I have never camped out there though which I'd love to do. Thanks for making all these great videos!

[@raytheron]

What a lovely video! You are indeed fortunate to have that kind of country around you to hike and camp in. Definitely subscribing!