Thame and Chinnor Walking and Cycling Guide
Market towns and Midsomer Murders
Discover the historic market towns of Thame and Chinnor, sitting on the edge of the Chilterns with incredible views of this glorious landscape. Thame is easily explored on foot, with several short and longer walks to follow. You will see the old town hall and ancient church, and on Tuesdays, markets are still held here so you can stock up on supplies for a picnic along the way.
Chinnor is a gateway to the Chiltern Hills opening up miles of varied country. From chalk slopes to woodland you can easily join a trail and surround yourself with nature. You might recognise Chinnor as a location in Midsomer Murders and you can follow a self-guided walk to spot some of the famous sights.
Suggested Thame Walks
Discover the historic sights, take in far-reaching views and get lost amongst the beauty of the Chilterns
Thame offers a great selection of short circular walks that are a fabulous introduction to this charming town. Three historic town trails, the longest of which is 2.5 miles, show off the origins of this Saxon settlement. Following the guides provided by Thame Town Council you can pick up stories along the way. Passing what is now the What’s Cooking deli where the first Penny Black stamp was issued the Prebendal where Robin Gibb once lived.
The Blue Plaques walk highlights more famous Thame residents, showcasing boxers, poets and musicians. Meet James Figg who gained reputation as a boxer, accepting challenges from all contenders at prize fights. See where poet W B Yeats spent time when his son was born in Thame and learn the story of child prodigy Alfredo Campoli, an Italian violinist who retired here.
For a longer walk from Thame, the Phoenix Trail starts here and takes you to Princes Risborough along the route of an old railway line. The 7-mile path features 30 sculptures adding surprises along the way and making the journey more exciting for the whole family.
Suggested Chinnor Walks
Just on the edge of Chinnor are the Old Kiln Lakes, an unusual landscape made from the remains of quarrying. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and the views surrounding the turquoise waters look as if they’re from another planet. Don’t be deceived by these alluring waters, they are highly toxic! A 4km circular route takes in part of the Icknield Way before winding through the lakes.
A circular walk around the Chinnor Hill nature reserve is a popular trail through peaceful woodland and flowery grassland. Fairly steep stretches are rewarded with views of the Vale of Alesbury and there are benches along the way for a rest. There are two Bronze Age burial mounds within the nature reserve amongst the chalk slopes. On your way back at the end of your walk, pop into Chinnor for a pub lunch!
Thame and Chinnor Cycling Routes
From the Chilterns to Oxford.
It’s possible to cycle from Thame to Oxford avoiding the busier roads to enjoy the sights before heading back on the bus. Leaving Thame towards North Weston there is a section following an A-road before joining quieter country lanes to Shabbington and Worminghall along Ickford Road. Passing through Worminghall along Waterperry Road you have views across farmland all around you. From here you reach Wheatley with a choice of pubs and cafes if you need a quick break. Avoid the busy main road into Oxford and join the Old Road which takes you through a bit of off-roading at Shotover Country Park. From here you’re on your way into the centre of Oxford which is very bike friendly.
A popular route in the area is the Chiltern’s Cycleway which passes near Chinnor. Covering 170-miles of this diverse area the easy to follow route takes you along quiet lanes, but be prepared for the hills!
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!
