For wanderlust souls seeking quintessential country charm, Buckinghamshire is an endlessly romantic destination. Only a short distance from London, this ceremonial county is perfectly placed for luxury staycations and boasts some of the most divine scenery in the country, idyllic for serene strolls and day-long adventures. To the north, find the rolling plains of Aylesbury and the waterways of the River Great Ouse. To the south, uncover how the verdant slopes of the Chilterns National Landscape and flow of the River Thames shape the landscapes and beckon for heavenly moments in nature.
Ready to immerse in spellbinding scenery? Uncover our curated guide to the best walks in Buckinghamshire.
West Wycombe Trail
For a short and sweet walk, the 1-mile West Wycombe trail introduces one of the most darling villages in Buckinghamshire. Wending through characterful streets and past wildflower meadows, this National Trust-recommended walk promises a fascinating insight into West Wycombe’s past and present. Along the way, look out for West Wycombe House, a regal manor used as the filming location of Downton Abbey, Victoria and Abdul, Crooked House, and Belle. You can also take a detour to explore the Hellfire Caves in West Wycombe. Man-made chalk and flint tunnels travelling hundreds of feet underground, these caves were a notorious magnet for 18th-century English aristocrats, and were even believed to have been visited by the Founding Father of the United States, Benjamin Franklin.
Wendover Woods
The adumbral paradise of Wendover Woods extends for around 800 acres across coniferous and broadleaf woodland, greenery-swathed hills, and the remains of Iron Age dwellings. One of the best places in the county for wandering through arboreal realms, it beckons with an array of trails to choose from. Depending on your preferred routes, you can admire the views from the 0.5-mile Hilltop Trail, test your energy levels along the 2-mile Forest Fitness Trail, journey back in time along the 2-mile Hill Fort Trail, or relax into a leisurely pace on the 3-mile Firecrest Trail. The latter is particularly enchanting and follows both surfaced and unsurfaced pathways through sun-dappled woodland. For a delicious cup of something soothing, pop into Wendover Woods Café before or after your walk.
Brush Hill Walk
Proposing a magical passage through a designated Nature Reserve, the 3-mile Brush Hill walk leads amblers from the little hamlet of Whiteleaf and around the surrounding reserve. Lacing through habitats composed of chalk grassland, scrub, woodland, and patchwork fields, this soul-stirring walk also traces the wildlife-rich Brush Hill. Make this walk all the more entrancing by keeping an eye out for some of the animals and birds who reside within its sanctuary, from enigmatic roe deer to stunning nuthatches and goldcrests. You can also see delicate chalkhill blue butterflies and orchids. Pack a bag with water, a map, binoculars, and lots of trail deliciousness and savour the rejuvenating atmosphere of this wilderness reserve.
Tring Reservoirs and the Grand Union Canal
Home to a 250-year-old network of canals, rivers, and waterways, Tring Reservoirs SSSI and the Grand Union Canal are a dream for waterside exploration. A haven for lovers of nature, this area also supports invaluable habitats for a range of flora and fauna and is especially renowned for its birdlife. For one of the most idyllic ways to explore the area, an unforgettable route encompasses each of the four reservoirs - Startops End, Marsworth, Tringford and Wilstone Reservoir - and runs for just over 5 miles. Begin this circular walk in the village of Marsworth and uncover the Tring Reservoirs along a series of defined footpaths, before concluding with a stroll along the canal. Afterwards, seek refreshments in one of the charming collection of village pubs and cafés nearby, such as the family-run and dog-friendly Waters Edge in Marsworth.
Marlow Circular
The beautiful riverside town of Marlow is situated on the picturesque banks of the River Thames. Beloved for its heavenly aesthetics with Georgian buildings, tranquil towpaths, and striking suspension bridge, it’s a captivating setting in all seasons and encourages plenty of time spent alfresco. For one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Marlow’s beauty, take up the 6.5-mile Marlow circular. To commence your walk, follow the footpath through Higginson Park to reach the banks of the Thames and trace the river, before eventually veering away through the countryside and estate. Curating awe-inspiring backdrops to this loop are highlights such as Marlow’s 19th-century suspension bridge (designed by William Tierney Clark), the Grade I listed Bisham Abbey, Temple Locks, and Rassler Wood.
Coombe Hill
One of the prettiest places to visit in Buckinghamshire, Coombe Hill tempts for walks throughout the year. The highest point in the Chilterns, it rises to 852 feet above sea level and rewards hikers with stunning panoramas across the Vale of Aylesbury. At the start and end of each day, spectacular sunrises and sunsets can often be enjoyed from the top, while during the day, clear conditions reveal views as far as the Cotswolds. Make the most of the different trails that weave up the hill or, to extend your adventuring, complete the 7-mile Coombe Hill and Chequers trail for one of the best walks in Buckinghamshire and the chance to explore a rich variety of local woodland and hummocky hills.
Great Missenden and Hampden Valley Circular
The Great Missenden and Hampden Valley circular calls to wanderlust souls. Running for around 7.5 miles, it embraces a range of terrains and gradients that offer dynamic walking opportunities. Start in the village of Great Missenden and follow the course towards Hampdenleaf Woods. Meander through Little Hampden before venturing towards Pepperboxes Wood, enveloped in swathes of mature beech trees alongside young oak, birch, rowan, hazel and sweet chestnut. Continue the route through quaint countryside and peaceful woodlands before arriving back at Great Missenden. A particularly special time to complete this walk is in springtime, when the colourful blooms of daffodils and bluebells decorate verges and woodland floors.
Chiltern Hills Three-in-One
Buckinghamshire is renowned for its stunning landscapes and there’s no finer way to absorb the mesmerising vistas than with a hilltop hike. The jewel in the crown, the Chiltern Hills Three-in-One walk is one of the most sublime walks in the county, comprising the beautiful villages of West Wycombe and Bradenham and the estate of Hughenden Manor. Starting in the National Trust car park near St Lawrence’s Church in West Wycombe, it unravels across postcard-perfect villages, a number of undulating hills, and through manicured parkland once revered by Victorian Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli. Create halcyon detours along the way to uncover the secrets of the surrounds over a full day, or plot your course to complete this unforgettable foray in a few hours. Either way, be sure to adorn good footwear and the cosiest apparel for a rural reverie to remember.
Ivinghoe Beacon Ridgeway Loop
For those seeking a challenging hike past bewitching backdrops, the Ivinghoe Beacon Ridgeway circular will pique your interest. A 10-mile circuit, it intertwines a range of Buckinghamshire beauty spots and historic sites, such as Aldbury Nowers Nature Reserve, Pitstone Hill, the National Trust’s Ashridge Estate, and part of The Chiltern Way, as well as Ivinghoe Beacon itself. One of its main treasures, this lovely loop also incorporates part of The Ridgeway, a 5,000-year-old trail that’s believed to be the oldest road in Britain. Retrace the footsteps of prehistoric travellers, wayfarers, and soldiers along this ancient trail and bask in the glorious scenery. At 10 miles long, ensure you allow plenty of time to complete this walk and pack a bag with water, supplies, and a generous supply of delectable treats.
Feeling inspired for heavenly adventures? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Buckinghamshire.
