The best walks and hikes in Buckinghamshire

Embark on the Old Amersham to Little Missendon loop, a moderate hike through the picturesque Chiltern Hills. You will experience rolling chalk hills and extensive woodlands, characteristic of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The route takes you past the tranquil Shardeloes Lake, where you can enjoy views of the historic Shardeloes Manor. This 6.4-mile (10.3 km) journey involves an elevation gain of 259 feet (79 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete. It offers a pleasant blend of natural scenery and charming village life.

Starting your hike in Old Amersham is convenient, as the village provides options for both car parking and public transport. While the path surfaces vary between natural trails, asphalt, and paved sections, be aware that some parts can become muddy, particularly near Coleshill. Consider wearing appropriate footwear, especially after rain. This trail is generally accessible, and some variations are even designed to be stile-free, which can be helpful if you are using an all-terrain pushchair.

This loop is a prime example of the Chiltern Hills experience, showcasing the region's unique geology and verdant landscapes. As you pass through charming villages like Little Missenden, you will encounter historic buildings and local pubs, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local environment and history, making it a notable option for a half-day exploration in the area.

Embark on the Ashridge Estate Wildlife Walk, an easy hike spanning 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 480 feet (146 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic route in about 1 hour and 47 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you follow the path, you will experience diverse and picturesque scenery, transitioning from open views to varied woodlands. Keep an eye out for the impressive Bridgewater Monument, a significant landmark that anchors this beautiful estate, and enjoy the distinct scent of conifers as you pass through the pine woodlands.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient amenities available right at the starting point. You will find refreshments, toilets, and car parking facilities located near the Bridgewater Monument, making for an easy start and finish to your adventure. While the trail is generally accessible, be aware that some of the smaller tracks can become muddy after rain. If you are planning to use a buggy or wheelchair, these sections might be less suitable during wet conditions, so consider checking the weather beforehand.

This route is particularly known for its focus on the natural world, offering you a chance to observe the local fauna. The Ashridge Estate is home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your senses alert for deer, rare butterflies, and numerous bird species throughout your journey. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural environment and appreciate the rich biodiversity of this historic estate.

Embark on an easy hike along The Path of the Brave, Stowe, a gentle route that winds through the historic Stowe Gardens. This trail spans 4.3 miles (6.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 151 feet (46 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete this pleasant journey in approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes, enjoying the serene landscape and architectural features as you go. Keep an eye out for the elegant Palladian Bridge and the grand Temple of Concord and Victory, which offer picturesque views.

Before you visit, remember that Stowe Gardens is a National Trust property, so admission fees may apply. It is always a good idea to check their official website for the most current information regarding opening times, ticket prices, and any specific access requirements. Parking is generally available on-site, which makes planning your trip straightforward. Ensure you have comfortable footwear for this easy-going path.

This route offers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of both natural and architectural beauty within the historic estate. As you hike, you will gain glimpses into the estate's past, encountering structures like the Gothic Temple and the impressive South Facade of Stowe House. The Path of the Brave provides a tranquil escape, allowing you to connect with centuries of history and carefully curated landscapes.

Embark on the Rough Park and Shardeloes Lake loop from Amersham, a moderate hike spanning 6.6 miles (10.6 km) with an elevation gain of 269 feet (82 metres). This tranquil route, which you can complete in about 2 hours and 47 minutes, offers diverse terrain and picturesque scenery. You will enjoy beautiful views of Shardeloes Lake, a man-made lake nestled within the historic Shardeloes Estate, and pass by the imposing Shardeloes Manor. The trail continues through fields alongside the River Misbourne, blending designed historical parkland with natural woodland and agricultural land, providing expansive views across the lake and the Chilterns landscape.

While generally considered a moderate hike, requiring good fitness, the paths are mostly accessible and suitable for various skill levels. Some sections, particularly around Shardeloes Manor and the lake's edge, are described as a level walk, even suitable for all-terrain pushchairs. However, be aware that some parts beyond Toby's Lane can become overgrown, so appropriate footwear and clothing, like a thornproof jacket, may be advisable. The trail starts and ends conveniently in Amersham, making it easy to access for a day out.

This area is rich in wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for bird-watching, especially for waterfowl on Shardeloes Lake. Keep an eye out for Muntjac and Roe Deer, which are often sighted along the trails in the surrounding woodlands. The historic significance of the route is evident as you pass Shardeloes Manor and traverse parkland laid out by Humphrey Repton in 1793. If you wish to extend your adventure, nearby walks can lead you to the charming village of Little Missenden, known for its ancient church, manor house, and pubs.

Embark on the Marlow & Thames Path loop, an easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, with a gentle elevation gain of just 37 feet (11 metres). This picturesque route winds through varied terrain, from solid asphalt near town to looser ground in fields and deer pastures, all while offering continuous views of the River Thames. You will pass by ancient woodlands and chalk hills, experiencing the tranquil atmosphere of the Buckinghamshire countryside.

This accessible trail is a popular choice for families and those seeking a less strenuous walk, often starting conveniently from Marlow Station. While generally level, be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable. After your hike, you can easily access Marlow's restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments.

The trail's constant riverside presence provides a scenic backdrop, where you might spot swans and wild geese. Marlow itself is a vibrant Georgian market town, home to the iconic 19th-century suspension bridge designed by William Tierney Clark. The town also has historical ties to Mary Shelley, who completed *Frankenstein* here, and boasts a prestigious rowing club that has produced Olympic athletes.

Embark on a moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) hike through the Latimer House & Lane Wood loop, offering a diverse landscape of rolling hills and ancient woodlands in the Chilterns. This route, typically completed in about 2 hours and 25 minutes with an elevation gain of 428 feet (130 metres), treats you to picturesque views of the historic Latimer House and the scenic Chess Valley, looking down upon the River Chess. You will experience a mix of open meadows and the quiet beauty of Lane Wood, home to various tree species like oak and beech.

Be prepared for varied terrain on this trail, which includes a combination of paths, footpaths, and some road sections, ranging from unpaved to asphalt. While generally accessible, some sections feature fairly steep climbs and descents. After rain, paths can become muddy and slippery, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The route also involves navigating kissing gates, which might present a challenge if you are using a wheelchair.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in history; Latimer House played a significant secret role during World War II, similar in importance to Bletchley Park, by bugging German prisoners of war. The route often overlaps with sections of the well-regarded Chess Valley Walk and the broader Chiltern Heritage Trail. You will also encounter the River Chess, a rare clear chalk stream habitat, and might spot wildlife such as deer, badgers, and foxes within Lane Wood.

The Chiltern Hills Three-in-One Walk is a difficult hiking route that takes you through varied landscapes, from ancient woodlands to open meadows. You'll experience undulating hills with fairly steep climbs and descents, offering wide countryside views. The trail covers 12.1 miles (19.5 km) with an elevation gain of 1098 feet (335 metres), typically taking 5 hours and 23 minutes to complete. As you hike, you can enjoy views of West Wycombe House and West Wycombe Park from the Dashwood Mausoleum. Expect sunlight filtering through tree canopies in places like Bradenham Wood and Park Wood. This challenging route provides a rewarding outing for experienced hikers.

Before you set out, be ready for varied terrain, including footpaths through fields and woodlands. The route features fairly steep climbs and descents, so wear appropriate footwear, especially since sections can be muddy and slippery after rain. You will also walk along quieter roads and need to cross busy roads twice during your hike. Plan your visit to allow ample daylight hours for this substantial outing.

This trail is notable for showcasing the diverse character of the Chilterns National Landscape. It combines the natural beauty of ancient woodlands and open countryside with glimpses of historical estates. The route offers a comprehensive experience of the region's unique blend of natural and cultural heritage, making it a standout option for those wanting to explore the area in depth.

This difficult 12.0-mile (19.3 km) hike through the Chiltern Hills will take you about 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete, climbing 537 feet (164 metres) along the way. You'll find yourself walking along the River Thames, enjoying picturesque views around Hambleden Lock and Weir, a historic site mentioned by Charles Dickens. The route then leads you through the charming village of Hambleden and into the peaceful, beech-capped Pullingshill Wood, part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Expect varied terrain, including footpaths, hiking paths, and some paved sections, with stunning views over the Thames Valley from higher points like Bloom Wood.

Be prepared for a challenging experience, as this route requires a very good level of fitness. You should wear sturdy shoes, especially since some parts, particularly between Hambleden and Rotten Row, can be muddy. The trail includes two significant climbs, one out of Hambleden and another up to Marlow Common, along with several steady descents. Plan your visit to allow ample time to complete the loop comfortably, keeping in mind the varied path types.

Beyond the natural beauty, this loop offers unique historical insights. Within Pullingshill Wood, you can observe the faint remains of ditches and trenches used to train troops before World War I. The wood is also a designated site of special scientific interest, home to diverse ground flora, including the rare ghost orchid. Hambleden Lock and Weir itself has a long history, with its earliest recorded lock dating back to 1338, adding a rich historical layer to your outdoor adventure.

Embark on the Lacey Green Windmill circular, a moderate 8.4-mile (13.6 km) hike through the picturesque Chiltern Hills. This route, which typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete, offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills, ancient beech woodlands, and open chalk grasslands. You will encounter gently undulating paths, some unpaved and others gravel, leading you past the historic 17th-century Lacey Green Windmill, the oldest smock windmill in the country.

When planning your visit, be aware that certain sections of the trail, especially along Grim's Ditch or in low-lying areas, can become extremely muddy during winter or after heavy rain. While the paths are generally accessible, some ascents and descents require good fitness. The varied terrain ensures an engaging experience, but it's wise to check weather conditions beforehand to prepare for potentially muddy stretches.

This trail is a highlight within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its expansive views overlooking the ancient landscape from points like Brush Hill Viewpoint. Beyond the iconic windmill, you can explore Brush Hill Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife, and follow sections of Grim's Ditch, an ancient earthwork. The area's chalk grasslands, grazed by sheep, support beautiful wildflowers and butterfly populations, adding to the unique character of your hike.