Chilterns National Landscape: England’s Quintessential Rolling Hills and Historic Countryside
Explore 324 square miles of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and historic villages in England’s tranquil Chilterns National Landscape.
The Chilterns National Landscape is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spanning 324 square miles of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages northwest of London. Renowned for its tranquil countryside, historic sites, and diverse outdoor activities, it offers visitors sweeping vistas, nature reserves, cultural heritage, and charming market towns. Easily accessible yet wonderfully peaceful, the Chilterns is a quintessential English escape for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring centuries-old history.
A brief summary to Chilterns National Landscape
- High Wycombe, HP13 6HW, GB
- +441844355500
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Coombe Hill for stunning panoramic views and enjoy the wildflower displays in summer.
- Explore the Hellfire Caves near West Wycombe to uncover intriguing 18th-century history.
- Take a walk along the Ridgeway, one of Britain’s oldest paths, for a mix of history and nature.
- Plan a family day out at Wendover Woods with treetop adventures and themed trails.
- Sample local food and drink from vineyards, breweries, and markets to taste the ‘larder of London.’
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train and Bus
Take a train from London Marylebone to High Wycombe, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From High Wycombe station, local buses connect to various Chilterns destinations. Train fares typically range from £10 to £20 return, depending on time and ticket type. Bus services may have limited frequency on weekends.
-
Car
Driving from central London to the Chilterns National Landscape takes around 1 to 1.5 hours via the M40 motorway. Parking is available at key visitor sites but can be limited during peak times. Some rural roads are narrow, so cautious driving is advised.
-
Cycling and Walking
For active travelers, cycling routes connect towns and villages within the Chilterns, with trails such as the Ridgeway offering scenic rides. Walking paths are extensive, with routes ranging from short strolls to multi-hour hikes. Terrain varies from gentle slopes to more challenging hills.
Chilterns National Landscape location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Chilterns National Landscape
A Storied Landscape of Natural Beauty
The Chilterns National Landscape stretches across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Oxfordshire, covering 324 square miles of quintessential English countryside. Characterized by rolling chalk hills, flower-filled woodlands, and peaceful valleys, this area has been shaped by nature and human habitation over millennia. The landscape features iconic chalk grasslands, ancient beech woods, and chalk streams, creating a mosaic of habitats that support diverse wildlife. The highest point, Coombe Hill, offers panoramic views across the Aylesbury Vale and beyond, rewarding visitors with breathtaking scenery.Historic Villages and Cultural Heritage
The Chilterns is rich in history, with medieval villages like West Wycombe perched above chalk caves known as the Hellfire Caves, once the haunt of the notorious 18th-century Hellfire Club. Historic manor houses such as Chenies Manor, visited by Tudor monarchs, and the Iron Age roundhouses at the Chiltern Open Air Museum reveal layers of human story. The Ridgeway, one of Britain’s oldest roads, crosses the Chilterns, connecting visitors to ancient pathways used for over 5,000 years. Quaint market towns and villages dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into traditional rural life alongside modern amenities.Outdoor Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
The Chilterns is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with extensive walking and cycling trails, including the Thames Path and the Ridgeway National Trail. Nature reserves managed by organizations like the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, insect spotting, and enjoying chalk grassland flora. Wendover Woods offers family-friendly activities such as treetop adventures and Gruffalo-themed trails, while Whipsnade Zoo, located on the Chiltern slopes, is the UK’s largest zoo, home to over 2,500 animals.Accessible Exploration and Local Flavours
Conveniently located just northwest of London, the Chilterns is easily reached by train or car, making it ideal for short breaks. Visitors can explore the area on foot, bike, or boat, enjoying a variety of experiences from mindful nature walks to cultural festivals. The region is known as the ‘larder of London’ for its excellent local food and drink, including vineyards, breweries, and farmers’ markets. Historic pubs and restaurants offer a warm welcome after a day of exploring, providing a taste of authentic Chilterns hospitality.Preservation and Sustainable Enjoyment
As a nationally protected landscape, the Chilterns is managed with a focus on conservation and sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to follow the Countryside Code, respecting wildlife, habitats, and local communities. Efforts to protect chalk streams, rare species, and historic sites ensure that the Chilterns remains a treasured natural and cultural resource for future generations. The area balances being a living, working landscape with providing tranquil escapes for visitors.A Year-Round Destination with Varied Experiences
The Chilterns offers something for every season, from vibrant bluebell displays in spring to colorful autumnal woodlands. Family-friendly attractions, historic museums, and outdoor activities make it a versatile destination. Whether seeking peaceful mindfulness spots, adventurous hikes, cultural heritage, or scenic photography opportunities, the Chilterns National Landscape delivers a rich and rewarding experience close to the bustle of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Virgin Experience Days
13.2 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
18.2 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Holy Well of St Anne
22.3 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Edward VII Statue
23.4 km
A distinguished Edwardian bronze statue near Reading station, embodying regal history and artistic heritage from the early 20th century.
Herschel Park
24.6 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Herschel Park, a serene oasis in Slough, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
24.6 km
Explore the Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology in Reading, showcasing ancient Greek artifacts and rich historical narratives for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Burning Bush
24.7 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Eton College
24.7 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Eton College, a legendary educational institution in Windsor, England.
The Brocas
24.8 km
Explore The Brocas, a serene riverside park in Eton, perfect for picnics, walks, and breathtaking views of Windsor Castle.
Sydney Camm Memorial
24.9 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Cole Museum of Zoology
24.9 km
Discover the fascinating world of animals at the Cole Museum of Zoology, a must-visit attraction in Reading for nature lovers and curious minds.
The White House
25.0 km
An 18th-century white mansion anchoring a historic estate near Windsor Castle.
River Thames Windsor
25.0 km
Discover the beauty and history of the River Thames in Windsor, a picturesque destination perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
Eton
25.2 km
Eton College: A centuries-old bastion of elite British education nestled beside historic Windsor Castle.
Windsor Wheel
25.3 km
Experience breathtaking views of Windsor and its iconic landmarks from the heights of the Royal Windsor Wheel, a must-visit tourist attraction in Alexandra Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Boot
2.4 km
A beloved gastropub in Bledlow Ridge offering hearty British classics, a welcoming atmosphere, and family-friendly outdoor spaces.
Dashwood Mausoleum
3.4 km
Historic 18th-century mausoleum with panoramic Chiltern Hills views, linked to Sir Francis Dashwood and the legendary Hellfire Club.
The Hellfire Caves
3.6 km
Explore the eerie 18th-century underground tunnels of The Hellfire Caves, steeped in mystery, history, and legendary secret societies.
National Trust - West Wycombe Park
3.7 km
Explore West Wycombe Park’s grand Palladian mansion, enchanting rococo gardens, and historic village nestled in the scenic Chiltern Hills.
Lacey Green Windmill
5.6 km
Explore England’s oldest smock windmill nestled on the scenic Chiltern Hills, a living monument to rural heritage and volunteer passion.
CHILTERNS NATURE - CHINNOR CHALK PITS
5.6 km
Explore the serene and fossil-rich Chinnor Chalk Pits, a geological gem nestled in the heart of the Chiltern Hills.
National Trust - Hughenden
6.6 km
Explore the Victorian grandeur and secret wartime legacy of Benjamin Disraeli’s cherished Chilterns estate.
Eden, High Wycombe
7.3 km
A spacious, vibrant shopping and leisure hub in High Wycombe with over 100 stores, dining, cinema, and community events for all ages.
Chilterns Shopping Centre
7.4 km
A bustling retail hub in High Wycombe blending historic charm with diverse shops and lively community spirit.
Church Square
7.5 km
Historic heart of High Wycombe where timeless architecture meets vibrant community life and cultural events.
Stonor Park
8.8 km
Explore Stonor Park, an 850-year-old family home with medieval roots, ancient stone circle, and tranquil Chiltern Hills gardens.
Warburg Nature Reserve Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust
10.9 km
Explore the tranquil Chilterns sanctuary of Warburg Nature Reserve, a vibrant refuge for rare orchids, fungi, and wildlife amid ancient woodlands and chalk grasslands.
Marlow Museum
11.0 km
Discover Marlow’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and passionate volunteer storytelling in a charming riverside setting.
Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex
11.1 km
A historic riverside park in Marlow blending natural beauty, leisure facilities, and family-friendly activities along the iconic Thames Path.
Higginson Park
11.1 km
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Essential places to dine
Vanilla Pod
10.7 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
The Ivy Marlow Garden
10.8 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
The Cross Keys
11.3 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Great Missenden offering seasonal British cuisine, traditional ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Restaurant at Danesfield House
11.6 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.
Lucca Restaurant & Bar
14.1 km
Modern Italian dining with fresh flavors and a lively bar in the heart of Wendover’s charming High Street.
The Woolpack
15.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional British charm with modern dining in the heart of Stoke Mandeville.
Seven Stars
15.3 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
The Cliveden Dining Room
15.6 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Chequers Inn
16.1 km
A refined fine dining pub in Weston Turville, where locally sourced ingredients meet culinary artistry in a warm, elegant setting.
Bespoke Restaurants
16.1 km
Elegant dining in Beaconsfield’s historic Old Rectory, where bespoke cuisine meets timeless charm.
The Five Bells
16.3 km
A welcoming British gastropub in Weston Turville offering hearty classics, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
The Artichoke
16.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a historic 16th-century setting, blending seasonal local produce with creative flair and impeccable service.
La table d'Alix at The Plough
16.6 km
Authentic French cuisine in a charming Oxfordshire village pub, blending rustic elegance with warm hospitality for memorable dining experiences.
The Angel Restaurant
16.8 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
17.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lewis & Partners
6.8 km
A trusted British department store blending quality, style, and service in the heart of High Wycombe’s Cressex Centre.
Ruby Moon
7.8 km
Explore the mystical world of crystals and unique gifts at Ruby Moon, High Wycombe’s beloved metaphysical emporium since 1998.
Little Wren Collections
11.4 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery, unique gifts, and art treasures at Little Wren Collections in Great Missenden’s charming High Street.
Number 1
14.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in the heart of Wendover’s charming High Street at Number 1 gift shop.
Crystal Willow
14.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Crystal Willow in Stoke Mandeville, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs.
Trunk Lifestyle Boutique
17.2 km
Discover unique fashion, gifts, and local artisan creations in a warm, creative boutique nestled in the heart of Amersham.
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
17.3 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Shop of magical requirements
18.0 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
18.0 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
House of Fraser
18.0 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
The Vintage Shop
18.0 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
The Works
18.2 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
One Beyond Aylesbury
18.2 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
18.2 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
Aylesbury Eco Store
18.2 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Chilterns Fox
4.7 km
A cozy country pub and hotel in the Chiltern Hills offering hearty food, friendly service, and a peaceful rural retreat near High Wycombe.
The Snug Bar High Wycombe
7.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in High Wycombe offering over 100 fresh cocktails, lively atmosphere, and great happy hour deals in a spacious, stylish setting.
Dukes Wine Bar
7.9 km
Cozy wine bar in Princes Risborough offering a curated wine list, creative menu, and charming courtyard for relaxed socializing.
The Oarsman, Marlow
10.5 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
The Botanist Marlow
10.6 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
The Old Brewery
10.9 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Swan
10.9 km
A charming traditional pub and inn in Little Kimble offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside.
The Hit or Miss
12.8 km
A cozy country pub in Amersham offering hearty British fare and friendly service in a charming village setting.
The Royal Standard of England
13.3 km
Step into England’s oldest freehouse, where 900 years of royal history, ghostly legends, and timeless ale await in a charming rural setting.
The Treehouse
15.9 km
A vibrant bar in Beaconsfield known for quality cocktails, friendly service, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Bugle Horn
16.2 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
17.2 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Off The Tap
17.2 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
17.5 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Old Millwrights Arms
17.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
