Posts tagged England
Completing all Cambridgeshire parkruns

There are currently 16 parkrun events in the present-day county of Cambridgeshire. The first was Milton Country parkrun which started on 30th January 2010 and the newest is Frank’s Farm parkrun which started on 15th November 2025. The name for having completed all parkrun events in the county is Camb-which.

Three events were in the Historic County of Huntingdonshire: Ferry Meadows, Huntingdon and Pocket.

There is one permanently cancelled event, Storeys Field which was replaced by Brook Leys.

Numbers exclude any events that are not open to the general public such as prisons or armed forces facilities.

A map of all parkrun events on the county of Cambridgeshire

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Ben’s Yard, Ely

 

Brook Leys

 

Bug Hunter Waters

 

Coldham’s Common

 

Ferry Meadows

 

Frank’s Farm

 

Fulbourn Hospital

 

Huntingdon

 

Littleport

 

Manor Field, Whittlesey

 

March

 

Milton Country

 

Pocket

 

Soham Village College

 

Storeys Field

  • This parkrun event has been permanently cancelled.

  • I completed this event on: July 15th 2023 with a finish time of: 27:07

  • Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.

  • Inaugural: July 31st 2021. Final event: #206 on August 30th 2025

  • Reason for cancellation: A new road was built directly through its course in the Eddington development, making the route unsafe and unviable.

  • Replaced by: Brook Leys

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course page

 

Wimpole Estate

 

Wisbech

 

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

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Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Cambridgeshire, EnglandComment
The Pilgrim Challenge 110k Ultra Marathon
Descent of Box Hill

Descent of Box Hill

When: February 7th and 8th 2026
Start and Finish: Sandy Farm Business Park, Sands Road, The Sands, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 1PX
Organiser: XNRG
Distance: 55km (34 miles) x 2 days = 110km (68 miles), including the diversion.
Elevation change: +/- 1,155m per day = +/- 2310m for the 2 day event
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): North Downs Way, The Fox Way, Wey South Path, Scholar’s Trail, Downs Link, Prospects of Polesden, Ranmore Circular, Mole Gap Trail, Box Hill Hike, Stepping Stones Path, Leith Hill Greenway, Reigate Hill Walk Harewoods, Greensand Way
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 22, Surrey Cycleway
Other routes touched (run): Downs Link Ultra, Hardest of Snails 10k
Summits: St. Martha's Hill (175m), Reigate Hill (235m)
OS Trig Pillars: TP1553 - Box Hill
Maps:
- Guildford & Farnham Map | Godalming & Farnborough | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 145
- Dorking, Box Hill & Reigate Map | Leatherhead & Caterham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 146
Finish time Day 1: 9 hours, 41 minutes, 53 seconds
Finish time Day 2: 11 hours, 33 minutes, 27 seconds
Links: North Downs Way, Puttenham, Guildford, St. Martha’s Hill, Newlands Corner, Shere, Denbies, Box Hill, Betchworth, Redhill

After loving The Lap Ultra around Lake Windermere the previous year, I was looking for inspiration for a new event. My social media feeds had no shortage of ads for big races, but they were either ones I had done before, too long, too far away, or simply didn't inspire me enough.

It was at a pre-Christmas family lunch when my sister, Lisa, gave me that inspiration: she had recently completed the Druid's Challenge on the Ridgeway. That was a 3-day event with overnight stays along the way. I had only done single-day Ultras before, so the novelty of doing a multi-day event with Lisa gave me the "Hell Yes" decision I was looking for.

I tried in vain to recruit my friend Mark to sign up too: he is normally up for Ultras but didn't seem too keen on a winter one or the prospect of sleeping in a school. Timea also had no interest in being my support crew in the bleak midwinter (which was fair enough). Then, shortly after New Year, Lisa decided that the race wasn't right for her this year. I briefly considered deferring my place but decided to go ahead anyway when I remembered how much I enjoyed The Hurtwood, an Ultra I did a few years back which was also in the winter.

My January was both dry and wet. I had pressed pause on alcohol before New Year, except for some pre-Christmas drinks with a friend that we postponed until Jan 14th. The wet part came from nearly constant rain for the 3 weeks leading up to the event. The North Downs Way is known for its mud, and I could feel that this was going to be tough.

On the night before the race, we received an email from XNRG, the organisers, stating that a diversion would add a mile to each day. At that point, my attitude was "bring it on". If it was going to be tough, then why not an extra hilly 2 miles? That was the same attitude that meant I wasn't bothered that it was pissing it down with rain through the hour's drive to the start.

I was in the 08:00 walkers start based on the predicted finish time I gave when I signed up. The runners would start an hour later. After a short briefing, we were off. I usually run the first half of an Ultra but decided to take this one easier. I also didn’t want to be at the front of the pack and risk getting everyone lost.

As it happened, the group I was following took a wrong turn after the first 5 minutes, following the edge of the starting field rather than exiting via the corner. Luckily, other participants noticed and called us back, only adding about 100m to our route.

Having previously walked the whole of the North Downs Way, the route was very familiar and felt like an old friend. The first 16 km took us through the villages of Seale and Puttenham, across the River Wey at Guildford and over to Chantry Wood.

This was also the section with the diversion to avoid repairs on the trail. Not only was it an extra mile, but it was all hill: the route climbed a steep hill to the A31 then descended steeply again shortly after.

After the first checkpoint, we climbed up to St Martha’s Hill. This would have been the first great view, but the mist and rain didn’t show off the Downs at their best. Newlands Corner came next, which felt like a big milestone in the race. I half-considered stopping in the cafe for a coffee and cake, but I was making good time and didn’t need the food, so I pressed on.

The 12 km after Newlands Corner through Shere Woodlands is beautiful, but it involves a lot of the same view, so I found it one of the less interesting parts of the route. This was also where I was overtaken by the faster runners who had started an hour behind me.

After the Ranmore Common checkpoint, the trail became much more interesting again. The descending curve around Denbies gave us great views across the vineyard over to Dorking and Box Hill.

After crossing under the A24 near Dorking, we came to the River Mole crossing. We were told in the briefing that the Mole had burst its banks and it would be a wet one: we would have a choice of crossing over the Stepping Stones or using the dry route over the footbridge.

It was only because I had been to the crossing before that I knew where the stepping stones would be. That day they were submerged under fast-flowing water and couldn’t be seen at all. Even the bridge option wasn’t completely dry as there was a large, deep puddle on the other side that required wading.

Next up was the steep climb up the steps to the Box Hill viewpoint, followed by an equally steep descent through a narrow wooded path.

After Checkpoint 3 at Betchworth, I joined a fellow participant named Lee for the final couple of hours. Like several others on the route, Lee was using the event as training for the Marathon des Sables. He was suffering, having fallen earlier in the day, and was going slower than planned. Lee’s slow pace was my normal pace, and it gave us the opportunity to chat for a couple of hours.

I’ve learned that there are two types of Ultra conversation. The usual one is the 2-minute chat as you briefly pass someone at a similar speed before one of you pulls ahead. That chat is a mixture of "tough isn’t it?", "how are you feeling?" and "is this your first Ultra?"

The other type of chat only happens when your pace exactly matches another runner for a long period and you can have a much deeper conversation. Ultra runners tend to have very interesting backstories, and Lee was no exception. I think the chat helped both of us, and it certainly helped me through the last 15 km, which always feel longer.

We arrived at the school in Redhill just after it got dark. I was mostly interested in going straight to bed and waking up in the morning, but I managed to summon the energy to get showered, changed, sort my kit and have dinner. Lisa had given good reviews about the evenings based on her Druid's Challenge experience. The food was great, and it was nice to hear the Ultra-related speeches after dinner.

I slept better than expected, although my Garmin wasn't happy with me in the morning. The focused rest I had before the weekend had given me good Body Battery, Sleep and HRV scores. At the start of Day 2, however, I was down to 33% Body Battery, a 43% Sleep Score and an HRV of 54 (down from 91 the previous night). Not the best numbers to have in the tank ahead of the second Ultra distance of the weekend.

Based on my Saturday finish time, I was placed in the earliest starting wave at 07:00. I was happy with this as I had decided I would walk the day and needed all the daylight I could get. Even being in the walker's group, I was still near the back. I wasn't worried, though, as I decided that I would just enjoy another day on the trail.

Day 2 was dry with no rain for much of the route. The mud was still there and the first couple of hours of steep, narrow and mud-filled paths were slow going. I was only 100 minutes in before the fastest of the second wave overtaken me. They may have been half my age and likely to have done significantly more Ultras and training than I had, but the speed they went through on the second day was incredibly impressive.

With my decision to just walk and enjoy the day, I settled into getting through my backlog of podcast episodes and finished an audiobook. On the quieter times without headphones, I got into a "zone": a fairly Zen-like state where the miles slipped away slowly but peacefully towards the finish.

The final hour was a bit tougher as it was all in the dark and with mostly no one else around. With the finish line in sight and the sounds of the event crew audible, I decided to do my only running of the day: the 100 metres to the finish. A bit of drizzle turned into heavy rain within minutes of crossing the finish, so I didn't hang around too long. I was so tired and cold at the end that I couldn't get changed fully, so I drove home still kitted up.

After 14 Ultras, it was good to do one that was a real challenge again. At 110 km, it was the longest distance I've done in a single event. I also found out what it's like to do a 2-dayer with a sleep in between. I think I've scratched that itch for now and will probably stick to single-day 50ks for a while.

A huge thanks goes to the crew at XNRG for putting on a very well-managed, safe and friendly event. When the skin grows back and I've had a few weeks of rest, I'm sure I will be coming back for more.

Day 2: Redhill to Sandy Farm

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Richard gowerRun, Ultramarathon, National Trust, National Trails, Trig Pillar, Surrey, Surrey Hills, EnglandComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 6: Waddesdon and Eythrope
View to the River Thame and the Chilterns from Upper Winchendon

View to the River Thame and the Chilterns from Upper Winchendon

Start & Finish: Waddesdon Manor Car Park, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JE
Distance: 11.1 km (6.9 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 160 m
Terrain: A mixture of paved estate roads, grassy footpaths, and woodland tracks across undulating farmland.
Midshires Way section covered: River Thame to Waddeston: 3.7 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, Thame Valley Walk, North Bucks Way, Aylesbury Ring, Windmill Hill at Waddesdon, Bernwood Jubilee Way
Other routes touched (cycle): National Bridleway, Waddesdon Greenway
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Five Arrows, Waddesdon. Near the start and finish.
OS Trig Pillar: TP6692 - Waddesdon Hill
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: River Thame, Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon National Trust, Waddesdon, Eythrope

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

This section of the Midshires Way offers a stunning journey through the heart of the Rothschild family's historical estates in Buckinghamshire. Starting at the Waddesdon Manor car park, the route climbs gently to provide sweeping views of the Vale of Aylesbury before descending into the more intimate, tranquil landscape of the Eythrope estate. It is a walk defined by grand architectural statements, ancient trees, and the peaceful meanderings of the River Thame.

The trail transitions from the manicured elegance of Waddesdon to the secluded charm of Eythrope’s private gardens and wilderness areas. As you loop back towards the starting point, the route follows a ridge that showcases the impressive scale of the local landscape. Whether you are interested in Victorian horticultural history or simply a quiet stroll through some of the county’s finest parkland, this route delivers a perfect blend of both.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at the large, free Waddesdon Manor car park. Check closing times to make sure that you don’t get locked in.

  • Pass by the Visitors’ Centre, where there are toilets, and walk along the main path in a westerly direction towards the manor. If you are a National Trust member you may be asked to show your membership cards but if not tell the staff that you are having a walk on the public footpaths and not entering the estate grounds.

  • At 400m after the Visitors’ Centre take a road on the right to follow the Windmill at Waddesdon Walk in a southerly direction.

  • After 700m you’ll reach a boulevard of trees descending from the manor down the valley to the south-east. Take a left to follow the path between the trees. Near the end of the trees, after a gate, curve to the south to reach School Lane on the hamlet of Upper Winchendon.

  • Cross over Main Road to follow a driveway towards a house. Take the footpath to the left of the house, pausing at the gate to take in the views across the Thame Valley.

  • Descend down the valley to reach the Bernwood Jubillee Trail before the River Thame.

  • Take a left to follow the Bernwood Jubillee Trail running parallel to the River Thame on its northern bank to the gates of the Eythrope Estate. Here you’'ll take a left into the Estate but if you continue over the bridge for ~100m you’ll meet the point of the Midshires Way where you left it on Section 5. If you visit the bridge, retrace your steps back to the gates of the gates of the Eythrope Estate.

  • Follow the paths along the gates of the Eythrope Estate drive, following it to the right as it curves towards the main house.

  • Before the gates of the main house take a left to follow the Midshires Way in a north-westerly direction back towards Waddesdon.

  • If you’re a Trig Bagger you’ll find the Waddesdon Hill Trig Pillar on a side-path just to the right of the main path approximately 2km from the where you turned left at the Eythrope House.

  • Cross over Waddesdon Hill Road to take the path alongside Waddesdon Stud.

  • Continue until the meet the Waddesdon Greenway then take a left to return to the Waddesdon Manor Car Park.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Waddesdon Manor: A striking Neo‑Renaissance country house built for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the late 19th century, Waddesdon Manor rises from the landscape like a French château. Its formal gardens, sweeping terraces, and historic aviary showcase the wealth, ambition, and artistic sensibilities of the Rothschild family.

  • Eythrope Estate: A more secluded corner of the wider Waddesdon estate, Eythrope is renowned for its exceptional walled garden and for The Pavilion, the riverside house created by Alice de Rothschild. The estate has a distinctly intimate character, shaped by its focus on ornamental horticulture and its tranquil setting beside the River Thame.

  • River Thame: Flowing quietly through the southern stretch of the route, the River Thame supports a rich mosaic of wildlife. Its meadows form a gentle contrast to the higher ground of the estate, with pollarded willows, wetland habitats, and seasonal wildflowers adding texture and colour to the landscape.

Midshires Way previous section South: Hartwell and Stone
Midshires Way next section North: Waddesdon and Quainton Road (coming soon)

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Richard gowerTrek, Buckinghamshire, England, National Trust, Trig PillarComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 5: Hartwell and Stone
Flooded Banks of The River Thame on the Midshires Way

Flooded River Thame

Start & Finish: Stone Village Hall, 50 Oxford Road, Stone Aylesbury, HP17 8PB
Distance: 10.1 km (6.3 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 75 m
Terrain: A mixture of quiet village lanes and open field-edge bridleways.
Midshires Way section covered: Bishopstone Road to the River Thame: 3.5 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, Thame Valley Walk, North Bucks Way
Other routes touched (cycle): Aylesbury Pebble Way
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Bugle Horn at 6.3 km in.
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: Stone, Hartwell, River Thame

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

This walk explores a fascinating slice of Buckinghamshire history, linking the ancient village of Stone with the grand estate of Hartwell House. The route offers a pleasing contrast between the open, agricultural landscapes typical of the Aylesbury Vale and the manicured, historic parkland of Hartwell, where you can spot 18th-century follies and a decorative bridge.

The path is generally gentle and well-marked, following a section of the long-distance Midshires Way before looping back through the quiet fields south of the River Thame. It is a walk that combines architectural interest with rural tranquillity.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at the Village Hall in Stone, where there’s free on-street parking and head west along A418 Oxford Road.

  • Take a right onto Eythorpe Road and follow it in a north-westerly direction for 1.9 km until you cross over a tributary of the River Thame.

  • After the River Thame take the footpath on the right that follows a path between the River Thame to the left and the tributary to the right.

  • After ~1.5 km take a right to leave the Thame Valley Walk to stay on the North Bucks Way heading across fields in a south-easterly direction.

  • When you reach the farm buildings take a right to continue along the North Bucks Way in a southerly direction.

  • At Upper Hartwell Road take a left to continue along the North Bucks Way in an easterly direction to Lower Hartwell Road.

  • Take a right onto Lower Hartwell Road and follow it in a southerly direction to the junction with the A418 Oxford Road. Along this road you’ll pass the Egyptian Well, an old graveyard and the fossil-encrusted outer wall of Hartwell House.

  • Carefully cross over the Oxford Road and take a left to pass (or stop into) the Bugle Horn Pub.

  • Follow Sedrup Lane in a south-easterly direction to the outskirts of the small village of Sedrup.

  • Before the village take a right to leave the North Bucks Way and follow a path across fields that leads onto Bishopstone Road.

  • Take a right onto Bishopstone Road and walk along the grass verge in a north-westerly direction all the way back to the Oxford Road at Stone.

  • Take a right onto the Oxford Road to return back to the Village Hall.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Stone: This historic village sits on a ridge of limestone and sand, giving it its name. The parish church of St John the Baptist dates back to 1273 and features a remarkable Norman font with intricate carvings of humans and animals.

  • Hartwell House: A magnificent Grade I listed stately home that once served as the residence of the exiled King Louis XVIII of France. The parkland is dotted with 18th-century follies and monuments, many of which are visible from the public right of way. Look out for the estate walls; they are historically notable for being encrusted with fossils and rare stones.

  • The Egyptian Springs: A unique folly located near Hartwell House, commissioned by Dr John Lee in the 1850s. Designed by Joseph Bonomi the Younger, it features an Egyptian-style alcove and a Greek inscription which translates to "Water is Best"—a nod to Dr Lee's support for the temperance movement.

  • The Bugle Horn: Originally a farmhouse associated with the Hartwell estate, this building was converted into a pub in the 19th century. Its curved brick wall is a distinctive local landmark, said to have been built that way to prevent coaches from clipping the corner.

Midshires Way previous section South: Ford and Michael's Peace
Midshires Way next section North: Waddesdon and Eythrope

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Richard gowerTrek, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 4: Ford and Michael's Peace
A fenced footpath leading across a field with the Chiltern hills in the background and grey skies

Cloudy sky over the Chilterns. View from near Ford village

Start & Finish: The Dinton Hermit, Water Lane, Ford, Aylesbury, HP17 8XH
Distance: 8.3 km (5.2 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 41 m
Terrain: Mostly level field-edge paths, quiet country lanes, and a short optional section through community woodland.
Midshires Way section covered: Michael’s Peace to Bishopstone Road: 3.8 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, The Wychert Way, Aylesbury Ring, North Bucks Way
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Dinton Hermit at the start and end of the walk
OS Trig Pillar: TP4919 - Moreton Farm
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: Ford, Buckinghamshire, Midshires Way

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

This walk starts in the quiet hamlet of Ford, setting off into the heart of the Aylesbury Vale. The route primarily follows a scenic section of the Midshires Way, leading you through an undulating landscape of traditional English farmland. It is a fantastic choice for those looking for a peaceful journey that avoids the steeper climbs of the nearby Chiltern ridge while still offering great views of the hills in the distance.

If you are into bagging OS Trig Pillars, there’s an optional diversion into Michael’s Peace to the Moreton Farm Pillar.. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Starting at the Dinton Hermit pub in Ford, head south-east cross over Water Lane to follow the Aylesbury Ring in a south-easterly direction for 1.8 km.

  • When you reach the track that connects with the Midshires Way take a left for ~750m to take the first path on the left.

  • Continue along the path for ~750m to a path junction on the boundary of Michael’s Peace. If you want to visit the Moreton Farm Trig Pillar, there’s 2 entrances on the left of this section of path.

  • At the path junction take a right to continue following the Midshires Way across farmland to Bishopstone Road.

  • Take a left onto Bishopstone Road then take the first path on the left at #2 Bishopstone.

  • Follow this path in a south-westerly direction for 2.5 km back to Water Lane and the Dinton Hermit pub.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Ford: A picturesque hamlet whose name derives from the Anglo-Saxon for a stream crossing. It is home to several Grade II listed buildings and thatched cottages.

  • The Dinton Hermit: This historic 17th-century country inn in Ford is named after John Bigg, the "Dinton Hermit," who was reputedly the executioner of King Charles I and lived in a cave nearby.

  • Michael's Peace: A 90-acre woodland planted in the winter of 2001-2002 that features diverse tree species like oak, ash, and hazel. A central memorial stone dedicated to Michael Roads serves as the starting point for six radiating rides, providing panoramic views of six local churches and the Chilterns. Supported by the Forestry Commission, this high point has become a haven for wildlife, including skylarks, little owls, and butterflies, making it a popular destination for the local community.

  • Moreton Farm Trig Pillar (TP4919): This concrete pillar is part of the historic Ordnance Survey triangulation network. At an elevation of roughly 92m, it provides a quiet marker in the Aylesbury Vale landscape.

  • The Wychert Way: The route touches this unique local trail. "Wychert" is a traditional building material made of white decayed limestone and straw, unique to this small pocket of Buckinghamshire (the Haddenham/Dinton area).

  • View of Coombe Hill: On clear days, look south-east. The Boer War Monument on top of Coombe Hill is often visible as a tiny spike on the horizon of the Chilterns.

Midshires Way previous section South: Ford and Kemble Wick
Midshires Way next section North: Hartwell and Stone

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Richard gowerTrek, Buckinghamshire, England, Trig PillarComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 3: Ford and Kemble Wick
Open fields between Between Aston Sandford and Owlswick. Blue sky with clouds and winter-bare trees

Between Aston Sandford and Owlswick

Start & Finish: The Dinton Hermit, Water Lane, Ford, Aylesbury, HP17 8XH
Distance: 11.6 km (7.2 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 58m
Terrain: Predominantly level terrain consisting of field-edge footpaths, narrow country lanes, and farm tracks across the Aylesbury Vale.
Midshires Way section covered: Longwick to Michael’s Peace: 4.3 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, The Wychert Way, Aylesbury Ring, Outer Aylesbury Ring, North Bucks Way
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Dinton Hermit at the start and end of the walk
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: Ford, Buckinghamshire, Midshires Way, Kimble Wick, Kimblewick bit, Aylesbury Vale

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

This third instalment of our Midshires Way series takes us deeper into the tranquil landscape of the Aylesbury Vale. Starting in the small hamlet of Ford, this circular route offers a wonderfully flat and accessible journey through the agricultural heart of Buckinghamshire. The walk is defined by its big skies and expansive views of the distant Chiltern Hills, providing a real sense of openness as you navigate the patchwork of fields between Ford, Kemble Wick, and the fringes of Dinton.

What makes this particular section so engaging is the blend of rural solitude and hidden local history. From crossing tiny tributaries of the River Thame to passing through secluded farmsteads, the route feels like a step back in time. Whether you are following the waymarked Swan Way bridleways or the narrow tracks of the Midshires Way, the walking is easy and the atmosphere is one of complete countryside peace.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start in the hamlet of Ford, with parking available at The Dinton Hermit or along Chapel Road.

  • Head south-west out of the village along the Chapel Road, then take the footpath leading across the fields following The Wychert Way toward the south-west.

  • When you reach a path junction with the Outer Aylesbury Ring at Aston Sandford, take a left to follow the field edge in a south-easterly direction.

  • The route crosses a farm which was very muddy and in the process of construction. Be careful through this part.

  • When you reach a track that cuts diagonally across the Outer Aylesbury Ring you’ll now be back on the Midshires Way at the point where you left of in Part 2. Take a left onto the Midshires Way, leaving the Outer Aylesbury Ring.

  • Continue along the track to Stockwell Lane then take an right to follow Stockwell Lane. Take the next left onto Kimblewick Road.

  • When you reach Kimblewick Village, take a left to follow an unnamed no-through-road in a north-westerly direction.

  • The road will become a track and when it takes a sharp turn to the left, leave it to follow a footpath on the left through fields.

  • Continue along the path in a north-westerly direction until you return back to the Dinton Hermit pub on Water Lane.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Ford: A picturesque hamlet whose name derives from the Anglo-Saxon for a stream crossing. It is home to several Grade II listed buildings and thatched cottages.

  • The Dinton Hermit: This historic pub is named after John Bigg, a legendary local recluse who lived in a cave nearby. Bigg was a Parliamentarian sympathiser during the Civil War and was famously rumoured to have been one of the executioners of King Charles I.

  • Wellington Bomber Memorial: Near Ford, a poignant memorial plaque commemorates Sergeant Victor George Bailey (RAF) and Sergeant Louis Grover Martin (RCAF). Both men died when their Wellington Bomber crashed in Ford on 9th January 1944. The crash involved a larger crew, most of whom survived.

  • The Aylesbury Vale Views: As you walk the level paths of the Midshires Way, keep an eye on the southern horizon. The route offers fantastic, distant views of the Chiltern Escarpment, including landmarks like Coombe Hill.

  • River Thame Tributaries: The route crosses several small brooks and drainage ditches that eventually feed into the River Thame, highlighting the low-lying, fertile nature of the Vale's agricultural land.

  • Kimble Wick: Part of the wider parish of Great and Little Kimble cum Marsh. It is famously the namesake of the Kimblewick bit, a type of horse bit first developed here by local farmer and showjumper Felix Oliver.

Midshires Way previous section South: Ilmer and Longwick
Midshires Way next section North: Ford and Michael's Peace

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Richard gowerTrek, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: Flackwell Heath and Sheepridge
Scenic view of rolling green farmland near Sheepridge in the Buckinghamshire Chilterns.

Farmland near Sheepridge

Start & Finish: On street parking near The Three Horseshoes pub, Treadaway Road, Flackwell Heath, HP10 9PG
Distance: 8.1 km (5 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 139m
Terrain: Field-edge paths, ancient woodland trails, quiet country lanes, and village footpaths with some moderate ascents.
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Chiltern Way
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: Several in Flackwell Heath at the start and end. We stopped at The Crooked Billet, Sheepridge, 3.3 km in
Map: Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenhead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: Flackwell Heath, Sheepridge, Little Marlow

This is part of a series of short circular walks in the Chilterns. This is centred around Flackwell Heath, a large village perched on a ridge overlooking the Wye Valley and takes in the small villages of Sheepridge and Fern.

Walking Directions

For this walk we parked on the Treadaway Road near the Three Horseshoes pub. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at Treadaway Road: Begin by following Treadaway Road in a north-easterly direction from near The Three Horseshoes pub until you reach the junction with Swains Lane.

  • Enter the Woods: Cross the junction and take the footpath leading through the woodland in a northerly direction.

  • Join the Chiltern Way: Upon reaching the M40 underpass, you have reached the Chiltern Way. Turn left to follow this trail south-west along a field edge, then through further woodland until you reach Heath End Road.

  • Descent to Sheepridge: Turn right onto Heath End Road for 250m, then take the footpath on your left. Continue following the Chiltern Way as it descends along the edge of a field down to Sheepridge Lane.

  • The Crooked Billet: Turn right onto Sheepridge Lane and walk south-west to reach The Crooked Billet pub, an ideal halfway stop approximately 3.3 km into the walk.

  • Ascend through Woodland: After the pub, take a right off Sheepridge Lane to ascend through the woods. After roughly 800m, reach a path junction where you will turn left, leaving the Chiltern Way to descend through a mix of woodland and farmland toward Fern Lane.

  • Little Marlow Cemetery: Walk through Little Marlow Cemetery to return to Sheepridge Lane. Turn left and follow the lane north until it curves; here, carefully cross over and take the footpath through the farm.

  • Return to Flackwell Heath: Follow the farm path all the way back to Sedgemoor Lane. Continue north through the village via Sedgemoor Road, Hedley Road, Straight Bit, and The Common to return to the start on Treadaway Road.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Flackwell Heath: The starting and ending point of your journey. Historically known for its cherry orchards, the village sits at an elevation of approximately 111 metres, providing a high vantage point before you begin your descent. The village was once the centre of the local cherry-growing industry. Look out for remaining orchards or older trees on the boundaries of the common.

  • The Crooked Billet: This historic pub in Sheepridge dates back to the 16th century. It is a quintessential timber-framed Chilterns building, famously offering a traditional atmosphere that feels worlds away from the nearby busy roads.

  • Little Marlow Cemetery & Parish: While the walk passes the cemetery, the village of Little Marlow itself is just to the south. The area is notable for its film history, having been used as a location for various productions, including The Vicar of Dibley.

  • Ancient Hedgerows and Wooded Paths: A significant portion of the walk follows established boundary lines and sheltered tracks. These paths are typical of the ancient agricultural landscape of the area, offering a tranquil environment and a chance to spot local wildlife.

  • Rolling Countryside Views: As the trail loops back toward Flackwell Heath, the elevation changes—dropping as low as 40 metres near the valley floor—provide expansive views of the surrounding hills and the patchwork of fields that define this part of the Chilterns.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 2: Ilmer and Longwick
A historic wooden water wheel on North Mill Road near Longwick on the Midshires Way.

Water Wheel on North Mill Road

Start & Finish: Longwick Stores And Post Office, Thame Road, Longwick, Princes Risborough, HP27 9SF
Distance: 8.3 km (5.2 miles). Can be shortened by ~1 km by removing the detours. See walk description.
Elevation change: +/- 37m
Terrain: Level field-edge paths, quiet country lanes, and agricultural tracks.
Midshires Way section covered: North Mill Road to Longwick: 3.6 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, Swan Way, Outer Aylesbury Ring,
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Red Lion Longwick, just off the route at the start and end.
OS Trig Pillar: TP5612 - Red House Farm
Disused Station: Ilmer Halt
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: Longwick, Ilmer, Aylesbury Vale,

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

For this walk, we set out from Longwick, a pleasant village situated in the Aylesbury Vale just north of Princes Risborough. This circular route explores the quiet, low-lying farmlands of Buckinghamshire, leading us through the small hamlet of Ilmer and offering wide, open views of the Chiltern escarpment in the distance.

The trail is largely level, making it a relaxing journey through a patchwork of fields and narrow country lanes. It captures the quintessential rural charm of this part of the county, where ancient hedgerows and slow-moving streams define the landscape. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start in Longwick, where there’s free on-street parking near the Longwick Stores and Post Office on the A4129 Thame Road.

  • Take Walnut Tree Lane in a south-westerly direction toward the edge of the village.

  • When you reach the open field on the right hand side, where the Lane becomes a track, you have the option of taking a 800m out-and back diversion to bag the Red House Farm Trig Pillar. You’ll need to keep to the outside of the field to avoid damaging crops.

  • After passing under the railway bridge continue in a south-westerly direction for 300m then take a path on the left. Follow this path in a south-easterly direction for 220m then take a right to head south-west.

  • At the corner of the field you’ll meet the Midshires Way near a kink in the Horsenden Stream. You could take a right to follow the Midshires but you’ll have missed a very small section that connects to Part 1 of this series. For completer-finishers you can continue walking south-west to the corner of North Mill Road / Sandpit Lane where you crossed over the Horsenden Stream in Part 1. Retrace your steps back to the field-corner taking a moment to admire the old wooden water-wheel.

  • Follow The Midshires Way / Swan Way in a north-westerly direction along field edges until you meet Ilmer Lane. Take a right onto Ilmer Lane to cross under the railway bridge. On the right you can see a house called The Sidings, a clue that the old Ilmer Halt railway station was once located here.

  • Continue along Ilmer Lane in a north-easterly direction, cross over the A4129 Thame Road and along the track to the left of the entrance to the flower nursery.

  • Approximately 300m after crossing the A4129 take the first footpath on the right to leave the Midshires Way to cross open fields in an easterly direction to Bar Lane.

  • Take a right onto Bar Lane to follow it back to the start at the A4129 in Longwick Village.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Longwick: Our starting point is a village with a long agricultural history. Local produce from this area, including watercress and willow poles, was historically exported to London markets via the nearby railway.

  • Longwick Mill: Located in Longwick, this mill was part of a thriving network of local businesses that benefited from regional freight services.

  • Red House Farm Trig Pillar: Sitting at an elevation of 92m, this concrete pillar (TP5612) is part of the historic Ordnance Survey triangulation network used to map the UK.

  • Ilmer: A tiny, secluded hamlet known for the Grade II* listed St Peter’s Church. The name Ilmer is thought to mean "Yewmere," referring to a lake where yew trees grew.

  • The Horsenden Stream: A quiet tributary that the route follows near the Red House Farm. Its gentle flow is a key feature of the low-lying Aylesbury Vale landscape.

  • Ilmer Halt (Disused Station): Opened in 1929 and closed in 1963, this was one of the smallest "halts" on the Great Western Railway. The nearby house "The Sidings" marks the spot where commuters once boarded steam trains.

  • Views of the Chilterns: While the walk itself remains in the vale, the elevation changes provide a fantastic perspective of the nearby ridge, including Wain Hill.

Midshires Way previous section South: Hempton Wainhill & Bledlow
Midshires Way next section North: Ford and Kemble Wick

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Richard gowerTrek, Trig Pillar, Disused Railway, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Trig Pillar Walks: Brill Windmill and Muswell Hill
Panoramic views from Muswell Hill SSSI looking across the Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire countryside.

Muswell Hill Trig Pillar

Start & Finish: Brill Windmill, South Hills, Brill, Aylesbury, HP18 9TQ
Distance: 7.6 km (4.7 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 125m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Terrain: Rolling hilltop ridges, open common land, geological SSSI sites, and village footpaths.
Other routes touched (walk): Bernwood Jubilee Way, Piddington Circular Walk
Other routes touched (cycle): National Byway
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Pointer, The Pheasant, both in Brill at the start and end of the walk.
OS Trig Pillars: TP0728 - Muswell Hill and (just off route) TP1632 - Brill House
Map: Oxford Map | Witney & Woodstock | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 180
Links: Brill, Brill Windmill, Muswell Hill (Buckinghamshire), Brill Tramway, Bernwood Forest.

This is part of a series of short circular walks in the Buckinghamshire based around bagging an Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar. If you’ve searched for or stumbled across this page then you probably already know what an OS Trig Pillar is. If you don’t then this article from the Ordnance Survey is a good place to start.

The Muswell Hill Trig Pillar is right on the route but the Brill House Pillar is just off the rout to the south-east of Brill just off the Thame Road. We bagged it as a drive-by after the main walk but you could add it into the walk by walking to it, and back, when you get to Church Street. This will add an extra 800m to the total route length.

Note that Muswell Hill shouldn’t be confused with the place in London of the same name. The two places named Muswell Hill, one in London and one in Buckinghamshire, share a similar name but not a proven shared origin. London’s Muswell Hill is well documented as taking its name from a medieval healing spring known as the “Mus Well,” which attracted pilgrims. The Buckinghamshire Muswell Hill, near Brill, is historically associated with a hermitage and chapel, giving it its own religious significance, though no clear evidence links its name to a well or to the London site. While both locations have medieval religious associations, the connection between them appears to be coincidental rather than a direct naming relationship.

Walking Directions

For this walk we parked at Brill in the free parking spaces outside the historic Windmill. This circular route begins at the iconic 17th-century post mill, leading you through an undulating landscape with expansive vistas across the Vale of Aylesbury. It was Christmas Day, and we were very lucky to have a bright, sunny day for our stroll.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at Brill Common: Begin at the historic Brill Windmill. Walk south-west across the undulating mounds of the common, which were formed by ancient clay workings.

  • Brill Village: Walk down Windmil Street in a south-easterly direction towards the village centre. Take a left onto Temple Street then a right on to a footpath that joins the Bernwood Jubilee Way. Keep on the Bernwood Jubilee Way as it traces a circle of the village, passing All Saints Church and onto The Square. After 1.4 km into the walk you’ll reach South Hills (road) where you’ll get another view of the Windmill.

  • The Jubilee Way: Keep following the Bernwood Jubilee Way in a westerly direction to the B4011.

  • Busy Road. Take a right onto this road to follow it in a northerly direction. Please note that there is no pavement here, so you need to be very careful of any approaching cars. Continue until you pass the signs marking the Oxfordshire/Buckinghamshire border. Just past these, take a right onto a footpath that also forms part of the Piddington circular walk.

  • Muswell Hill Ascent: Follow the path north-west to begin the steady climb up Muswell Hill (Buckinghamshire). As you reach the top, you will enter the geological SSSI area.

  • Private Drive: At the top of the hill, cross over the road and take the footpath on the left that follows a private drive. As you walk along the drive, look to your right and you will be able to see the trig pillar poking up over the top of the hill. When you turn the corner on the private drive, look out for the footpath on the right: there is a stile to climb over the fence.

  • Panoramic Views: Take time at the summit of Muswell Hill to enjoy the 360-degree views across the Vale of Aylesbury and toward the Oxfordshire border.

  • Return to Brill: After the trig pillar, keep walking in the same direction diagonally across the field to the stile in the corner. Earlier, take a left and follow the road all the way back to the Windmill to complete the loop.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Brill Windmill: Built around 1685, this is one of the best-preserved examples of a "post mill" in the UK. Its timber frame is Grade II* listed and offers a direct link to the village's agricultural past.

  • Muswell Hill (Buckinghamshire): A 0.2-hectare geological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is significant for its early Cretaceous sandstones and ironstones, providing a window into the area’s prehistoric environment.

  • The Brill Tramway Terminus: The route passes the site of Brill’s former tramway terminus. Remarkably, until 1935 this quiet hilltop was linked by the Metropolitan Railway all the way to Baker Street in central London.

  • Tolkien Connection: Scholars note that Tolkien drew inspiration for the village of Bree from Brill—both linguistically (“hill‑hill”) and from his familiarity with the area during his Oxford years.

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Richard gowerTrek, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Trig Pillar, EnglandComment
Walking The Midshires Way Part 1: Hempton Wainhill & Bledlow
An old Buckinghamshire road sign pointing right to Bledlow Ridge and Left to Chinnor and Princes Risborough

Road junction at Bledlow

Start & Finish: Lions Of Bledlow, Church End, Bledlow, Princes Risborough, HP27 9PE
Distance: 10.2 km (6.4 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 121m
Terrain: Elevated ridge-top bridleways, sheltered woodland trails, and level field-edge paths following the old railway line.
Midshires Way section covered: The Ridgeway at Wainhill to North Mill Road: 3.7 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, Chiltern Way, The Ridgeway, Risborough Pink Route, Risborough Green Route
Other routes touched (cycle): Phoenix Trail, NCN 57
Pubs / Cafes on route: Lions Of Bledlow at start and end
Disused Stations: Bledlow, Bledlow Bridge Halt
Map: Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
Links: Bledlow, The Ridgeway, Midshires Way, Horsenden

This is part of a series of short circular walks following the length of the Midshires Way in Buckinghamshire. The Midshires Way is a 225-mile (362 km) trail that journeys through the rural heart of Middle England, linking the Ridgeway National Trail at Bledlow in the south to the Trans Pennine Trail at Stockport in the north. Opened in 1994, this route traverses several counties, including Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester, following a scenic tapestry of ancient bridleways, quiet country lanes, and historic canals. In Buckinghamshire, the Midshires Way has a significant connection with the Swan's Way (often referred to as the Swan Way), a 65-mile long-distance bridleway. Essentially, the Swan's Way forms the backbone of the Buckinghamshire section of the Midshires Way, with the two routes being broadly coincident for approximately 50 miles between Salcey Forest and Bledlow. While the Swan's Way strictly adheres to bridleways to accommodate horse riders and cyclists, the Midshires Way sometimes offers alternative waymarked footpaths for walkers to avoid on-road sections.

Walking Directions

For this first section of the Midshires Way we parked near the Lions of Bledlow Pub. The route is a figure of 8, returning to the Lions at th3 3.6 km mark. The reason for this figure of 8 shape is to use the Chiltern Way and Ridgeway to get to the start of the Midshires Way then follow the Midshires Way in a northerly direction. This northerly direction will be consistent for all walks in this series. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Starting from The Lions Of Bledlow walk along Church End (road) in a north-easterly direction then take the first footpath on the right to join the Chiltern Way. Follow the Chiltern Way in a south-easterly direction until the Upper Icknield Way.

  • Take a right and follow the Upper Icknield Way in a westerly direction, connecting to the Ridgeway before entering the woods. When you reach the house at the top of the hill you are now at the start of the Midshires Way.

  • Take a right to leave the Ridgeway and follow the Midshires Way down the hill back to the Lions of Bledlow. Here you’ll get a great view of the Vale of Aylesbury to the north of the Chilterns.

  • Pass the Lions of Bledlow to follow Church Lane again. This time continue past the Chiltern Way footpath that you took earlier and continue to the junction with Bledlow Ridge Road and Perry Lane.

  • Take a left onto Perry Lane and follow it in a northerly direction to the junction with Chinnor Road and Lower Icknield Way, Half way along Perry Road you’ll pass under a railway bridge that carries the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Heritage Railway. The old Bledlow Bridge Halt was near this bridge.

  • Cross over the junction to Chapel Lane then take a right to follow Sandpit Lane. Follow Sandpit Lane in a northerly direction, crossing over the Phoenix trail, another disused railway. As you cross the Phoenix Trail look to your left to see the old Bledlow Station building.

  • Continue north up Sandpit Lane to North Mill Road where you’ll cross a small bridge over the Lyde Brook. Take a right to continue along North Mill Road keeping the Lyde Brook on your right.

  • Take the first footpath on the right, leaving the Midshires Way to cross over the Lyde Brook / Horsenden Stream. Follow the path across the fields to Lower Icknield Way.

  • Take a right onto Lower Icknield Way, passing under the old railway bridge that carries the Phoenix Trail. On the southern side of the bridge take a left to follow the Risborough Pink Route to Horsenden. Along the way you’ll pass over the level crossing for the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Heritage Railway.

  • When you reach the small village of Horsenden take a right to continue along the Risborough Pink Route back to Perry Lane. Take a left onto Perry Lane the a right onto Church End to return back to the start at the Lions of Bledlow.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Bledlow Village: A quintessential Buckinghamshire village featuring flint and brick cottages and the beautiful church of the Holy Trinity.

  • The Lyde Garden: Located just past the Holy Trinity Church, this "secret" water garden was created in a deep chalk sunken garden where natural springs surface.

  • Holy Trinity Church: A 12th-century church that has remained largely unchanged since the 13th century. It features a prominent tower with a peal of eight bells and a nave with columns dating back to approximately 1200.

  • Bledlow Cross: A large cross cut into the chalk turf on the north slope of Wain Hill. Although often overgrown, it is a significant local landmark dating back to at least the late 1700s.

  • Bledlow Station: Now a private residence, this station was built in 1863 by the Wycombe and District Railway Company and absorbed into Isambard Kingdom Brunel's Great Western Railway in 1867. At its peak, it was a vital hub for local industries: importing rags for paper production at Bledlow Lower Mill and exporting finished goods, watercress, and willow poles to London markets. Though closed to passengers in 1967 due to the Beeching Act, the line served a freight depot in Thame until 1991.

  • Bledlow Lower Mill: Formerly known as Saunderton Lower Mill, this site harnessed the power of the Horsenden Stream to produce paper from linen and cotton rag. The mill's overshot waterwheel can still be seen today.

Midshires Way next section North: Ilmer and Longwick

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, England, Disused RailwayComment
Cookham Dean and Bisham Wood Circular Walk
A peaceful winter trail through the ancient beech and oak trees of Bisham Wood in Berkshire.

A winter’s day in Bisham Wood

Start & Finish: The Golden Ball Pub and Kitchen, 2 Golden Ball Lane, Maidenhead, SL6 6NW
Distance: 6.9 km (4.3 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 77m
Terrain: Quiet village lanes, woodland tracks through ancient beech woods, and field-edge footpaths.
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Maidenhead Boundary Walk, Maidenhead Millennium Walk, Maidenhead Commons Trail, The Chiltern Way Berkshire Loop
Other routes touched (cycle): Round Berkshire Cycle Route
OS Trig Pillar: TP5638 - Resr Mount Hill (On private property and not visible from the public right of way)
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Golden Ball at the start and finish
Map: Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenhead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: National Trust Maidenhead and Cookham Commons. Cookham Dean, Bisham Woods, Cookham, Kenneth Grahame, Wind in the Willows

This circular route offers a delightful journey through the rolling landscape of Berkshire and the edges of the Chilterns. The trail takes you through a beautiful combination of ancient woodland and open commons, providing a real sense of peace as you move between the sheltered forest tracks and elevated village paths. It is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a varied landscape within a relatively compact distance.

Walking Directions

For this walk we parked on Golden Ball Lane near the pub of the same name. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at The Golden Ball: Begin at the pub on Golden Ball Lane and head east. Cross over Winter Hill Road to continue onto Malders Lane.

  • Enter the Old Brick Works: Shortly on your right, enter the National Trust Old Brick Works. Follow the trail down to the pond, circling it to the east before taking the exit path on the right that runs along its eastern edge back up to Malders Lane.

  • Cross to the Fields: Turn right on Malders Lane for approximately 150m. At the junction of the Maidenhead Boundary and Millennium walks, take a left to head north across the open field.

  • Long Lane Crossing: Upon reaching the driveway at the 2km mark (Copas Brothers property), turn right and follow it to Long Lane. Cross directly over to Spring Lane and continue north.

  • Village Navigation: Turn left onto Pudseys Close. Follow this west, cross Church Road, and traverse the village green to reach Hollybush Lane.

  • Into the Woods: Cross Bigfrith Lane onto Hackett Lane. Follow it to the very end where it enters the ancient canopy of Bisham Woods.

  • The Woodland Loop: Follow the main tracks in an anti-clockwise curve. You will pass through High Wood and Inkydown Wood before entering Park Wood and finally Goulding Wood.

  • The Return: The path exits the southern corner of Goulding Wood onto Marlow Road. Turn right to return to the junction with Golden Ball Lane.

  • Finish: Complete the circular route back at The Golden Ball pub for refreshments.

If you’re feeling adventurous and a bit tresspassy you could bag the Resr Mount Hill OS Trig Pillar. It’s next to the top of the reservoir on Thames Water Property. The locked gate to the driveway up to it is off Pudseys Close. We had a look but decided not to risk it that day.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • National Trust Old Brick Works: A hidden gem of industrial archaeology. These former clay pits now form a peaceful woodland area and pond, managed for wildlife.

  • Cookham Dean: This picturesque village is the start and end of your journey. Known for its historic charm and as the childhood home of Kenneth Grahame, the author of The Wind in the Willows, it sets a classic English tone for the walk.

  • Bisham Woods: A significant portion of the route passes through these ancient woods. They are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and offer a stunning canopy of beech and oak trees, particularly vibrant during the autumn months.

  • Quarry Wood: As you transition through the woodland areas, you will pass through sections of Quarry Wood. These slopes provide atmospheric walking paths and occasional glimpses through the trees toward the Thames Valley.

  • Winter Hill: Although the main trail stays largely within the woods and village fringes, the route skirts the area near Winter Hill, offering potential for expansive views across the River Thames toward Marlow.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, National Trust, Berkshire, England, Trig PillarComment
Chiltern Walks: The Two Rivers Walk from Amersham to Chesham
Panoramic view looking down towards the historic buildings of Old Amersham from the edge of Parsonage Wood.

View to Old Amersham from the edge of Parsonage Wood

Start: Old Amersham Market Hall, 19 Market Square, Amersham, HP7 0DG
Finish: Chesham Underground Station, Station Approach, Chesham HP5 1DH, United Kingdom
Distance: 5.7 km (3.5 miles)
Elevation change: +93m / -76m. Net - 17m
Terrain: Town pavements, field-edge footpaths, ancient woodland trails through Chesham Bois, and parkland tracks.
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): South Bucks Way, Chiltern Heritage Trail, Chess Valley Walk, Chiltern Link
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 57, Chiltern Heritage Trail Hampden, Harding and Milton Routes
Pubs / Cafes on route: Many in Amersham and Chesham. We like Seasons at the start in Old Amersham
Map: Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenhead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: Amersham, Chesham Bois, Chesham, River Misbourne, River Chess, Chalk stream.

This is part of a series of short walks in the Chilterns. This point-to-point route, often referred to as a "Two Rivers Walk" link, offers a delightful exploration of the Misbourne and Chess Valleys. It connects the historic market town of Old Amersham with the surrounding countryside, providing a mix of riverside paths, open meadows, and gentle hillside tracks. It is a fantastic option for those who enjoy historic architecture alongside their nature fix. You can return to the start by Underground and an additional 1 kilometre walk at the end.

Walking Directions

For this walk we parked at Old Amersham, specifically near St Mary’s Church or the public parking area off The Broadway. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

  • Start at Market Square: From the Old Amersham Market Hall, walk north through the grounds of St Mary’s Church to reach Rectory Drive.

  • Climb the Hill: Turn right, then left at the cemetery wall. Follow the path up the hill with the field on your right; stop at the edge of the woods to enjoy the classic Chilterns view back toward the town.

  • Through the Woods: Continue through the woodland to the north-western corner. Follow Rectory Hill road under the railway bridge.

  • Hervines Park: Turn left onto Longfield Drive, then take the footpath on the right to cross the open space of Hervines Park.

  • Chesham Bois: Cross Hervines Road and continue north-east. Turn right on Copperkins Lane, then left onto Chesham Lane. Instead of the pavement, follow the quieter parallel paths through Chesham Bois Woods.

  • Descent to Chesham: Near the top of the hill, take Maryhall Lane (left), which becomes a footpath curving north-east through fields.

  • Town Arrival: Enter Chesham via Fuller’s Close (near Chesham United FC) and follow Fullers Hill down to Germain Street.

  • Finish at the Station: Cross into Market Square, walk up the High Street, and turn right onto Station Road to reach Chesham Underground Station.

  • Return to Old Amersham: We took the Underground to Chalfont and Latimer then changed to take another Underground to Amersham. From here we retraced the first kilometre of the Two Rivers Walk back to Market Square in Amersham.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

  • Old Amersham High Street: Before or after your walk, take a moment to admire the timber-framed buildings and the 17th-century Market Hall. The town has a rich history as a "Metroland" hub and a popular filming location.

  • St Mary’s Church, Amersham: A beautiful 12th-century flint church. Look for the Drake Chapel, which contains monuments to the local Drake family who lived at nearby Shardeloes.

  • River Misbourne: The walk follows sections of this rare chalk stream. These streams are a unique feature of the Chilterns, known for their clear water and supporting specialised wildlife.

  • Hervines Park: A large open space popular with locals. The path here offers a transition from the suburban feel of Amersham-on-the-Hill to the more rural Chiltern countryside.

  • Chesham Bois Common: The route brushes past the edge of this serene wooded common, which is particularly atmospheric in the autumn months with its canopy of beech and oak.

  • Chesham Bois Woods: These ancient woods are part of the local history of the Chilterns' "bodgers" (wood-turners). The canopy is primarily beech, typical of the region.

  • Chesham Links: As the route nears its northernmost point, it provides easy access to the outskirts of Chesham. This section offers a slightly different character as it transitions from the broad Misbourne valley toward the residential fringes of the town, allowing walkers to see the connectivity between these two historic Chiltern settlements.

  • The River Chess: Upon arriving in Chesham, you meet the second of the "Two Rivers". Like the Misbourne, it is a rare chalk stream, home to water voles and brown trout.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Cycling The Salt Hill Stream, Hay Mill Stream and Chalvey Ditch
A view of the Chalvey Ditch stream flowing through a concrete culvert under the M4 motorway bridge at Cippenham.

The Chalvey Ditch before it passes under the M4 at Cippenham

I was inspired to cycle the Salt Hill Stream and Hay Mill Stream / Chalvey Ditch after joining an event called Slough’s Lost Rivers. This event was hosted by Project Sponge in 2025 that helped us learn more about these lesser known streams. I had a particular interest in finding out more about the Chalvey Ditch as it runs through Cippenham where my parents grew up. I remember my Dad telling me stories of how he used to play in the open fields around the village green. The fields are now long gone, having been replaced by housing, but the stream that he would have played near is still there if you know where to look.

A big thanks to Gerald Higgins whose research into these streams has been a great contributor to the content of this post.

The Salt Hill Stream

The stream used to feed the mill which was in Salt Hill Park just north of the A4 Bath Road. The stream which flows through Salt Hill Park has two main feeder streams. The longest one starts near Fulmer on the edge of Frame Wood just south of Stoke Common and flows in a south-westerly direction through Stoke Park.

The easterly feeder starts in Stoke Wood, just to the east of Farnham Common and flows south into Brockhurst Wood, through South Buckinghamshire Golf Course and into Stoke Park. The two feeder streams converge near Northern Road, south of Stoke Park and at the northern end of the Manor Park estate. From there the stream flows south to Salt Hill Park, under the M4 and the Jubilee River towards the Thames. It goes across Eton College land and goes under Beggars Bridge on the Slough Road and flows along the side of Pococks Lane to join the River Thames.

The Hay Mill Stream and Chalvey Ditch

The stream used to start on the east side of Bedford Drive then went across into what is now Burnham Beeches. It flows into Upper Pond and on into Middle Pond. From here it flows to Swilley Pond and goes under Hawthorn Lane. From Swilley Pond the old course was across Crow Piece Lane and down the valley behind Burnham Civic Amenity Site. The course went across Farnham Lane near the junction with Walton Lane through Cocksherd Wood and continued down the valley to flow into the mill pond.

The whole area of the mill pond is now Haymill Valley Community Nature Reserve (The Millie), and the underground reservoir by Burnham Lane. The stream flows through the Millie although a lot of it is through reed beds. It enters a culvert before going underground again. Streamside Walk follows the course until it reappears out of the culvert passing through housing to cross under the M4 near Asda. When it emerges on the other side it has been diverted from its original course to run on the north side of the Jubilee River. It goes under the A355 and meets up with the stream from Salt Hill. From this point the stream flows west and joins its original course. It flows across Eton College land and goes under 14 Arch Bridge. It continues across Eton College land to join the River Thames.

The Cycle Route

For the cycle route I started with the Salt Hill Stream on the easterly feeder, following its course as closely as possible to the Thames. Then I followed the Thames to find the confluence with the Chalvey Ditch to follow it up to its source.

Cycle route start and end: The Broadway, Farnham Common, Slough SL2 3NE
Cycle route length: 28.7 km (17.8 miles)
Cycle route elevation change: +/- 126m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Beeches Way, Shakespeare’s Way, Jubilee River Path, Thames Path
Other routes touched (cycle): Beeches Cycleway, NCN 4, 461
Maps:
- Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenhead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: Farnham Common, Slough, Chalvey, Jubilee River, Eton, Eton Wick, Cippenham, Burnham

 

Part 1: Cycling the Salt Hill Stream from the source to the confluence with the Thames

This section starts at Farnham Common where there’s a parade of shops, a Costa Coffee and several pubs and restaurants. The village, on the edge of Burnham Beeches, was historically a stomping ground for highwaymen and is now a peaceful gateway to the Beeches. It’s a good meeting place for several cycle routes in the area. From the shops cycle north along the A355 Beaconsfield Road and then take a right onto Templewood Lane. At approximately 1.5 km into the route you’ll pass over the Salt Hill Stream. This is the closest you’ll get to the start of the stream as the source is inside the private woodland to the north of the lane.

Continue along Templewood Lane then take a right on the bridleway when the land curves to the left. Follow this bridleway in a southerly direction, connecting to the Beeches Way and Shakespeare’s Way. When you reach the first house on the right take a right to follow a small lane which leads to a footpath heading west through woodland back towards Farnham Common.

Shortly after the 3km point of the trip you’ll descend down to the Salt Hill Stream crossing over a small arched brick bridge. Continue along the path between Ingram’s Copse and Parson’s Wood to Parsonage Lane. Take a left onto Parsonage Lane and follow it in a southerly direction to the junction with Park Road. Take a right onto Park Road to the double roundabout at Farnham Royal. Take a left to follow Farnham Road in a southerly direction then a left onto Church Road. Follow Church Road as it becomes a bridleway then take a left onto Northern Road. You’re now in the Manor Park Estate.

Navigate Villiers Road, Douglas Road, Stanton Road, Granville Avenue and Pippin Close to travel south into the north-western corner of Granville Recreation Ground. Here you’ll see the Salt Hill Stream on the western edge of the park. Continue south through the park then exit onto Waterbeach Road where you’ll take a left. Cross over Oatlands Drive onto Hughenden Road, following it east into Godolphin Recreation Ground. Follow the eastern edge of the Recreation Ground, under the railway bridge and into Salt Hill Park. Here you’ll get some good views of the Salt Hill Stream with several information boards describing it.

At the southern exit of Salt Hill Park carefully cross over the busy A4 Bath Road and pick up the path that runs alongside the stream on the western side of the Montem Ice Rink. Look out for the Montem Mound. This Scheduled Ancient Monument is an Anglo-Saxon burial mound (tumulus) dating back to the 7th century, originally thought to be the burial site of a high-status individual. It was also the site of the bizarre 'Eton Montem' ceremony held by Eton College students until 1847.

Take a left when you get to Church Street then a right onto Chalvey High Street, a left onto Spackmans Way then a left onto the cycle path at the junction of Spackmans Way and Primary Road. Continue along the path then curve to the right when it reaches the railway line.

When you reach the Jubilee River follow the path on the northern side where you’ll cross over the Salt Hill Stream before you cross this man-made flood relief channel. Completed in 2002, it diverts water from the River Thames to reduce flood risk in Maidenhead, Windsor, and Eton. It has since become a thriving wildlife corridor for birds and fish.

Once on the southern side of the Jubilee River take a left to follow the Jubilee River footpath back in an easterly direction, shortly crossing over the Salt Hill Stream as it emerges from the river. Continue east under the railway then take a right onto a path that crosses over Woodham Road and into the grounds of an Eton College Sports Field.

Continue through the grounds of the sports field then take a right onto the B3022 Slough Road. After the mini roundabout take a left to follow the path past the Upper Club gatehouse then curve round to the right to follow a path that runs parallel to the Thames. Right after the curve you’ll reach a small bridge over the Salt Hill Stream. Here you can see the confluence of the Colenorton Brook with the River Thames.

 

Part 2: Between the Colenorton Brook and Boveney Ditch

Boveney Ditch before it meets the Thames

From the Colenorton Bridge in Upper Club, continue cycling in a south-westerly direction back to the B3022 Slough Road. Cross over the B3022 and follow Common Lane in a north-westerly direction through the heart of Eton College. This world-famous public school, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI. The college has educated 20 British Prime Ministers and features historic architecture dating back to the 15th century.

Follow the path on the eastern side of the Eton Great Common to Eton Wick Road. Cross over Eton Wick Road and follow the path diagonally across the field to cross under the railway bridge. Continue in a south-westerly direction to reach Meadow Lane next to the Thames. Take a right onto Meadow Lane, following it under the A332 to join up with the Thames Path.

Follow the Thames Path to Boveney Bridge where you’ll see the confluence of the Boveney Ditch and the River Thames. This small watercourse joins the Thames near Boveney. Nearby is St Mary Magdalene Church, a 12th-century church that served the bargees (barge workers) on the Thames. It is now cared for by the Friends of Friendless Churches.

Take a right onto the path on the eastern side of Boveney Bridge to follow it north along the eastern side of Eton Wick Recreation Ground to Eton Wick Road. Eton Wick is a village that grew to support the college and the castle. The recreation ground here offers open views of Windsor Castle in the distance. Take a left onto Eton Wick Road then first right on to Bell Lane. Take a left onto Alma Road, a right onto Inkerman Road and another right onto Moores Lane.

Follow Moores Lane in a northerly direction as it becomes a path then cross over the Jubilee River bridge. Take a right onto Wood Lane and continue following it north over the M40. Once you get to the northern side of the M40 bridge take a right to follow the path around the southern side of Asda, heading east to where you’ll meet the Chalvey Ditch. To the south the Chalvey Ditch crosses under the M40 to join the Salt Hill Stream before they both cross under the Jubilee River. We will now be following it north to its source.

 

Part 3: Cycling The Chalvey Ditch from the Jubilee River to the source

Starting from the bridge before the Chalvey Ditch crosses under the M40 follow a path heading north between houses, keeping the Ditch on your left hand side. Cross over Telford Drive and keep the Ditch on your left. When you reach Lodge Farm Park take a left to head west to cross over Telford Drive again. Follow the paths, now keeping the Ditch on your right. Cross over Richards Way continuing west and crossing the ditch twice over small bridges. Take a right onto Waterman Court, now heading north onto Millstream Lane on the eastern side of Cippenham Village Green.

The Village Green is a remnant of the old village of Cippenham, which was once a royal manor. The green is the heart of the historic village, surrounded by older cottages that contrast with the modern development nearby. You’ll see the ditch run right in front of the houses.

Once you reach Lower Cippenham Lane on the northern side of the village green, the Ditch disappears underground only to reappear a bit further north at Haymill Valley Community Nature Reserve. Cross over Lower Cippenham Lane heading north to Ward Gardens. Take a left onto Bowyer Drive then a right onto Elmshott Lane and follow it north to the A4.

Cross over the A4 and follow Station Road to Burnham Lane. Cross Burnham Lane to find a small footpath leading to Littlebrook Avenue. Find the entrance to Haymill Valley Community Nature Reserve. This reserve occupies the site of the former mill pond for the medieval 'Ay Mill'. When the mill fell into disuse after WWII, the pond silted up and became a reed bed. It is now a haven for reed warblers and kingfishers. Follow the path in a northerly direction to the top of the reserve near Whittaker Road. This is the final place you’ll see the uncovered Chalvey Ditch.

To complete the journey cross Whittaker Road and cross Lammas Meadow to Long Furlong Drive. Take Lynch Hill Lane in a northerly direction then take the path through Cocksherd Woods to join Farnham Lane. Follow Farnham Lane in an easterly direction then take a left onto Crown Lane. Follow Crown Lane north, then take a right onto Hawthorn Lane and a left onto Bedford Drive.

The route concludes near Burnham Beeches Nature Reserve. It is famous for its ancient pollarded beech trees, some of which are nearly 500 years old. The area has been a filming location for numerous movies, including Harry Potter and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. At the entrance to Burnham Beeches take a right onto Beeches Road to return back to the start at Farnham Common on the A355 Beaconsfield Road.

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Richard gowerCycle, NCN, Canal, Thames, Chilterns, Colne Valley, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: Marlow Bottom and Hollyhill Wood

The vineyard near Pump Lane

Start & Finish: Marlow Bottom Village Hall, 63 Marlow Bottom, Marlow, SL7 3NA
Distance: 8.6 km (5.3 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 160m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Chiltern Way
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: Rebellion Tap Yard (1.3 km in), The Three Horseshoes at 2.9 km was shut down when we passed it. There’s several shops near the start.
Map: Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenshead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: Marlow Bottom, Hollyhill Wood Stupas

This is part of a series of short circular walks in the Chilterns. The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

For this walk we parked at Marlow Bottom Village Hall near the footpath leading up to into Hunts Wood. This circular route offers a wonderful blend of valley views and tranquil woodland. After Hunts Wood the route climbs steadily toward the north near Handy Cross, passing through a vineyard and crossing The Chiltern Way.

The most interesting part of the hike traverses Hollyhill Wood. Within this section, you'll encounter a truly unexpected and serene site: a series of Tibetan Stupas (also known as *Chortens*). These monuments, appearing as white, domed structures with golden spires, add a unique spiritual dimension to the Buckinghamshire countryside. These stupas were hand-built in the late 1990s by Michael and Tina Choules following a visit to Tibet.

As you loop back, you'll pass through quiet woodland then back into Marlow Bottom with a final climb through Hunts Wood. If you’re tired at the end you can avoid the Hunts Wood section and continue along Marlow Bottom Road to the start.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Walking The Chiltern Way Part 7 - Chalfont St. Giles to Marlow Bottom

Near Wycombe Heights

Start: The Village Green, Chalfont Saint Giles, HP8 4QF
Finish:
Distance: 23.3 km (14.5 Miles)
Elevation change: +376m / -389m. Net -13m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other Routes Touched (walk): Chiltern Way, Red Walk, Chiltern Heritage Trail, South Bucks Way, The Chiltern Way Berkshire Loop
Other Routes Touched (cycle): Chiltern Heritage Trail Milton Route,
Pubs / Cafes on route: Merlins Cave (at the start), The Red Lion, Coleshill (5.7 km in), The Potters Arms, Winchmore Hill (7.4 km in), The Stag, Flackwell Heath (just off course at 16.2 km in), The Crooked Billet, Sheepridge (17.6 km in)
Map: Chiltern Hills East Map | High Wycombe, Maidenshead & Rickmansworth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 172
Links: Chiltern Way (Chiltern Society), Chalfont St Giles, Coleshill, Winchmore Hill, Flackwell Heath, Marlow Bottom

This is the seventh of a series of point to point walks on the Chiltern Way. The full trail is a 177 miles (285 km) long distance path around the Chiltern Hills National Landscape. My friend Brian and I have been doing a section a year on or around the Winter Solstice since 2019. At the current rate we plan to be finished in December 2027. The Chiltern Way is well sign-posted however you should take a map or GPX route to keep on track and be prepared for all weathers. This post isn’t intended as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide.

There is a quiet, poetic symmetry to the Winter Solstice that a simple calendar date can’t quite capture. This year, the 7th occasion of my annual trek with Brian, we managed to bookend the day with almost mathematical precision. We stepped out into the pre-dawn chill exactly 20 minutes before the sun broke the horizon, and we crossed the finish line in Marlow Bottom exactly 20 minutes before it dipped away again. We didn’t just walk the trail; we occupied the day. We claimed every minute of the year's shortest light.

It felt like a hard-earned reward from the universe after a busy fourth quarter. In years past, the "Solstice Walk" has often been a battle of attrition. We’ve been caught out by the elements: weathering thunder, lightning, and the kind of driving December rain that turns a path into a psychological test. But 2025 offered a rare truce. The air was crisp and bright, the kind of cold that keeps you moving but doesn't bite through your layers. Despite a week of heavy rain leading up to the walk, the trails were surprisingly forgiving—a mix of firm ground and tarmac that allowed us to look up at the scenery rather than down at our boots.

As we walked, our conversation followed its own familiar, geological strata—a four-phase evolution we’ve refined over several years of miles. We were laughing at the structure of our own friendship, acknowledging the predictable patterns our brains fall into.

The morning began with Phase 1: the "Essential Download." We bridged the gaps in life, work, and family that had grown since the summer, reflecting heavily on my 50th year and the vibrant memories of my recent trip to Japan. But as the sun climbed higher, we transitioned into Phase 2: Technology. While previous years’ conversations were a discussion of home automation and gadgets, this year was dominated by experimentation with AI.

We wove a long, meta-discussion about the role of Gemini and other models in our creative lives, including the writing of this website. I shared my philosophy: using AI to "get the ball rolling" and handle the heavy lifting of deep research, but never letting it sit in the driver's seat. It was a conversation that actually prompted me to use Gemini to dictate the first version of this post during a post-walk session in the hot tub—capturing the "raw" story while the muscles were finally relaxing.

Phase 3: The cultural exchange of Brian’s book lists and our movie reviews was punctuated by an incredible stroke of "pub luck." In a tradition often marred by "Closed" signs and ill-timed breaks, this year was different. We reached The Stag in Flackwell Heath at 12:00 sharp, just as the key was turning in the lock.

We were the first souls through the door, beating even the chef to the pub. We decided to lean into the comfort, stretching our lunch to a full hour as the "Stag Special" burgers did the heavy work of refueling our systems. The ease of the morning's walk meant we were already two-thirds of the way through our route, and that "ahead of the clock" feeling turned a simple pit stop into a celebration. We followed it up with a short, 2km hop to The Crooked Billet in Sheepridge, a classic, old-fashioned spot that felt like a relic of a different century. A small drink there served as the perfect transition into our final stage.

Phase 4 is always the most tactical. It’s when the conversation shifts from the cerebral to the physical—calculating kilometers, measuring the remaining daylight, and eyeing the finish line. The final 7km stretch toward Marlow Bottom was straightforward and serene, bathed in that low-hanging winter sun that turns the Chilterns into a gallery of gold and grey.

We finished exactly as we started: in the twilight. Having walked the literal span of the day, we reached our destination with 20 minutes of light to spare. It was a perfect 7th chapter to a tradition that, much like our conversations and our pace, only seems to find more rhythm with age.

Previous section: Walking The Chiltern Way Part 6 - Shrub Hill Common to Chalfont St. Giles
Next section: Walking The Chiltern Way Part 8: Marlow Bottom to Maidensgrove. Blog post coming in December 2026

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
London's Coal Duty Posts

View to Rushett Farm airstrip from the Coal Post on the north edge of Ashtead Woods

The Coal Post Boundary compared with the current Greater London Boundary and the M25

Not content with visiting all of the Greater London High Points and OS Trig Pillars in London, I set myself the mission to visit all of the over 200 London Coal Duty Posts that are still standing.

The London Coal Duty Posts mark a fascinating chapter in the capital's history of taxation and urban development. Erected primarily in the 1860s, these posts denote the irregular boundary, roughly 12 to 18 miles from central London, where a tax was levied on coal (and for a period, wine) entering the Metropolitan Police District. This ancient duty, which dates back to the 17th century, was a vital source of income for the Corporation of London, initially intended to fund the rebuilding of the city after the devastating Great Fire of 1666.

The purpose of these posts was to provide clear, visible markers of where the duty became payable, ensuring that no one could feign ignorance of the tax. With the advent of canals and railways in the 19th century, which brought coal into London through new routes, it became necessary to extend the collection points beyond the traditional river Thames entry. Approximately 280 posts were installed along roads, railways, and canals, and remarkably, over 200 of them still survive today, many of them now Grade II listed buildings. While the duty was generally not collected at the posts themselves (this was usually handled by transport companies or coal merchants), the posts served as an undeniable physical demarcation of the chargeable zone.

Though the coal duties were finally abolished in 1890, these unassuming markers remain a tangible link to London's past. The funds raised from these taxes played a significant role in financing numerous crucial public works and improvements across the growing metropolis. Projects such as the construction of the Thames Embankment, the Holborn Viaduct, and the freeing of several Thames bridges from tolls were all beneficiaries of this revenue. So, the next time you encounter one of these distinctive posts, take a moment to appreciate its subtle but profound historical significance – a small piece of iron that helped shape the modern fabric of London.

If you want to find out more about the Coal Duty Posts I highly recommend visiting Martin Nail’s website. It’s an amazingly thorough documentation of the history, location and conditions of the posts. Rather than reproduce anything here, my post below contains my own photos, notes and links to Coal Post themed walks and cycle trips that I have done. I’ve used Martin’s Coal Post numbering and where there’s a link to a specific post it goes to the relevant page on Martin’s website.

If you spot any errors on this page or have new information about any of the posts that I have missed please contact me or comment below. I’ll donate £1 to one of the outdoor causes that I support for every edit made.

The North-East: Posts 1 to 31.

Anti-clockwise from Dagenham to the A1(M). The first 6 posts (#s 0a to 0f) are missing. Coal Post #1 is the first extant post north of the Thames in the east. Scroll down to the Notes section at the bottom of this page for details of missing photos.

 

The North-West: Posts 33 to 83

Anti-clockwise from the A1(M) to the River Thames at Staines. Scroll down to the Notes section at the bottom of this page for details of missing photos.

The South-West: Posts 84 to 164

Anti-clockwise from the River Thames at Staines to Hooley. Scroll down to the Notes section at the bottom of this page for details of missing photos.

The South-East: Posts 165 to 217

Anti-clockwise from the River Thames at Staines to Hooley. Scroll down to the Notes section at the bottom of this page for details of missing photos.

The Final Coal Duty Post at Erith

Although I visited most of the posts in a fairly random order, I saved the final extant and in-place post to the end. I had unknowingly cycled past it years before on the London Loop ride. It’s very easy to miss though as the post is off the path on a grassy peninsula next to the confluence of the rivers Darent and Thames.

To access it, park at the corner of Burnett Road and Ness Road and take the footpath running in a south easterly direction to the footpath running along the river Darent. This path forms part of the London Loop, Cray Riverway Path and the National Cycle Network Route 1. Take a left to follow the path towards the Thames. When you reach the confluence, leave the path to carefully walk down the grassy part where you’ll find the pillar

The Randoms

Here’s a few other posts and markers related to the Corporation of London that are not in Martin’s List of Coal Duty Posts:

Comment below or contact me if you know of any other pillars, posts or markers related to the Corporation of London boundary.

Coal Duty Posts in Museums

  • Coal Duty Post 5 is now at Valence House Museum, Dagenham. It was moved to the museum following road widening in 1960. It is currently outside the museum to left of the front door.

  • Coal Duty Post 63. In Museum of London reserve collections. Originally at the side of Springwell Lane in parapet of Drayton Ford Bridge. Removed in 1923 and in current ownership since 1965. I contacted the Museum in summer 2025 to enquire about visiting the stone but at the time it was not available to see it.

  • Coal Duty Posts 74 and 75 are now on display at the Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St. Giles. They were removed in 1982 in advance of construction of the M25 motorway and have been at the museum since 1998.

  • Coal Duty Post 83, also known as The London Stone, is now on display at Spelthorne Museum in Staines, It was first moved in 1986 and has been at the museum since 2004; it was replaced at its original location by a replica.

Notes

  • #5 has been relocated to the outside of the Valance Museum. See the section on Coal Duty Posts in Museums.

  • #10 is inaccessible but, according to coaldutyposts.co.uk, is visible from the train.

  • #16 is shown as extant on coaldutyposts.co.uk but I couldn't find it when visited in March 2025. Possible road widening or just overgrown?

  • #17 is missing.

  • #32 is missing. See this article for an interesting story about it.

  • #42 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from road”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #50 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from public footpath on opposite side of railway” I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #51 is also the highest point of of the London Borough of Hillingdon.

  • #56 is missing.

  • #218 is out of sequence with the anti-clockwise numbering of the other post. Located between #60 and #62

  • #61 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On private land but visible from permissive footpath on other bank of river”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2020.

  • #63 is now in the reserve collection of the Museum of London

  • #64 is on a Private Road. I decided not to visit.

  • #71 is missing.

  • #79 is on private land. I decided not to visit.

  • #95 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “In grounds of Middle Thames Yacht Club at N side of Sunbury Lock Ait”. I visited in April 2025, assisted by 2 members of the Sunbury Yacht Club but couldn't find it and they couldn’t remember seeing it before. Maybe now missing?

  • #111 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from Stokesheath Road”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #112 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “In garden of house but visible from road”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #135 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “In garden of house but visible from road”. New high fence installed. Not visible when visited in 2025.

  • #170 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from road”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #197 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from Crown Close”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #206 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from public footpath on opposite side of railway”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • #216 is listed on coaldutyposts.co.uk as “On railway land but visible from public footpath”. I couldn’t see it when visited in 2025.

  • I’ve not listed any Coal Duty Posts on this page that were identified as missing on coaldutyposts.co.uk. These are mostly identified with a letter after the number (e.g. 66a). The exceptions are posts identified as missing on coaldutyposts.co.uk but don’t have a letter after the number (e.g. 71) which I’ve noted above.

More London blog posts

Richard gowerCycle, Trek, Canal, Railway, Thames, London, England, Middlesex, Colne Valley, Coal Duty Post Comments
Permanently Cancelled UK parkrun events
 

While there are new parkrun events starting on most weeks, occasionally events are permanently cancelled. The most common reason is due to landowners withdrawing permission, either due to safety or capacity concerns.

There are currently 35 permanently cancelled parkrun events in the UK that were publicly accessible. A further 16 events on closed facilities (e.g. prisons), plus one overseas military base, are also permanently cancelled. There’s a few exceptions which are not included in these numbers and the details on this page.

  • Bakewell parkun started in 2018 and continued until the Covid pause in 2020. It was replaced by Monsall Trail parkun which starts in the same place but runs in the opposite direction. The old Bakewell course headed north to the turning point and The Monsal Trail course runs south to a different turn around point. Both start and finish at the old Hassop Station. I have not counted Bakewell as a cancellation as the event numbers continued through to the Monsall Trail stats.

  • Darley Abbey parkrun started in 2013 and continued until January 2016. It was replaced by Markeaton in March of the same year in a different location. I have not counted Darley Abbey as a cancellation as the event numbers continued through to the Markeaton stats.

  • Morden Hall, Greater London was held as a one-off on June 6th 2009 as part of the Wandle Valley Festival. Following the event, the National Trust grounds were deemed unsuitable for a permanent weekly 5k, likely due to concerns about the impact of regular footfall on the delicate nature of the park or congestion on the paths.

  • Middlesbrough Stewart, North-East England held 3 events on Wednesday nights.

  • There were 4 bespoke parkrun events that were held in 2011/2012. These were: Bramhall Park (6th Sep 2011), Harrogate (7th Jan 2012), Highbury Fields (26th July 2012), Oldham (16th Sep 2012).

The first UK parkrun event to be permanently cancelled was Little Stoke which ended on May 7th 2016. The most recent is Victoria Dock which closed on December 20th 2025.

Ipswich was the event that had the most event numbers before closing at 574. Wythall closed after only 1 event.

Many of these events retain a strong community who would love to see them return, either at the same venue or nearby. I’ll update this page if any return. Note that although Brighouse has been closed since February 24th I’ve received a lot of feedback that there are plans to restart it. I’ve not included it in the listings but I’ll add it in if it doesn’t come back.

Let me know if you have any corrections or additional information to add to this page either by commenting below or via my Contact page. I’m also looking to add photos of the cancelled events, especially the parkrun event name banner. I’ll donate £1 to parkrun for every correction, additional fact or photo used.

Red crosses indicate permanently cancelled public parkrun events. Orange crosses indicate permanently cancelled parkrun events on closed facilities.

Aston Hall

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. Historic County: Warwickshire

  • Inaugural: October 14th 2023. Final event: #34 on August 24th 2024

  • Reason for cancellation: Due a lack of core team. The local football club foundation had invested heavily into the event and made commitments in the process which were then never fully fulfilled. Unfortunately, there is no nearby running club and the local community also didn’t embrace the arrival of parkrun. This meant despite lots of effort by the ambassadors and local other parkruns no core team was ever built and most runners each week were tourists being no regular volunteer base could be established.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Lucas Farls, Paul France, Roderick Hoffman, Amy Louis, Anna McManus, Chris Reeler, Carlo Di Terlizzi, Jo Yarnall

Bodelwyddan Castle

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Wales. County: Denbighshire

  • Inaugural: August 18th 2018. Final event: #35 on June 29th 2019

  • Reason for cancellation: Closure of the castle and grounds to the public.

  • Replaced by: Nova Prestatyn (maybe not officially but many of the core team moved there)

  • Links: Event Home Page, Wikipedia

  • Photos by: Graham Holland

Caldicot

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Wales. County: Gwent / Monmouthshire

  • Inaugural: July 29th 2017. Final event: #7 on October 14th 2017

  • Reason for cancellation: Suspended due to railway works.

  • Replaced by: Rogiet

  • Links: Event Home Page

Castle Howard

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: North Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: September 14th 2019. Final event: #23 on March 7th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: The owners (the Howard Family) felt the parkrun got in the way of their daily operation & opening hours. Also - dissolution of the core volunteer team.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Matt Johnson, Michael Ingham, Victoria Knight-Phillips, Siân Siân, Heather Thomas

Catterick

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: North Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: June 17th 2017. Final event: #135 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Catterick racecourse management decided they could no longer host it, citing reasons like public liability risks, potential disturbance to the on-site fishing club, and plans for their own redevelopment.

  • Replaced by: Thorp Perrow

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Gail Jazmik, Katherine Richards

Churchfields Farm

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. Historic County: Worcestershire

  • Inaugural: December 29th 2018. Final event: #41 on October 19th 2019

  • Reason for cancellation: Churchfields farm business model changed after Covid with an increase in weddings and other events which bought them more money than parkrun. The increase in numbers that this bought meant they could no longer accommodate parkrun. In addition in winter prior to the pandemic the underfoot conditions with it being on a working farm meant it had not run for much of it either

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Carlo Di Terlizzi, Andy Southall, Linda Wheeler

Cuerden Valley

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: North West England. County: Lancashire

  • Inaugural: August 10th 2013. Final event: #329 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to financial struggles and a belief by the Cuerden Valley Trust that parkrun, a national organization, should contribute financially to the park's upkeep.

  • Replaced by: many of the core team moved to Worden

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Gail Jazmik

Dallas Burston Polo Club

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Warwickshire

  • Inaugural: October 16th 2021. Final event: #83 on November 25th 2023

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to ongoing land improvements and development at the estate, which made the parkrun route unusable and unsustainable.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Carlo Di Terlizzi, Lynda Skerratt, Linda Wheeler, Rhiannon Williams, Julia Zimmek

Ellenbrook Fields

  • I completed this event on: June 17th 2017 with a finish time of: 25:52

  • Region: East of England. County: Hertfordshire

  • This event was also part of Chilterns parkrun

  • Inaugural: May 21st 2016. Final Event: #203 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Event organizers could not secure the necessary permission from the landowners to continue hosting the event after the COVID-19 pause.

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page, blog7t write-up

  • Photos by: Roderick Hoffman, Claudia Selina

  • The final stetch of Ellenbrook fields course used the old De Havilland (1930's to 1990's) concrete runway.

Epworth Equestrian

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: Lincolnshire

  • Inaugural: July 29th 2023. Final event: #59 on October 12th 2024

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to low café usage.

  • Replaced by: Vermuyden Way

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Joanna Bailey, Jason Clift-Jones, Paul France, Amanda M-h, Lou Mann, Siân Siân, Alexander J. Thomas, Claire Wilke, Jo Yarnall

Fritton Lake

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East of England. County: Norfolk

  • Inaugural: May 5th 2012. Final event: #356 on March 30th 2019

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to the venue's new management who implemented charges for event use, which clashed with parkrun's free, volunteer-led model, leading to disagreements over costs, event scale, and health/safety responsibilities.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Lorna Salmon

Gainsborough

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East Midlands. County: Lincolnshire

  • Inaugural: May 30th 2015. Final event: #242 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Didn’t restart after Covid as some of the land had planning permission for housing, which went ahead.

  • Replaced by: Thonock Lane Farm

  • Links: Event Home Page

Gibside

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: North East England. Historic County: Durham. Ceremonial County: Tyne and Wear

  • Inaugural: February 22nd 2014. Final event: #280 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and changes on the Gibside estate (National Trust property) making the original course unviable.

  • Replaced by: Chopwell Wood

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Siân Siân

Hanbury Hall

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Worcestershire

  • Inaugural: July 2nd 2016. Final event: #26 on December 31st 2016

  • Reason for cancellation: Its paths and terrain weren't suitable for the large numbers of runners, with concerns about safety on muddy, uneven ground, especially as it wasn't a public park.

  • Links: Event Home Page

Hatfield Forest

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East of England. County: Essex

  • Inaugural: March 21st 2015. Final event: #131 on September 23rd 2017

  • Reason for cancellation: The venue couldn't sustain the growing event, mainly due to a lack of all-weather parking, leading to difficult conditions in winter and limited space.

  • Replaced by: Castle Park

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Roderick Hoffman

Heartwood Forest

  • I completed this event on: January 20th 2018 with a finish time of: 28:00

  • Region: East of England. County: Hertfordshire

  • Inaugural: June 29th 2017. Final event: #47 on October 6th 2018

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to challenges with sustainability, traffic, and potential negative impacts on the growing woodland.

  • Replaced by: Jersey Farm

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page, blog7t write-up

  • Photos by: Roderick Hoffman, Lara Pocock

Henstridge Airfield

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: South West England. County: Somerset

  • Inaugural: September 8th 2018. Final Event: #167 on September 2nd 2023

  • Reason for cancellation: The Event Directors decided they no longer wanted to run it, and without their specific site knowledge for ensuring safety, the Landlord required the event to stop, as no one else with the necessary skills stepped up to take over.

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

  • Photos by: Jane Bell, Kay Boorman, Steve Callow, Hayley Southgate, Julia Zimmek

Inverness

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Scotland. County: Inverness-shire / Highland

  • Inaugural: September 3rd 2011. Final event: #432 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Original venue became unavailable

  • Replaced by: Torvean

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Gareth Llewellyn, Paul Watt

Ipswich

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East of England. County: Suffolk

  • Inaugural: September 8th 2012. Final event: #574 on January 18th 2025.

  • Reason for cancellation: Severe weather and overuse (high footfall) damaging Chantry Park, leading to a need to rest the venue and explore route changes, with organizers working with the council for a return, which eventually happened at a new location, Christchurch Park.

  • Replaced by: Christchurch Park which was previously the winter course for Ipswich.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Fiona Earl, Roderick Hoffman, Dominique Sellors, Robert Sprurgeon, Hailey Swailes, Paul Watt

Knockbracken Reservoir

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Northern Ireland. Historic County: County Down

  • Inaugural: February 29th 2020. Final event: #189 on June 28th 2025

  • Reason for cancellation: Organizers couldn't reach a compromise with the landowner, Let's Go Hydro, regarding the use of their private grounds.

  • Replaced by: Belvoir Forest

  • Links: Event Home Page, Dancing at Lunacy Blog Post

  • Photos by: Michael Conway, Linda Harley Gillespie, Jocasta Williams

Little Stoke

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: South West England. County: Gloucestershire

  • Inaugural: November 3rd 2012. Final event: #173 on May 7th 2016

  • Reason for cancellation: Stoke Gifford Parish Council demanded charges (initially £1 per runner, then for park maintenance), which parkrun organizers, said contradicted the event's free, volunteer-led ethos and would set a dangerous precedent, leading organizers to withdraw the event on safety and principle grounds.

  • Replaced by: Many of the Little Stoke core team went to Eastville, Three Brooks, Pomphrey Hill and Chipping Sodbury

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

  • Photos by: Louise Duggan, Roderick Hoffman, Claire Wilkie

Llanelli Coast

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Wales. County: Carmarthenshire / Dyfed

  • Inaugural: November 19th 2016. Final event: #161 on March 7th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Not due to a single event, but rather its operations shifted to become the nearby Sandy Water parkrun, though the original site faced issues like flooding and changing conditions over time.

  • Replaced by: Sandy Water

  • Links: Event Home Page

Mountbatten School

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: South East England. County: Hampshire

  • Inaugural: March 2nd 2019. Final event: #46 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: The company who ran the Mountbatten School Site removed permission.

  • Replaced by: Ganger Farm

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

  • Photo by: Roderick Hoffman

Mulbarton

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East of England. County: Norfolk

  • Inaugural: March 16th 2013. Final event: #322 on February 8th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: The core team couldn't secure necessary landowner permissions and found no viable permanent alternative location.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo By: Amanda M-h (notparkrun during “the pause”)

New Earswick

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: North Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: April 21st 2018. Final event: #241 on August 30th 2025

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to unresolved capacity issues and conflicts with other activities at the New Earswick Sports & Social Club, the venue's home, leading to unsafe overlaps, parking complaints, and inability to find a workable solution

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Joanna Bailey, Clare Griffiths, Amanda M-h, Hah Nah, Siân Siân, Claire Wilkie

Skegness Boating Lake

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: East Midlands. County: Lincolnshire

  • Inaugural: December 28th 2019. Final event: #12 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: During covid the main carpark entrance for Skegness was moved, it now goes across the course path whereas previously it didn’t.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo By: Ali Sheppard

Storeys Field

  • I completed this event on: July 15th 2023 with a finish time of: 27:07

  • Region: East of England. County: Cambridgeshire

  • Inaugural: July 31st 2021. Final event: #206 on August 30th 2025

  • Reason for cancellation: A new road was built directly through its course in the Eddington development, making the route unsafe and unviable.

  • Replaced by: Brook Leys

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course page

  • Photos by: Jess Furber, Sarah Kimberley, Paul Miles, Terry Robert Spurgeon

Storthes Hall

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: West Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: January 19th 2019. Final event: #50 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: The Storthes Hall Student Village, its host venue, closed down due to business challenges.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Viki Bee Clarke, Gail Jazmik, Finbar Morley

Stranmillis College

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: Northern Ireland. County: County Antrim

  • Inaugural: February 2nd 2019. Final event: #54 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to increasing conflicts with the college's sporting activities, particularly football, meaning the event couldn't safely run when pitches were in use from late summer to mid-February, leading to a mutual decision to stop the weekly run

  • Links: Event Home Page, Dancing At Lunacy Blog Post

  • Photos by: Linda Harley Gillespie

Tees Barrage

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: North East England. County: County Durham

  • Inaugural: June 23rd 2012. Final event: #378 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Reportedly due to a runner tripping and injuring themselves then making a claim against the water authority who are the landowners. The landowners decided not to continue with permission to allow the event.

  • Replaced by: “Sure some of the core team set up Wynyard Woodlands as its replacement”

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photo by: Siân Siân

Tring

  • I completed this event on: November 22nd 2014 with a finish time of: 27:01

  • Region: East of England. County: Hertfordshire

  • This event was also part of Chilterns parkrun

  • Inaugural: November 1st 2014. Final Event: #293 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: The Woodland Trust, which manages Tring Park, withdrew permission for the event for reasons that both the Landowners, local community and parkrun UK rejected.

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page, blog7t write-up

  • Photo by: Ken Douglas, Roderick Hoffman, David McKillop, Claudia Selina

Victoria Dock

  • I completed this event on: April 28th 2018 with a finish time of: 24:23

  • Greater London Borough: Newham. Historic County: Essex

  • Inaugural: March 17th 2018. Final Event: #272 on December 20th 2025

  • Reason for cancellation: Per the Victoria Dock parkrun Facebook page: “Victoria Dock has always relied entirely on volunteers. Sadly, despite our best efforts, we’ve reached a point where we no longer have enough volunteers to continue the event sustainably. This has been the deciding factor in our decision to close.”

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page, blog7t write-up

  • Photos By: Victoria Dock parkrun Facebook Page, Richard Gower

Wolford Wood

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Warwickshire

  • Inaugural: February 11th 2023. Final event: #60 on November 16th 2024

  • Reason for cancellation: Wolford Wood was a SSSI and badly affected by the weather so couldn’t run for much of the time and the landowners decided to end their support.

  • Replaced by: Fire Service College. Wolford Wool was started when Fire Service College became unavailable so was technically a replacement event itself.

  • Links: Event Home Page

  • Photos by: Jane Bell, Cheryl Currant, Mike Lewis, Paul Miles, Rhiannon Williams

Wythall

  • I did not complete this event before it was closed

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Worcestershire

  • Inaugural: September 16th 2017. Final event: #1 on September 16th 2017

  • Reason for cancellation: “Wythall Park Community Association have voted against allowing parkrun to continue at their venue, as it "would suffer disproportionate damage".”

  • Links: Event Home Page

Yeovil Montacute

  • I completed this event on: September 15th 2018 with a finish time of: 25:41

  • Region: South West England. County: Somerset

  • Inaugural: September 7th 2013. Final Event: #295 on March 14th 2020

  • Reason for cancellation: Per the core team: “as the core team put it "Unfortunately we are a victim of our own success - the increasing numbers of people attending prior to the pandemic were having an increasing impact on the Trust’s ability to care for the Grade I listed parkland"

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

  • Photos by: Gail Benghiat, Kelly Croft, Yvonne Faulkner-Grant, Roderick Hoffman, Sue Freegard, Richard Gower

Permanently Cancelled junior parkrun events

Barking and Dagenham juniors

Bold Forest juniors

  • Region: North West England. County: Merseyside

  • Inaugural: 13 August 2017. Final event: #119 on 15 March 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Brentwood juniors

Brighouse juniors

Castle Park juniors

  • Region: North West England. County: Cheshire

  • Notes: This event closed before starting. There were no actual events held for the public.

Craigswood juniors

  • Region: Scotland. County: Lothian

  • Inaugural: 03 March 2019. Final event: #54 on 15 March 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Daventry juniors

Dixton juniors

Dover juniors

Lakes juniors

Llanelli Coast juniors

Melton Mowbray juniors

Northwich juniors

  • Region: North West England. County: Cheshire

  • Inaugural: 27 March 2016. Final event: #191 on 15 March 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Nostell juniors

Park Wood juniors

Peel Park juniors

  • Region: North West England. County: Greater Manchester

  • Inaugural: 12 May 2019. Final event: #39 on 15 March 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Poole juniors

Reculver juniors

Shelley juniors

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: West Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: 10 June 2018. Final event: #151 on 15 October 2023

  • Links: Event Home Page

Strathmartine juniors

West Smethwick juniors

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Staffordshire

  • Inaugural: 15 March 2020. Final event: #1 on 15 March 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Whiteley juniors

Permanently Cancelled parkruns on closed facilities

Altcourse

  • Historic County: Lancashire. Ceremonial County: Merseyside

  • Inaugural: November 16th 2019. Final event: #15 on March 14th 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Bear Brook

Camp Bastion

Cromhall

East Sutton Park

Elmley

Fort Road

Freckleton Road

  • Region: North West England. County: Lancashire

  • Inaugural: November 26th 2022. Final event: #71 on November 9th 2024

  • Links: Event Home Page

Grove

Hollesley Bay

  • Region: East of England. County: Suffolk

  • Inaugural: June 29th 2019. Final event: #36 on June 25th 2022

  • Links: Event Home Page

Onley

Peregrine

Portrack

  • Region: North East England. County: County Durham

  • Inaugural: August 20th 2022. Final event: #104 on December 28th 2024

  • Links: Event Home Page

Prescoed

  • Region: Wales. County: Monmouthshire / Gwent

  • Inaugural: November 13th 2021. Final event: #11 on March 26th 2022

  • Links: Event Home Page

Sands Lane

  • Region: Yorkshire and the Humber. County: East Riding of Yorkshire

  • Inaugural: February 22nd 2020. Final event: #50 on July 15th 2023

  • Links: Event Home Page

Swinfen

  • Region: West Midlands. County: Staffordshire

  • Inaugural: May 11th 2019. Final event: #48 on March 14th 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Wayland

  • Region: East of England. County: Norfolk

  • Inaugural: April 14th 2018. Final event: #93 on March 14th 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page

Contributors

The great people of the parkrun Tourism community who provided input to this page. Photo credits are listed above in the relevant event section.

Tan Ratty Blot, Richard Borrowdale, Kevin Botto, Catherine Brook, Liz, Burkey, Shane Chapman, Jason V. Clift-Jones, Joanne Collins, Cheryl Currant, Ken Douglas, Nicola Douglas, John Flannery, Nicola Francis, Martin Gebbett, Linda Harley Gillespie, Roderick Hoffman, Neil Holloway, Olly Hughes, Matt Johnson, Chris Lillywhite, Anton Mirafsari, Anna McManus, Finbarr Morley, Rob Ogelsby, Charlie Pearce, Ian Penson, Jonathan Webb, Becky Weaver-Clarke, Jocasta Williams, Yvonne

https://www.richardgower.com/blog/parkrun

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

Richard gowerRun, parkrun, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland Comments
All The Elizabeth Line Stations
 

My first journey on the Elizabeth Line was in October 2022 on my first trip into London after the Covid Lockdown. I was excited both to be back in the capital and also on the Elizabeth Line having followed progress on its construction. Timea took a photo of me with the purple roundel at Farringdon Station to mark the occasion. A few weeks later we made a Christmas trip into the the West End and took similar photos of me at Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street stations. That was what trigged my compulsive need to tick off everything in a series that can be made into an adventure.

Over the next couple of years I ticked off several more stations during other trips to London. Naturally I had to make some rules to guide the collection. I had to have a photo of me on the platform with the Elizabeth Line Roundel behind me. I also had to be getting on or off an Elizabeth Line train to get there. By 2025 I had about half of the stations and decided that this would be the year that I would complete the set. What followed was a series of cycle rides, often with my friend Brian, to tick off the stations that I wouldn’t get to on other trips. The grand finale was December 2025 with the 3 stations at Heathrow Airport.

Along the way I learnt that not all stations have roundels, just those managed by Transport for London (TFL). The completer-finisher in me still had to visit the other stations. I can’t imagine anyone else feeling the need to do the same but, just in case, here’s what you can look forward to…

If the station is managed by Transport for London (TFL), it will have an Elizabeth line roundel on the station. Stations to note are:

  • Reading, Twyford and Maidenhead are managed by Great Western Railway and don’t have Elizabeth Line roundels.

  • The three Heathrow Airport stations are all managed by Heathrow Express. They serve the Elizabeth Line but don’t have roundels.

  • Paddington Station is managed by Network Rail, Although the Elizabeth Line station is separate to the main station and does have an Elizabeth Line roundel. Some Elizabeth Line services to and from the west terminate in the main Paddington station where there is not an Elizabeth Line roundel.

  • Stratford Station is managed by TFL but does not have an Elizabeth Line roundel on the platform although it does have one above the station entrance.

  • Shenfield Station is managed by Greater Anglia and does not have an Elizabeth Line roundel on the platform although it does have one above the station entrance.

The Western Section: Reading To Acton Mainline

Scroll down to the the stations not managed by TFL section for photos of Reading, Twyford and Maidenhead.

The Heathrow Stations

All are managed by Heathrow Express. There are no Elizabeth Line roundels on the platform.

The Central Section: Paddington to Whitechapel

The North Eastern Section: Stratford to Shenfield

No Elizabeth Line roundel on the Stratford Station platform.

The South Eastern Section: Canary Wharf to Abbey Wood

The stations not managed by TFL

No Elizabeth Line roundels here.

Richard gowerRailway, Underground, London, Berkshire, Essex, England Comment
Walking The Hertfordshire Way through the Chilterns

Near Flamstead

The Hertfordshire Way offers an incredible opportunity to circumnavigate one of England's home counties, revealing its hidden charms and surprising variety. This circular long-distance footpath, stretching around 273 km (170 miles), guides walkers through the county's most picturesque landscapes, proving that green spaces are never far, even in this area close to London.

Beyond the stunning rural vistas, the Hertfordshire Way is a journey through history and charming local life. The route intentionally keeps mostly to the quiet countryside but thoughtfully incorporates visits to a handful of attractive, historic villages and two major centres: the county town of Hertford and the ancient city of St Albans, with its stunning cathedral and Roman heritage. Along the path, you'll encounter a mix of landscapes, from the fringes of the Chiltern Hills near Tring, to the wide views around Royston, and the peaceful valleys further east.

We walked the Chilterns part of the Hertfordshire Way in 15 sections over a couple of years. We used my “Greater Chilterns” definition that takes the trail from the River Lea near Wheathampstead to the River Colne near Garston. The part of the trail that runs through the Chiltern Hills National Landscape (formerly “AONB”) is much shorter and runs from Markyate to Berkhamsted.

Point to Point: Walking the Hertfordshire Way in the Chilterns

Start: River Lea crossing near Wheathampshead, AL4 8NJ
Finish: River Colne crossing near Garston, WD25 9AW
Distance: 81.5 km (51 miles)
Elevation change: + 874m / - 893m. Net -19m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Maps:
- St Albans & Hatfield Map | Hemel Hempstead & Welwyn Garden City | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 182
- Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
See individual section posts linked below for other links.

Walking the Hertfordshire Way in the Chilterns in 15 walks

If you’re not up for a 82 km walk in one go, you can take in the Hertfordshire Way in the Surrey Hills in 15 walks of between 8 and 14 km each. We chose this option, completing all 15 sections over 4 years from 2021 to 2025. The advantage of this option is exploring more of the villages and side paths close to the route.

As the complete Hertfordshire Way is a circular route you can walk it in either direction. The roundels on the route show whether you’re heading clockwise or anti-clockwise on either side of the footpath posts. For our short walks linked below we did a mix of clockwise and anti-clockwise and I’ve indicated the direction in the list below. If want to complete them in a consistent direction you’ll need to reverse the route for some of them.

Each number refers to a circular walk below. Base map: Esri Topo via RideWithGPS

Section 1: Coleman Green and Wheathampstead

  • Start & Finish: East Lane Car Park, 13 East Lane, Wheathampstead, St Albans, AL4 8SB

  • Distance: 9.1 km (5.7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 99m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Hammonds House Farm to the River Lea: 4.15 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 2: Sandridge and Heartwood Forest

  • Start & Finish: Nomansland Parking, Ferrers Lane, St Albans, AL4 8EG

  • Distance: 12.3 km (7.7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 106m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Chilwickbury to Hammonds House Farm: 5.5 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 3: St Albans and Childwickbury

  • Start & Finish: Verulamium Car Park, 39 St Michael's Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW. Alternative parking and public transport options in St Albans

  • Distance: 14.3 km (8.9 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 122m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Redbournbury to Childwickbury: 10.6 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 4: Redbourn and Redbournbury

  • Start & Finish: Free car park on West Common, Redbourn, St Albans, AL3 7ND

  • Distance: 9 km (6 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 74m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Redbourn to Redbournbury: 4 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 5: Flamstead and Redbourn

  • Start & Finish: Free car park on West Common, Redbourn, St Albans, AL3 7ND

  • Distance: 11.4 km (7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 98m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Flamstead to Redbourn: 4.2 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 6: Flamstead and Markyate

  • Start & Finish: Flamstead Recreation Ground, St Albans, AL3 8BS

  • Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 135m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Babies Wood to Flamstead: 4.3 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 7: Great Gaddesden and Gaddesdon Row

  • Start & Finish: Hemel Hempstead Garden Centre, Piper's Hill, Great Gaddesden, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3BY

  • Distance: 9.1 km (5.7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 116m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Great Gaddesden to Babies Wood: 4 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 8: Great Gaddesden and Ashridge

  • Start & Finish: Hemel Hempstead Garden Centre, Piper's Hill, Great Gaddesden, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3BY

  • Distance: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 153m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Great Gaddesden to the Ashridge Estate: 4 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 9: (Ashridge Boundary Trail Route 2) Ashridge Golf Club and Moneybury Hill

  • Start & Finish: Ashridge National Trust Car Park, Aldbury, Berkhamsted, HP4 1LU

  • Distance: 8.2 km (5.1 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 94m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Pitstone Common to east of Ashridge House: 4.9 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

Section 10: Aldbury & Ashridge

  • Start & Finish: Tring Station, Tring, HP23 5QR

  • Distance: 7.8 km (4.8 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 138m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Pitstone Common to Tom’s Hill: 6.15 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Both



Section 11: Cow Roast and Berkhamsted Common

  • Start & Finish: Free parking by the Cow Roast Recreation Ground, Tring, HP23 5RE

  • Distance: 11.9 km (7.3 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 140m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Tom’s Hill to Berkhamsted Common: 3 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

Section 12: Berkhamsted Castle and Common

  • Start & Finish: Berkhamsted Station, HP4 2AJ

  • Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 119m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Berkhamsted Common to Berkhamsted Castle: 4 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

Section 13: Berkhamsted and Bourne End

  • Start & Finish: Berkhamsted Station, Station Approach, Berkhamsted, HP4 2AR

  • Distance: 11.9 km (7.3 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 144m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Berkhamsted to Bushfield Road: 5.8 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

Section 14: Boxmoor to Kings Langley

  • Start: Hemel Hempstead Station, London Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9BQ

  • Finish: Kings Langley Station, Station Road, Kings Langley WD4 8LF

  • Distance: 12.8 km (7.9 miles)

  • Elevation change: +154m / - 175m. Net -21m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: Bovingdon to Kings Langley: 10 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

Section 15: Kings Langley to Aldenham

  • Start: King’s Langley Station, Station Road, Kings Langley, WD4 8LF

  • Finish: St. John The Baptist Church, Church Lane, Radlett, Watford, WD25 8BE

  • Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +126m / -119m. Net +7m

  • Hertfordshire Way section covered: King’s Langley to Aldenham: 10.4 km

  • Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

Back to Chiltern Walks Index
Richard gowerTrek, National Trust, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
Completing all Warwickshire parkruns

There are currently 6 parkrun events in present-day Warwickshire of which I have not yet completed any. There are a further 6 parkrun events in the part of the Historic County of Warwickshire which are now in the present-day Ceremonial County of West Midlands.

The first event in Historic Warwickshire was Coventry which started on February 6th 2010. The newest is Holbrooks which started on August 5th 2023. I’m not aware of a collective name for having completed all Warwickshire parkrun events, but let me know in the comments below if you know of one.

Wolford Wood (now permanently cancelled) is sometimes listed in the South West England Region. The actual course was in Warwickshire but it had a Morton-in-Marsh postal address which is in Gloucestershire.

Aston Hall, Dallas Burston Polo Club and Woolford Wood were parkrun events in Warwickshire that have been permanently cancelled.

Numbers exclude any events that are not open to the general public such as prisons or armed forces facilities.

a map of all of the parkrun events in Warwickshire

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Aston Hall

  • This parkrun event has been permanently cancelled. I did not complete this event before it was closed.

  • Historic County: Warwickshire. Ceremonial County: West Midlands

  • Inaugural: October 14th 2023. Final event: #34 on August 24th 2024

  • Reason for cancellation: Lack of volunteers ?? Comment below if you have better information on this

  • Links: Event Home Page

 

Babbs Mill

 

Bedworth

 

Brueton

 

Coventry

 

Dallas Burston Polo Club

  • This parkrun event has been permanently cancelled. I did not complete this event before it was closed.

  • Historic County: Warwickshire. Ceremonial County: Warwickshire

  • Inaugural: October 16th 2021. Final event: #83 on November 25th 2023

  • Reason for cancellation: Due to ongoing land improvements and development at the estate, which made the parkrun route unusable and unsustainable.

  • Links: Event Home Page

 

Edgbaston Reservoir

 

Holbrooks

 

Kingsbury Water

 

Leamington

 

 Rugby

 

Stratford-upon-Avon

 

Sutton Park

 

Warwick Racecourse

 

Wolford Wood

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

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Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Warwickshire, EnglandComment