Finemere Wood: Ancient Woodland and Wildlife Haven in Buckinghamshire
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Finemere Wood is a 45.7-hectare ancient woodland and nature reserve near Quainton, Buckinghamshire, managed by BBOWT. It features diverse habitats including meadows and pastures, supporting over 200 species of flowers, abundant butterflies, birds, and bats. Once part of the Royal Bernwood Forest, it offers rich history and a tranquil escape with circular wildlife walks and seasonal guided tours.
A brief summary to Finemere Wood
- Lee Rd, Aylesbury, Quainton, HP18 0QN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be narrow, uneven, and muddy, especially after rain.
- Visit in spring or summer to experience vibrant wildflowers and the best butterfly sightings.
- Follow the 1.5-mile circular Wildlife Walk marked by badger waymarkers for a rewarding exploration.
- Check for any access updates due to HS2-related roadworks and be prepared for a manned barrier at the entrance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Aylesbury, the journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes via local roads. Parking is available at the end of the open section of the access track off Lee Road near Quainton. Note that access involves passing through a manned barrier due to nearby HS2 roadworks. Parking is free but limited.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Quainton to Aylesbury and surrounding towns with a travel time of 30-45 minutes. From Quainton, a 3-kilometer walk on rural roads and footpaths leads to Finemere Wood. Bus service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For walkers staying in Quainton or nearby villages, the reserve is accessible via country lanes and footpaths. Expect a 30-45 minute walk over uneven terrain, suitable for experienced walkers. Paths can be muddy and narrow in places.
Finemere Wood location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Finemere Wood
A Living Legacy of Ancient Woodland
Finemere Wood spans approximately 45.7 hectares (113 acres) of ancient woodland near Quainton, Buckinghamshire. This protected biological Site of Special Scientific Interest is part of the historic Royal Bernwood Forest, once a royal hunting ground where kings and queens pursued wild boar and deer. The woodland's deep-rooted history is palpable, with medieval drovers’ tracks and centuries-old trees shaping its landscape. Managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT), the reserve is a living mosaic of habitats that reflect both natural heritage and ongoing conservation efforts.Flora and Fauna: A Biodiverse Sanctuary
Finemere Wood is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 200 recorded species of wildflowers. Springtime transforms the woodland floor with carpets of bluebells, primroses, wood anemones, and early-purple orchids. Coppiced clearings brighten with lesser celandine and dog's mercury, while summer brings hairy St. John's-wort and willowherb. The adjoining historic meadow, maintained through traditional grazing, bursts with ragged-robin, cuckooflower, saw-wort, betony, and devil's-bit scabious, supporting a thriving community of bees and butterflies. Notably, the reserve is one of the best places in the region to spot the majestic purple emperor butterfly alongside white admirals and silver-washed fritillaries.Conservation and Volunteer Stewardship
BBOWT actively manages Finemere Wood through habitat restoration and monitoring. Volunteers play a vital role, engaging in tasks such as scrub clearance, tree felling, hedge laying, and maintaining open rides that encourage sunlight penetration for ground flora and invertebrates. Seasonal wildlife surveys track populations of birds, bats, butterflies, and the impact of deer. The British Trust for Ornithology contributes by ringing birds to study survival and movement patterns. These combined efforts sustain the ecological richness and resilience of the woodland amid modern challenges like nearby infrastructure development.Visitor Experience and Trails
Visitors can explore Finemere Wood year-round via a 1.5-mile circular Wildlife Walk marked by badger waymarkers, offering a peaceful immersion in nature. The terrain varies from narrow, root-strewn paths to wider grassy rides, with some areas prone to muddiness, making sturdy footwear advisable. The wood’s atmosphere is especially enchanting in spring and summer when wildflowers and butterflies abound. Seasonal guided walks provide deeper insights into the reserve’s natural and historical significance. While the reserve is rustic and more suited to walkers than families with young children, it offers rewarding encounters with wildlife including birdsong, butterflies, and occasional sightings of hares.Challenges and Future Outlook
Finemere Wood faces pressures from nearby developments such as the HS2 high-speed rail and East West Rail projects, which run close to the reserve’s western boundary. These pose challenges for wildlife connectivity and habitat integrity. Despite this, BBOWT’s ongoing conservation projects and volunteer dedication aim to safeguard the reserve’s ecological and historical value. Visitors are encouraged to respect the delicate environment and enjoy this tranquil woodland sanctuary responsibly.Access and Amenities
The reserve is accessible via Lee Road near Quainton, with parking available at the end of the open section of the access track. Visitors should note that access may involve passing through a manned barrier due to nearby road realignment works linked to HS2. Facilities are minimal, emphasizing a natural, undisturbed experience. There are no entrance fees, and the reserve is open at all times, inviting visitors to connect with one of Buckinghamshire’s most treasured natural landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
24.8 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Magdalen Bridge
25.2 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
25.2 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
Oxford Botanic Garden
25.3 km
Explore the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK, where diverse plant species and serene landscapes await your discovery.
City Sightseeing Oxford
25.3 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
25.3 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
The Queen's College
25.4 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
New College Ln
25.4 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
25.4 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
25.5 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Weston Library
25.5 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Bodleian Library
25.5 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
Bodleian Old Library
25.5 km
Discover the Bodleian Old Library, a historic treasure in Oxford, steeped in knowledge and architectural beauty, inviting all to explore its literary wonders.
The Sheldonian Theatre
25.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of The Sheldonian Theatre, a historic performing arts gem in the heart of Oxford.
Radcliffe Camera
25.5 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quainton Windmill
2.9 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
3.2 km
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
National Trust - Claydon
3.7 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
3.7 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Waddesdon Manor
5.3 km
Explore the grandeur of Waddesdon Manor, a French Renaissance château with stunning gardens, rich art collections, and vibrant cultural events in Buckinghamshire.
Flint House, Buckinghamshire
6.6 km
Discover Waddesdon Manor’s grand French Renaissance architecture, exquisite art collections, and enchanting Victorian gardens in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
Brill Windmill
10.1 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
National Trust - Boarstall Tower
12.1 km
Explore Boarstall Tower, a stunning 14th-century moated gatehouse steeped in medieval legend and civil war history, set in serene Buckinghamshire gardens.
St Rumbold's Well
12.3 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
Discover Bucks Museum
12.4 km
Explore Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage and family-friendly interactive exhibits at Discover Bucks Museum in historic Aylesbury.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
12.6 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
12.7 km
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
Buckingham Old Gaol
12.7 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
Bicester Heritage
13.2 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Bicester Village
13.9 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
Essential places to dine
CANALETTO
4.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Five Arrows
5.2 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
The Pilgrim Pub
5.5 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
The Old Thatched Inn
8.7 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
8.8 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
9.0 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
Beefeater Buckingham
11.2 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Seven Stars
11.7 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
Allium Dining
11.9 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
Glaze Steakhouse
12.7 km
Aylesbury’s upscale steakhouse delivering expertly cooked prime cuts in a stylish bar and grill setting with personalized service.
Rococo Lounge
12.7 km
Aylesbury’s eclectic lounge blending British classics with vegan and gluten-free delights in a funky, family-friendly setting.
The Angel Restaurant
13.0 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
13.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
Cecconi's Bicester
13.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
Nut Tree Inn
14.7 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beautifully Different Winslow
7.7 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Rabbit Retail
11.1 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
The Vintage Shop
12.4 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
Shop of magical requirements
12.4 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
B&M Home Store
12.5 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
12.5 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
The Works
12.6 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
12.6 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
House of Fraser
12.6 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
One Beyond Aylesbury
12.6 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vast range of essentials at One Beyond Aylesbury, your go-to discount store in the heart of Hale Leys.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
12.6 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
12.7 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Aylesbury Eco Store
12.8 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
QD Aylesbury
12.8 km
Affordable home, garden, and lifestyle essentials with unique finds and community spirit in the heart of Aylesbury.
Crystal Willow
16.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Crystal Willow in Stoke Mandeville, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cotton Wheel
10.2 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watermead Inn
11.9 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
The Bugle Horn
12.1 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Emperors Lounge
12.4 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
The Rockwood
12.4 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
The Feathers Aylesbury
12.5 km
A lively Aylesbury pub blending traditional charm, modern sports viewing, and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Kingsbury Square.
The King's Head, Aylesbury
12.6 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
12.7 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
12.7 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
Craftyard Aylesbury
12.8 km
A stylish, family-run craft beer and gin bar in Aylesbury with an industrial-chic vibe inspired by London’s vibrant streets.
Old Millwrights Arms
13.3 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
14.9 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Swan
18.1 km
A charming traditional pub and inn in Little Kimble offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside.
The Oak, Aston Clinton
18.2 km
A historic 500-year-old thatched village pub offering rustic home-cooked meals, local ales, and warm family hospitality in scenic Aston Clinton.
Jolly Hucksters Ltd- Mobile Bar Company
18.7 km
Milton Keynes’ trusted family-run mobile bar, delivering bespoke drink experiences and exceptional service to weddings and events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mirage Aylesbury
12.4 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
18.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Pink Punters
20.5 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Garudaa
21.4 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Fever Oxford
25.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
25.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
26.2 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
26.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
26.2 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
26.2 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Penthouse Playrooms
29.2 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
The Venue, Bucks
32.1 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
32.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Diligence
34.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
36.3 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly