Posts tagged England

Cycling The NCN 2 from Brighton to Southampton

Early morning crossing on the Portsmouth to Gosport Ferry

It had been a few months since our last cycling trip back in early January, so Brian and I were definitely overdue a catch-up and another stretch of the south coast. The plan this time was to tackle a segment of National Cycle Route 2 (NCN2). We originally aimed to ride from Brighton to Bournemouth, but we ended up tweaking our plans to finish in Southampton instead. Here is how the weekend unfolded.

We set off on Friday afternoon. After finishing work, we met up at Slough station to catch the Elizabeth line into London. We were aiming for the Thameslink from Farringdon down to Brighton, but we hit a familiar snag: you can't take non-folding bikes on the train during the Friday evening rush hour.

Rather than stressing about it, we used the time to grab dinner in Farringdon. We eventually boarded the 19:00 train and arrived in Brighton around 20:00. By the time we pushed the bikes to the Premier Inn, it was already dark. We parked them securely in our room and wandered into the centre of Brighton for a couple of drinks to properly catch up.

Day 1: Brighton to Southsea

Start: Brighton Palace Pier, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1TW
Finish: Clarence Pier, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3AA
Distance: 95 km (59 miles)
Elevation change: + 316m / -321m (Net -5m)
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): King Charles III England Coast Path, Monarch’s Way, New Lipchis Way, The Selsey Tramway, Centurion Way, Sussex Border Path, The Shipwrights Way, Wayfarers Walk, Solent Way, Langstone Habrobour Waterside Route,
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 2, 222, 288
Pubs / Cafes on route: Loads but we stopped for lunch at Soul Kitchen & Bar, Littlehampton (35 km in)
Maps:
- Brighton & Hove Map | Lewes & Burgess Hill | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL11
- Arundel & Pulborough Map | Worthing & Bognor Regis | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL10
- Chichester Map | South Harting & Selsey | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL08
- Meon Valley Map | Portsmouth, Gosport & Fareham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL3
Links: Brighton, Hove, Shoreham-by-Sea, Worthing, Ferring, Angmering, Littlehampton, Felpham, Bognor Regis, Aldwick, North Mundham, Chichester, Warblington, Havant, Hayling Island, Eastney, Southsea

I've been cutting down on alcohol this year, so those couple of glasses of wine on Friday night had an unfortunate consequence: I snored loudly all night. Brian barely got a wink of sleep.

Because of that, our Saturday morning started separately. I headed out early for the Hove Promenade parkrun. Usually, Brian would tag along and chill in a cafe, but he desperately needed to catch up on sleep. We met up at 09:30 after my run. I was in serious need of coffee and food by then, so we stopped at a lovely little independent bakery and cafe in Hove called MAKA for a sausage roll and a coffee while looking out to the sea.

We finally hit the road around 10:00, heading west on NCN2. We quickly spotted our first Millennium Milepost just past a bench in Hove. We were looking out for them as they were a major feature of our previous south coast trips, but they were pretty sparse this time: we saw two close together in Hove, and only one more just outside Chichester.

The morning ride stuck closely to the seafront. We actually cycled along the routes of several south coast parkruns, passing through Shoreham-on-Sea, Lancing, Worthing, and Goring-on-Sea. The route dips inland at Ferring to bypass a coastal path you can't cycle on, goes through Angmering, briefly touches the coast at Littlehampton, and then heads inland again before reaching Bognor Regis. We had planned an ice cream stop there, but despite the warm sunshine, the wind coming off the sea was incredibly strong, so we just pressed on.

Just after Bognor Regis, between Aldwick and Nyetimber, the official NCN2 signs simply vanished. We ended up following a path that seemed to be either a future or decommissioned section of the route. Despite this, the section actually turned out to be a real highlight of the day. It took us off the hard pavements and guided us cross-country through some beautiful fields, farmland, and dirt tracks.

The NCN2 signs finally picked up again at South Mundham. From there, we headed north into Chichester and stopped for a well-deserved coffee and cake to make up for the missed ice cream. Our original plan was to stay overnight in Chichester, but when I was booking, the hotels were completely full due to an event in town that weekend.

Suitably refreshed, we pushed west along the road bordering the top of Chichester Harbour, a National Landscape that I previously visited a couple of years back while hunting for its very low High Point.

Approaching Havant, we picked up the pace. We were pretty tired, but I knew we had to catch the 17:40 Hayling Ferry to Eastney Point, or we'd be stuck waiting an hour for the next one. I managed to roll up to the jetty with about 30 seconds to spare.

I got on board and anxiously told the ferry staff my friend was right behind me. Turns out he wasn't. The boat was full, the crew were eager to leave, and I was torn between getting off to wait at the pub for an hour or holding the boat up. Just as I reached the point where I couldn't make them wait any longer and was about to step off, Brian came pedalling down the jetty. He was five minutes late but just in time. The crossing only took five minutes, but catching it gave us an extra hour for dinner and an early night.

From Eastney Point, it was a short 20-minute ride to our hotel, the Southsea Premier Inn. After checking in and showering, we were absolutely starving. We decided to walk northwest along the seafront into Old Portsmouth and found a nearby pub called The Dolphin. We enjoyed fish and chips and a much more modest amount of wine before finally getting some proper sleep.

Day 2: Southsea to Southampton

Start: Clarence Pier, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3AA
Finish: Central Station Bridge, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton SO15 1AL, United Kingdom
Distance: 36 km (22 miles) … plus an additional 12km for the Warsash Ferry diversion (see text below).
Elevation change: + 190m / -188m (Net -2m)
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): King Charles III England Coast Path, The Shipwrights Way, Solent Way, Strawberry Trail, Hamble Rail Trail Route
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 2, 22, 23, 236
Pubs / Cafes on route: Several options but we had breakfast in Jenny’s Cafe, Hamble-le-Rice (24 km in)
Maps:
- Meon Valley Map | Portsmouth, Gosport & Fareham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL3
- New Forest Map | Southampton, Ringwood, Ferndown, Lymington, Christchurch & Bournemouth | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL22
Links: Southsea, Portsmouth, Gosport, Lee-on-the-Solent, Warsash, Hamble-le-Rice, Netley, Southampton

Thankfully, I didn't snore quite as much, and we both woke up well-rested around 06:00. We left the hotel at 07:15 for a 15-minute cycle over to Portsmouth Harbour. The Gosport Ferry runs every 15 minutes, so we barely had to wait at all. The crossing was really nice, with the morning sun coming up and illuminating the Spinnaker Tower and the Historic Dockyard.

The cycle through Gosport was a lovely stretch, passing through quiet little villages with great views of the Isle of Wight to our left. Feeling pretty good, we debated pushing on to our original goal of Bournemouth (which is about 55 km past Southampton). However, our second ferry drama of the weekend ended up making the decision for us.

We arrived at the jetty for the Pink Ferry at Warsash (which crosses the River Hamble to Hamble-le-Rice) at 09:00. I had completely forgotten to check the times, and unfortunately, a sign informed us the Sunday service didn't start until 10:00. We were an hour too early. We had flashbacks of our West Coast Ireland trip a few years back when we made an early start to catch a ferry that turned out to start much later on a Sunday.

Waiting a whole hour would have seriously thrown off our timings for getting home for a rest in the hot tub. The alternative was to avoid the ferry with a 20-minute detour north to Lower Swanwick, crossing the bridge to Bursledon, and cycling down the other side. Brian decided his legs just couldn't take the extra cycling, so we made the call: Southampton would be our final destination.

Rather than taking the direct road to Southampton station, we decided to cycle back down south to Hamble-le-Rice on the opposite side of the ferry crossing. Since we were stopping in Southampton, we weren't pressed for time, and it meant we could still continue our journey along NCN2 as originally planned.

This actually turned out to be a fantastic decision. Hamble-le-Rice is a gorgeous, quaint little village. We were starving by this point, having cycled for nearly three hours, so we stopped at a really nice cafe called Jenny's. We stayed for an hour, taking it easy and chatting over a massive, much-needed breakfast.

The final leg into Southampton was packed with interesting history. Just outside Hamble-le-Rice, the cycle route joins the Hamble Rail Trail. This is a disused railway track originally built during the First World War to serve an aircraft factory, and later used to transport oil from the BP terminal.

We followed the route through some lovely parkland, passing right through the grounds of Netley Abbey and the Royal Victoria Country Park: the site of the historic Royal Victoria Military Hospital, which also had its own dedicated railway line.

We followed the waterfront up to Woolston, crossed over the big Itchen Bridge, and navigated the city streets until we reached Southampton Central station at midday. From there, we bought our tickets and caught the train home via Reading, ready for a well-earned soak in the hot tub before the week ahead.

The Full 2-Day Route

A 2-day cycle trip along the NCN2 from Brighton to Southampton — Day 1 in red, day 2 in blue

The Millennium Mileposts

Dotting the UK's National Cycle Network are over 1,000 unique markers known as the Millennium Mileposts. Unveiled in 2000, these cast-iron sculptures are more than just waymarkers. Designed by four artists, one from each nation of the UK, they celebrate the diversity of the cycling routes. These artistic mileposts come in various shapes and can be found in both bustling towns and scenic landscapes, adding a touch of artistic charm to a cycling adventure.

Here’s the 3 Mileposts that I spotted on day 1 of the trip. There were none on day 2.

Hove, King's Esplanade

Portslade-by-Sea, Wharf Road (near watersports lake), Brighton And Hove

MP167 - Fishbourne, Emperor Way

Previous South Coast Cycle trip: Dover to Hastings
Next South Coast Cycle trip: Southampton to Weymouth (coming soon)

Back to Cycle Index

Richard gower19 April 2026Cycle, NCN, Coast, Disused Railway, National Trails, Canal, Sussex, EnglandComment

Walking The Midshires Way Part 9: Verney Junction and Winslow

Rapeseed field between East Claydon and Verney Junction

Start & Finish: St Mary's Church, Church Way, East Claydon, Buckingham, MK18 2ND
Distance: 12.7 km (7.9 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 97m
Terrain: Mixed terrain including field paths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes.
Midshires Way section covered: East Claydon to Addington: 4.7 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, Cross Bucks Way, Bernwood Jubilee Way
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 51
Pubs / Cafes on route: None, although there are several in Winslow if you take a diversion from the main route at 7 km in.
Map: Buckingham & Milton Keynes Map | Leighton Buzzard & Woburn | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 192
Links: East Claydon, Verney Junction, Winslow, Addington, East West Rail

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 delightful circular walk takes you through the serene Buckinghamshire countryside, starting at East Claydon. The highlight is the historic site of Verney Junction. From the remnants of this once bustling railway hub, the path guides you northwards across open farmland and peaceful meadows, offering wide views of the Buckinghamshire landscape. The route gently undulates as it loops towards the charming market town of Winslow, dropping from around 124 metres in elevation down to 83 metres, making it an excellent afternoon stroll or a scenic alternative to your weekend parkrun.

Upon reaching the western edges of Winslow, the trail turns back southwest, following well-trodden bridleways and field margins. The return leg provides a contrasting perspective of the countryside, with quiet copses and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife. It is a manageable route with varied terrain, though sensible footwear is recommended during wetter months when the field paths can become muddy.

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 near St Mary’s Church where there’s several spots of free on-street parking on Church Way.
Walk along Church Way in a westerly direction, onto Sandmill Road, then take a right onto the footpath at the junction with Lacemakers Close.
Follow the path through fields for 1.6 km to Verney Road then take a left to follow Verney Road to Verney Junction village.
Take a moment to explore the village that was formerly the site of Verney Junction Station. The former station building is now a private house and the old rail line has now been replaced by the new East West Rail line.
Continue along Verney Road past the village then take a right onto the bridge that takes you over the East West Rail line. After the bridge, follow the path round to the right until you reach the track that previously crossed the disused rail line to the village.
Take a right at this track to follow the path in a north-easterly direction.
When you reach St Mary The Virgin Church in Addington follow the road as it curves round to the east. This is the furthest point on the Midshires Way for this section. You’ll now be following the Cross Bucks Way into Winslow.
You’ll reach a T junction where you’ll take a right then take a left to leave the road and follow a path through a field in an east / south-easterly direction.
Follow the path as it crosses under the East West Line then runs parallel to the rail line to reach Furze Lane on the western edge of Winslow.
Follow Gibbs Close, Featherbed Close, Selby Lane, Verney Road and Langley Close through Winslow until you reach a footpath near some stables on the southern edge of Winslow. Take a right onto this path to head east.
Follow this path through fields, initially in a westerly direction then curving to the south to reach East Claydon Road.
Take a right onto East Claydon Road and follow it for 600m to the East Claydon Substation. Be careful on this road as there’s no pavement but there is a grass verge to avoid cars.
Take a left onto the footpath that starts on the service road at the western end of the substation.
Follow the path as it zig-zags across fields to rejoin the Midshires Way then continue back to St Mary’s Church in East Claydon.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

East Claydon: An historic Buckinghamshire village with clear Anglo‑Saxon origins, its name deriving from the Old English clægig dun, meaning “clay hill.” At its heart stands the parish church of St Mary, a building that today reflects several centuries of architectural development. Although the church was largely destroyed during the English Civil War by Parliamentarian official Cornelius Holland, it was rebuilt after the Restoration and now incorporates elements from the 13th to 16th centuries, including a 14th‑century chancel. The village provides a peaceful and culturally rich backdrop as you explore the surrounding countryside.
Claydon House and Estate: Just a stone's throw from East Claydon lies the magnificent Claydon House, a National Trust property renowned for its extraordinary 18th-century rococo interiors. For generations, it has been the ancestral home of the Verney family—the namesakes of Verney Junction. The house also boasts a deep connection to Florence Nightingale, who was a frequent visitor and had her own bedroom there, as her sister Parthenope was married to Sir Harry Verney.
Verney Junction: Once a significant interchange on the Oxford–Cambridge Varsity Line, Verney Junction played an important role in the region’s Victorian railway network. Passenger services ceased in 1968 with the closure of the line, but the site remains a notable landmark for railway historians and enthusiasts, offering a quiet reminder of the area’s transport heritage.
The Varsity Line Landscape: Much of the landscape you will encounter has been shaped by the former Varsity Line, the rail route that once linked Britain’s two great university cities. Though the line closed in the late 1960s, major efforts are now underway to revive parts of this historic corridor through the East West Rail project, which aims to restore modern rail services across sections of the original route.
Addington: Set within the Buckinghamshire countryside, Addington is a secluded village with deep historical roots, recorded in the Domesday Book as Edintone. Its parish church, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, reflects a long architectural history with Norman origins. During the English Civil War, the original manor house served twice as the national headquarters for Parliamentarian forces, giving the village an important—if brief—strategic role. Today, Addington is characterised by the extensive Addington Manor estate, whose mid‑19th‑century parkland was laid out with input from the noted landscape designer William Andrews Nesfield.
Winslow: Winslow is a historic market town known for its traditional architecture and lively high street. Its most prominent landmark is Winslow Hall, a grand mansion built in 1700. The house is traditionally attributed to Sir Christopher Wren, although the attribution remains a matter of scholarly debate. Regardless of authorship, the building stands as one of the finest examples of late 17th‑century domestic architecture in the region.

Midshires Way previous section (south): Quainton and Botolph Claydon
Midshires Way next section (north): Addington and Great Horwood (Coming Soon)

Back to Trek Index

Richard gower11 April 2026Trek, Buckinghamshire, England, Disused RailwayComment

Completing All Leicestershire parkruns

There are currently 13 parkrun events in the present-day county of Leicestershire of which I have not yet completed any. The first was Braunstone, which started on 25th September 2010, and the newest is Sence Valley Forest Park, which started on 23rd September 2023. The name for having completed all parkrun events in the county is “Flaw-Leics”.

The location of the Market Harborough event was in the historic county of Northamptonshire but is now in present-day Leicestershire.

Numbers exclude 2k Junior parkruns and any events that are not open to the general public such as prisons or armed forces facilities.

All of the Leicestershire parkrun events …

Below are each of the Leicestershire 5k parkrun events in alphabetical order. A few things to note:

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 and elevation profiles show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then. See the Course page in the event’s page on parkrun.org.uk for the current course outline. Note that course outlines are from Garmin data during a specific run and may vary from the officially measured distance.
Please contact me if you spot an event that doesn’t have a course map and elevation profile and you would like to donate one from your own run. I’m also interested in maps and elevation profiles for courses that have changed or where there’s regular alternative route (e.g. Horsham). I’ll need a GPX file from your run plus the date. I’ll include a credit for you and will donate £1 to parkrun.

Abbey Park

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 15th April 2023
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Beacon Hill Country Park

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 25th February 2023
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Belvoir Castle

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 15th January 2022
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Braunstone

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 25th September 2010
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Conkers

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 16th April 2011
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Dishley, Loughborough

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 28th July 2018
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Hastings High School

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 26th March 2022
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Leicester Victoria

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 14th November 2015
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Market Bosworth Country Park

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: December 17th 2022
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Market Harborough

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: April 25th 2015
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Melton Mowbray

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 10th January 2015
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Sence Valley Forest Park

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 23rd September 2023
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Watermead Country Park

I have not yet completed this event
Inaugural: 25th September 2021
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Walking Directions

This section of the Midshires Way offers a fantastic circular route through the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside. Starting in the village of Quainton, the path almost immediately asks you to conquer Quainton Hill, where the elevation climbs from 98 metres to over 180 metres. It is a steady ascent that rewards walkers with sweeping views of the surrounding area before the path levels out and begins a gentle descent.

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.

Begin your walk at the village green in Quainton outside the George and Dragon Pub.
Follow The Green in a north-easterly direction then take a right onto Church Street then take the footpath on the left to ascend Quainton Hill.
The Midshires Way ascends along the side of the hill where Quainton Beacon stands. It’s well worth taking a small diversion to the Beacon for the views to the south over Quainton Village and across the Vale to the Waddesdon Estate.
As you continue to climb Quainton hill in a north / north-easterly direction you’ll see the large transmitter mast and reservoir on your right. If you want to bag the OS Trig Pillar you can divert off the Midshires along a farm track to the reservoir. The Trig Pillar is on top of the reservoir and surrounded by a high fence so you can get within a few metres of it but not touch it. Follow the footpath that runs alongside the western edge of the reservoir until you rejoin the Midshires Way.
Once you pass the summit of Conduit Hill (just north of Quainton Hill) descend in a north-easterly direction following the Midshires Way. Note that this splits here from the Outer Aylesbury Ring which follows the more obvious route of the treeline. The Midshires Way is not obvious here so you’ll either need a GPX file or good compass skills to keep on track.
When you reach Hogshaw Road take a left to follow it for 400m then take a right to follow the footpath through fields in a north-westerly direction to Church Way in East Claydon.
Take a left off Church Way towards the entrance of St Mary’s Church. Follow the footpath in a south-westerly direction to join St Mary’s Road.
Follow St Mary’s Road in southerly direction, joining Botyl Road as it passes through Botolph Claydon. Cross over the junction with Orchard Way onto Weir Lane and continue walking in a southerly direction.
When you reach the farm buildings at the end of Weir Lane continue south across farmland and across the old Bernwood Farm Airstrip (now not visible)
When you reach the back of Hogshaw Farm and Wildlife Park you can either continue on the path through to Claydon Road or take a small diversion into the farm to reach the cafe. This is the only place to get food and drink on the route until you are back at Quainton.
Cross over Claydon Road and follow the driveway towards Hill Cottage Farm, taking the footpath on the right before the farm buildings.
Continue to follow the footpath through fields until you reach Upper Street in Quainton. Take a left onto Upper Street and follow it back to the start at The Green.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

Quainton’s Village Heritage The walk begins and ends in the picturesque village of Quainton, dominated by the magnificent Quainton Windmill. Built in 1830, this towering six-storey working mill remains the tallest in Buckinghamshire and stands as a stunning monument to 19th-century agricultural engineering. Just below the turning sails sits The George & Dragon, a historic free house on the village green dating back to 1777, offering a quintessential village pub experience. As you ascend out of the village, you pass the Quainton Beacon atop Mill Hill—a ceremonial site recently lit for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, which offers elevated, sweeping views over the Waddesdon Estate.
East Claydon: This historic Buckinghamshire village has Anglo Saxon origins, with its name deriving from the Old English term for a clay hill. The settlement is home to the parish church of St Mary, which features a 14th century chancel and was partially rebuilt following the English Civil War. It provides a picturesque and culturally rich backdrop as you navigate the local countryside.
Botolph Claydon: A historic Buckinghamshire village that is home to a community-run bar. It would be a perfect mid-walk rest stop if it opened during the day. At time of writing the bar only opens in the evenings.
Conservation and Countryside The return leg of the journey crosses a diverse blend of agricultural land and dedicated conservation areas. The route crosses the old unpaved Bernwood Farm Airstrip, a subtle nod to local civil aviation that has been active since the 2000s. Just beyond lies Hogshaw Farm and Wildlife Park, set within 44 acres of open countryside. Dedicated to protecting rare breeds and local natural habitats, this environmentally conscious farm is a haven for European wildlife and a perfect refreshment stop for walkers exploring the local nature trails.

Midshires Way previous section (south): Waddesdon and Quainton Road
Midshires Way next section (north): Verney Junction and Winslow

Back to Trek Index

Richard gower4 April 2026Trek, Trig Pillar, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment

London Outdoors

Welcome to London Outdoors. London might be a busy city, but it is also packed with incredible green spaces and trails. This page is a collection of my outdoor adventures across the capital: whether I am heading out for a long walk, exploring new cycling routes, or lacing up my trainers for a local parkrun. Have a look through the index below to find all my posts about getting outside in the city.

Comment below or contact me if you have any questions, suggestions for improvement or if you spot any errors in any of the posts. I’ll donate £ to one of the outdoor causes that i support for any correction made.

Featured and Popular Posts

This section brings together some of my most memorable urban explorations. It includes the fascinating history behind London's Coal Duty Posts and the challenge of navigating the historic City of London boundary.

You can also find my journeys tracing the Roman London Wall and my comprehensive treks around the London Loop and Capital Ring. These routes offer a fantastic mix of history and scenery: showcasing the diverse places that make the capital so unique.

Walking the City of London Boundary

Walking The Roman London Wall

London's Coal Duty Posts

London Borough Tri-Points

London's Protected Views

Walking in London

Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to uncover the hidden details of the capital. This section brings together a variety of walking routes across the city, from short urban strolls through central neighbourhoods to much longer trails connecting the outer boroughs.

It is not just about the distance covered, either: these walks also take in a wide variety of fascinating places. Whether your route passes by historic National Trust properties, takes in the Royal Parks or other green spaces, these posts will guide you through the diverse landmarks that make navigating the city so rewarding.

Scroll down for a separate section on walks along London’s Waterways.

Walking The London Loop and Capital Ring

Walking The Tamsin Trail in Richmond Park

Walking The Hillingdon Trail

Walking Trails in The Colne Valley

London High Points

For those who like a good view or a geographical challenge, this collection focuses on the highest spots across the city. From standing at the specific peaks of every London Borough to tracking down Greater London OS Trig Pillars, there is plenty of elevation to seek out.

Whether you are aiming for the Middlesex County Top at Bushey Heath or uncovering the City of London High Point at High Holborn, these posts will guide you to the summits hidden within the urban landscape.

London Borough High Points

Greater London OS Trig Pillars

Bushey Heath: Middlesex County Top

High Holborn: City of London High Point

London’s Rivers and Waterways

London is defined by its waterways, and walking their paths reveals a calmer side to the busy city. This section covers relaxing strolls along the River Wandle Trail and the River Brent Path, as well as tracing the fascinating historic route of the River Fleet.

If you prefer towpaths, you will also find my guides to navigating the Regent's Canal, the Limehouse Cut, and the Hertford Union Canal. These waterside routes are brilliant environments to explore at your own pace.

Walking The River Wandle Trail

Walking The River Fleet

Walking The Regent's Canal

Walking The Limehouse Cut and Hertford Union Canal

Walking The River Brent Path

Train and Tube

Public transport networks offer some surprising opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here you can read about tracking the Elizabeth Line stations above ground and the physical challenge of running the entire Circle Line.

It is not just about active lines, either: this section also explores historic transport routes transformed into nature trails, including the Parkland Walk near Alexandra Palace and the disused railway from Uxbridge to Denham.

Walking The Uxbridge To Denham Disused Railway

Alexandra Palace and The Parkland Walk

All The Elizabeth Line Stations

Running The Circle Line

London parkruns

Saturday mornings are often dedicated to parkrun, and this category is a dedicated hub for achieving the coveted 'LonDone' status. It details my experiences visiting events across Greater London and completing all the Middlesex courses.

For anyone else chasing the ultimate tourism goals, I have also included guides on transport connections and venturing into the extended challenges of LonDone + and LonDone ++.

Greater London parkruns (LonDone)

LonDone + and LonDone ++

LonDone Transport Connections

Middlesex parkruns

Cycling In London

Getting on the bike is one of the best ways to cover longer distances across the city's green spaces. These posts highlight dedicated cycling routes, including the vast orbital circuits of the London Loop and Capital Ring.

You can also follow my two-wheeled adventures along the River Crane and the River Ash: offering peaceful cycling alternatives away from the busy main roads.

Cycling The London Loop

Cycling London's Capital Ring

Cycling The River Crane & The Hounslow Baseline

Cycling The River Ash and Thames Path Circular

Cycling to and through London

For those looking to stretch their legs on longer rides, these routes connect the capital to the wider landscape. You will find journeys along the Grand Union Canal and the River Lea, offering straightforward navigation right into the heart of the city.

The collection also features epic rides tracking the Prime Meridian, following the historic Semaphore Line from Portsmouth, and riding out to the coast along the Thames Estuary to Margate.

Cycling The Grand Union Canal

Cycling The River Lea

Cycling The Prime Meridian

Cycling The Semaphore Line: Portsmouth to London

Cycling The Thames Estuary: Thames Barrier to Margate

Richard gower26 March 2026Run, parkrun, Cycle, NCN, Trek, UK County Tops, London Borough High Point, Trig Pillar, Coal Duty Post, Canal, Railway, Disused Railway, Thames, London, England Comments

Ales & Trails Ramsbury 10k

When: March 15th 2026
Where: Ramsbury Brewery & Distillery Ltd, Stockclose Farm, Marlborough SN8 2NN
Organiser: Racing Line Running
Distance: 10 km
Elevation: +/- 223m
Course: Start and finish by the Brewery. 7 km big loop of country lanes and farmland connected by a 1.5km out and back to the brewery.
Other routes touched: The Ridgeway
Finish time: 63 minutes, 08 seconds

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Richard gower16 March 2026Run, 10k, Wiltshire, EnglandComment

Walking The Midshires Way Part 7: Waddesdon and Quainton Road

Approaching the Waddesdon Estate from the north-west on the Brill Tramway Walk

*** Note that at the time of writing in March 2026, this route is not possible to complete due to the HS2 works running through the centre. Please check the status of the HS2 work before attempting this route. Scroll down to see our alternative route that avoids the works ***

Start & Finish: Waddesdon Manor Car Park, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JE
Distance: 11.9 km (7.4 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 96m
Terrain: A mixture of paved surfaces, grassy footpaths, and countryside tracks with rolling elevations.
Midshires Way section covered: Waddesdon to Quainton: 4.5 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, North Bucks Way, Aylesbury Ring, Windmill Hill at Waddesdon, Bernwood Jubilee Way, Brill Tramway Walk
Other routes touched (cycle): National Bridleway, Waddesdon Greenway
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Five Arrows, The Bow, The Lion, all near the start and finish at Waddesdon. The George & Dragon, Quainton (4.8 km in)
Maps:
- Chiltern Hills North Map | Aylesbury, Berkhamsted & Chesham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 181
- Buckingham & Milton Keynes Map | Leighton Buzzard & Woburn | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 192
Links: Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon National Trust, Waddesdon, Quainton, Quainton Road railway station

Walking Directions

This circular route offers a brilliant way to explore the Buckinghamshire countryside, taking you from the historic village of Waddesdon up towards Quainton and back. It is a lovely walk to enjoy on a weekend, whether you are looking for a relaxed hike or trying to build up your stamina for your local parkrun. The views across the Vale of Aylesbury are fantastic, making it a highly rewarding loop for walkers of all abilities.

The path itself is beautifully varied, combining well-trodden tracks with slightly more elevated sections that give you a great perspective of the surrounding landscape. You will wander past some iconic local spots and enjoy the fresh air without feeling like you are on a gruelling expedition. It is simply a great way to spend a few hours outdoors with friends or family.

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 main Waddesdon Manor car park and take the path through it in an easterly direction.
When you reach the junction with Midshires Way / Aylesbury Ring take a left and follow the Midshires Way / Aylesbury Ring. It will meander through the edge of the Waddesdon Estate, alongside the overflow car park and onto Goss Avenue. At the end of Goss Avenue turn left onto the A41.
Take a right onto Little Britain (road) and follow it as it leads onto a footpath between garden fences and out into open fields.
Continue walking north along the Midshires Way until you reach The Strand (road) at Quainton. Take a left onto The Strand. Here is a good place to stop for a mid-point rest at The George and Dragon pub.
Take a left off The Strand / Lower Road onto Station Road and follow it in a southerly direction for 3.1 km until you reach the A41. Along the way you'll pass the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre at the Old Quainton Road Station. After the station you'll be following the route of the old Brill Tramway.
Cross over the A41 and continue to follow the Brill Tramway Walk through fields and into the Waddesdon Manor Estate. Once into the estate take a right to follow the road back to the Visitor Centre and car park where you started.

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

Waddesdon Manor: Built between 1874 and 1889 for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, this striking French Renaissance-style château is a spectacular place to visit. Beyond its impressive architecture, the manicured grounds and meticulously designed parterre showcase Victorian horticultural excellence, occasionally hosting vibrant light festivals that illuminate the Buckinghamshire night.
Quainton Windmill: Dominating the picturesque village green, this towering six-storey working windmill was built in 1830 and remains the tallest in Buckinghamshire. Carefully restored by dedicated volunteers, it stands as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century milling practices.
Quainton Road Railway Station: Opened in 1899 and closed to passengers in 1936. A nostalgic stop that once served the far reaches of the Metropolitan Line, this historic station is now a beautifully preserved heritage site. It forms a central part of the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where the legacy of the old Brill Tramway and the golden age of steam travel are kept alive for modern enthusiasts.
The George & Dragon: Situated right on the village green in Quainton, this historic pub believed to date from 1777. It provides a quintessential village experience and a fantastic spot to grab a hearty bite to eat or a refreshing drink whilst enjoying uninterrupted views of the nearby windmill turning in the breeze.

Alternative Route to Avoid The HS2 Works

We attempted this route in March 2026 but had to replan it on the fly when we couldn't get much further north than Waddesdon. The HS2 line runs right through the middle of the route between Waddesdon and Quainton and there was no practical route through the construction works. Instead we followed Quainton Road from Waddesdon High Street until the junction of Station Road, then took a left to rejoin the original route following the Brill Tramway Walk towards the Waddesdon Estate. As the walk was slightly shorter than planned we spent some time exploring the Waddesdon Manor grounds. Allow an extra 3 km on top of the walk route distance to explore the Waddesdon grounds.

Start & Finish: Waddesdon Manor Car Park, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JE
Distance: 9.7 km (6 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 81m
Midshires Way section covered: Waddesdon Manor to Little Britain (road): 1.4 km

Midshires Way previous section (south): Waddesdon and Eythrope
Midshires Way next section (north): Quainton and Boltoph Clayton

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Richard gower14 March 2026Trek, Buckinghamshire, National Trust, Disused Railway, EnglandComment

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 or Cambridge Don(e).

Three events were in the Historic County of Huntingdonshire: Ferry Meadows, Huntingdon and Pocket. The name for having completed all parkrun events in Huntingdonshire is Huntingdone

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.

All of the Cambridgeshire parkrun events …

Below are each of the Cambridgeshire 5k parkrun events in alphabetical order. A few things to note:

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 and elevation profiles show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then. See the Course page in the event’s page on parkrun.org.uk for the current course outline. Note that course outlines are from Garmin data during a specific run and may vary from the officially measured distance.
Please contact me if you spot an event that doesn’t have a course map and elevation profile and you would like to donate one from your own run. I’m also interested in maps and elevation profiles for courses that have changed or where there’s regular alternative route (e.g. Horsham). I’ll need a GPX file from your run plus the date. I’ll include a credit for you and will donate £1 to parkrun.

Ben’s Yard, Ely

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 5th April 2025
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Brook Leys

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 6th September 2025
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Bug Hunter Waters

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 15th June 2024
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Coldham’s Common

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 29th September 2018
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Ferry Meadows

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Huntingdonshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 3rd August 2013
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Frank’s Farm

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 15th November 2025
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Fulbourn Hospital

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 7th December 2019
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Huntingdon

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Huntingdonshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 13th April 2013
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Littleport

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 23rd June 2018
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Manor Field, Whittlesey

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 8th September 2018
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

March

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 23rd January 2016
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Milton Country

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 30th January 2010
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Pocket

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Huntingdonshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 16th June 2018
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Soham Village College

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 23rd November 2019
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

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

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 12th January 2013
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

Wisbech

I have not yet completed this event
Historic County: Cambridgeshire. Ceremonial County: Cambridgeshire.
Inaugural: 19th August 2023
Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

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

Back to Trek Index

Richard gower31 January 2026Trek, 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

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 gower24 January 2026Trek, 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

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

Back to Trek Index

Richard gower17 January 2026Trek, 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

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

Back to Trek Index

Richard gower10 January 2026Trek, 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 gower3 January 2026Trek, 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,

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 gower1 January 2026Trek, 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 gower1 January 2026Trek, 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

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 gower31 December 2025Trek, 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 gower24 December 2025Trek, 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 gower23 December 2025Trek, 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.

A circular cycle route map showing the path of the Salt Hill Stream and Chalvey Ditch, starting from Farnham Common and touching 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.

Back to Chiltern Rivers Index

Richard gower22 December 2025Cycle, NCN, Canal, Thames, Chilterns, Colne Valley, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, EnglandComment

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

Part 2: Between the Colenorton Brook and Boveney Ditch

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