The best walks and hikes around The Lee
4.6
(2423)
15,395
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking around The Lee explores the landscape of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and well-marked footpaths that connect traditional English villages. The network of trails offers a mix of gentle and moderate routes, suitable for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around The Lee
- The most popular hiking route is The Cock and Rabbit β The Lee Village Green loop from Cholesbury-cum-St Leonards, a 5.9 mile (9.4 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to complete. This moderate hike follows paths through woodland and open fields.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Chiltern Hills Cottage β The Lee Village Green loop from The Lee, an easy 2.6 mile (4.2 km) path. The route is mostly flat and passes through the village and surrounding countryside.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the The Lee Village Green β The Cock and Rabbit loop from The Lee, a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail leading through a mix of fields and wooded areas, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Walks around The Lee village Buckinghamshire are defined by ancient woodlands, rolling chalk hills, and paths through agricultural landscapes. The trail system provides options for both short, gentle walks and longer, more moderate hikes.
- The routes in The Lee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,100 reviews. More than 14,000 hikers have used komoot to explore The Lee's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
4.21km
01:06
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
9
hikers
8.91km
02:25
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
7
hikers
3.55km
00:56
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is a triangulation pillar in the wood, unnamed on OS Maps, at 232m. It's always curious to see these in the middle of the forest; I am guessing this one had been placed here before the area was forested, and previously there would have been a view from here. The wood itself is a pleasant way to walk in, with wide, comfortable forest tracks.
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As English villages in the Chiltern Hills go, this one is one of the most attractive. This is the kind of place I tend to think of when I read Agatha Christie's Miss Marple. The village name is Anglo-Saxon and means "a woodland clearing". Another little fun fact: Sir Arthur Lasenby Liberty (1843β1917), proprietor of the famous Regent Street (London) store, Liberty & Co., lived here and built a Manor house here in 1900. He was associated with the Art Nouveau style.
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Enjoy this picture-postcard moment of a quintessential Chiltern Hills cottage nestled in a grassy valley.
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The Cock and Rabbit is located on the outskirts of Great Missenden in the Chiltern Hills. It serves up real ales and delicious food in a cosy setting, making it a perfect stop on your walk.
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As you climb along the ridgeway toward Wendover Woods, you can enjoy some sublime views across the magnificent Chiltern Hills in all directions.
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There are several single-track paths here to dive deeper into the woods. However, please wear appropriate footwear as it can get pretty muddy and slippery during the shoulder seasons.
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Lovely village green near Lee Common. A few good benches for a pause, especially if you've just come up one of the hills leading to the green.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around The Lee suitable for dogs?
Yes, the area around The Lee is generally dog-friendly. The numerous footpaths through woodlands and open fields offer great walking opportunities for you and your dog. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially when crossing fields with livestock, and keep your dog on a lead where required.
Can I do a circular walk that starts and ends at a pub?
Absolutely. The region is known for its classic pub walks. A great option is the The Lee Village Green β The Cock and Rabbit loop from The Lee. This short, easy walk takes you through fields and woods, starting and finishing near a traditional village pub, making it perfect for a post-hike refreshment.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, The Lee has several gentle routes perfect for a family outing. For a pleasant and mostly flat walk, consider the Chiltern Hills Cottage β The Lee Village Green loop from The Lee. At just over 4 km, it's a manageable distance for little legs and provides a lovely introduction to the Chilterns scenery.
Where can I park to start a walk near The Lee?
Most walks in the area begin from The Lee village itself, where you can find on-street parking. Please park considerately, as it is a small village. Some routes may also start from nearby villages like Cholesbury, which also offers some roadside parking options. It's best to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
How do I get to The Lee using public transport?
The nearest train stations to The Lee are in Great Missenden and Wendover, both served by Chiltern Railways from London Marylebone. From the stations, you would need to take a local bus service or a taxi to reach The Lee village, as it is a few miles away. Check local bus timetables for services running to the village.
What is the terrain like on the trails around The Lee?
The trails feature the classic Chilterns landscape: rolling hills, ancient beech woodlands, and open farmland. You'll encounter a mix of well-trodden footpaths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes. While many routes are gentle, some moderate hikes include short, steeper sections through the hills.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a more substantial walk, the The Cock and Rabbit β The Lee Village Green loop from Cholesbury-cum-St Leonards is a moderate hike of over 9 km. The Lee also serves as a gateway to long-distance paths like The Ridgeway and the Chiltern Way, allowing you to plan much longer treks through the region.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The Chiltern Hills are rich in wildlife. As you walk through the woodlands and fields, keep an eye out for deer and badgers. The area is particularly famous for the Red Kites that were successfully reintroduced here; you can often see them soaring majestically overhead.
Are there any good viewpoints to aim for on a walk?
While the immediate trails offer beautiful rolling scenery, one of the most famous viewpoints in the wider area is Coombe Hill. Located a short drive or a longer hike from The Lee, it is the highest point in the Chilterns and offers panoramic views across the Aylesbury Vale. It also features a prominent monument dedicated to the Boer War.
What do other hikers say about the trails in The Lee?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the beautiful ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the quintessential English countryside scenery. The mix of easy and moderate circular routes is also a popular feature.
Are there many circular walks available?
Yes, the majority of popular routes around The Lee are circular. This makes planning very convenient, as you can easily return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For example, the House Under the Big Sky loop from Cholesbury-cum-St Leonards is a lovely circular option that explores the area's scenic mix of woodland and open country.
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