Chiltern’s Walking and Cycling Guide
Walk amongst sweeping chalk hills and flower-filled woodlands
The dramatic panoramic views of the Chiltern’s encompass the most wondrous landscapes. Stretching over 324 square miles between London and Oxford it is the perfect escape to the grand outdoors. Scattered with hidden villages, remnants of the past and charming country pubs there is so much to explore.
The varying landscapes open opportunities for all levels of walking abilities, including chances for wheelchair users and stile-free routes. A handful of long-distance routes pass through the Chilterns which has established a fantastic network that can be followed over a long weekend. No matter how long you want to walk for, and if you want to stop off for a pub lunch along the way, the possibilities for walking in the Chilterns are endless.
Suggested Chiltern Walks
Discover the historic sights, take in far-reaching views and get lost amongst the beauty of the Chilterns
A great place to start discovering the Chilterns is by following parts of the Chiltern Heritage Trail. This 52-mile circular route is split into eight sections, so you can easily choose where you want to head to that day. You’ll pass a number of picturesque villages on the way, winding through Chesham, Chalfont St Peter, Amersham and Great Miserden. Follow the clearly sign posted route and hop on a bus back to your starting point and a roast dinner when you’ve got your steps in!
Catch a glimpse of the National Trust’s Hughenden Manor along the Downley Common and Hunts Hill walk. This short circular route of just under 3 miles takes you through woodland and skirts open farmland. Passing Hughenden Manor you are rewarded with fantastic views and if you have the time, take a detour to visit this stately home.
One of the long distance national trails that passes through the Chilterns is The Ridgeway. In total it is a gruelling 87 miles and has been used for 5000 years by drovers, traders, invaders and soldiers. Known as Britain’s oldest road it passes burial mounds, Iron Age hillforts and chalk figures taking in the very best of the Chilterns from its high vantage point.
Accessible Walks:
Get up close to the flora and fauna at Ashridge Estate is an ancient woodland filled with a sea of bluebells and the chance to spot deer roaming through. The paths are level without any obstructions welcoming wheelchair users and families with pushchairs. Manual and powered vehicles are available from the visitor centre if required.
Wendover Woods has something for everybody. Longer walks, fitness trails, and a well-surfaced hilltop trail for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There’s also a play trail for children with nature inspired play structures. After a walk stay for a picnic!
Running between Princes Risborough and Thame, the Phoenix Trail has magnificent views of the Chiltern Hills. The flat route is easily accessible and along the way there are 30 artworks inspired by the old railway line and the surrounding landscapes.
Chiltern Cycling Routes
The Chilterns can be explored in longer sections, or more relaxing trails.
The Chilterns is quite possibly one of the most accessible regions, and cycling here is no different. Following the 170-mile circular route of the Chilterns Cycleway you pass through four counties, taking in some of the best landscapes on offer. 95% of the route follows quieter routes but as you’d expect from this region, there are some hills along the way! If you want to take on the challenge of covering the entire route you’ll need to be a confident cyclist.
For a gentler ride, the Phoenix Trail is a great family friendly choice as it is an easy to follow, seven miles. The Nickey Line, also seven miles, is a former railway line running between Harpended and Hemel Hempstead. Pass through tree lines sections and open countryside as you enjoy this easy to follow route.
Chiltern Cycle Hire
Based near Wendover Woods, OTEC Cycle Hire offer road, electric, mountain, gravel and hybrid bikes for hire, ready for any adventure! Collection and drop off can be arranged from local train stations. Exclusively offering electric bikes, Electric Life Cycling are based in Ivinghoe. Take the hard work out of a bike ride and feel the freedom of an electric bike, so you can explore further easier!
