Rapeseed field between East Claydon and Verney Junction

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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

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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.

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

Deer grazing near the Tamsin Trail

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Start & Finish: Various (see notes below)
Distance: 11.5 km (7.1 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 107m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Capital Ring, Beverley Brook Walk
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 4
Pubs / Cafes on route: Various (see notes below)
OS Trig Pillar: TP5674 - Richmond Park
Map: London South Map | Westminster, Greenwich, Croydon, Esher & Twickenham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 161
Links: Richmond, Richmond Park, Pembroke Lodge, London’s Protected Views

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The Tamsin Trail is a shared perimeter cycleway and walking path that traces the outskirts of Richmond Park, closely following the boundary wall. It was originally conceived as a way to reduce off-track cycling and protect the park's delicate grassland and flora from mountain bikers. In this regard, it is considered a highly successful addition to the park, having significantly reduced off-path riding in the vicinity.

Today, it is incredibly popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. If you happen to be there on a Saturday morning, you will likely spot the local parkrun community using part of the route.

How the Trail Got Its Name

The factual origin of the Tamsin Trail's name is well documented. The trail was under construction for several years before being officially opened in September 1997 by celebrity Jerry Hall and Peter Beckwith. It was named after Tamsin, the daughter of Peter Beckwith, who was the Chairman of The Richmond Park Charitable Trust at the time. It was his significant private donation that funded the creation of the trail.

Despite this clear history, if you chat with some of the park regulars, you might hear a couple of local legends floating around. Some say the path was named after a beloved Labrador called Tamsin who belonged to a local cyclist, while others claim it was named after Tamsin Keys, the wife of a former park ranger. While these stories add a bit of charming folklore to the walk, it is the Beckwith family's generosity we ultimately have to thank for the route.

Sharing the Path

Because it is a shared path for both cyclists and pedestrians, there have been ongoing concerns and strong views regarding the safety and co-existence of both groups. Over the years, various measures have been taken to manage this: in 2003, the police even conducted a trial specifically to catch speeding cyclists on the trail.

Additionally, near Pembroke Lodge, cyclists using the upper part of the trail would sometimes ride directly down the slope to connect to a newer lower path: this led to the installation of barriers to prevent the descent and limit soil erosion.

What to Expect on the Route

The trail is accessible and relatively easy to navigate:

• Terrain: The path is largely made of hard-packed crushed limestone and sand. While mostly flat, there are a few undulating sections, particularly the climb up Broomfield Hill near the Robin Hood Gate.

• Time Needed: For walking, it is best to allow between 2.5 and 4 hours. This gives you plenty of time to stop for photographs, rest, or grab a coffee. You can also make the walk slightly longer by using some of the smaller paths that hug closer to the boundary. We used some of these for a quieter experience as some of the Trail stays close to the main park roads.

• Starting Point: The trail connects all the main gates: Roehampton, Robin Hood, Kingston, Ham, Richmond, and East Sheen. Because of this, you can start your walk from any entrance and simply choose to go clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Highlights Along the Way

Walking the Tamsin Trail gives you a great tour of the park's varied landscapes and wildlife. Here are a few highlights to look out for:

• Beverley Brook: Just past the Roehampton Gate, the trail crosses a footbridge over this beautiful little river. The name actually comes from the Old English 'Beaver's Ley', meaning a place where beavers live. While you will not see beavers today, the brook is a fantastic spot for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled: you might spot the bright blue flash of a kingfisher, parakeets in the trees, or even deer cooling off in the shallow water during warmer weather.

• The Deer: Richmond Park is famous for its hundreds of free-roaming red and fallow deer. The trail passes many of their favourite grazing spots. Just remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed them.

• Pembroke Lodge: Situated on the high ground within the park, this Grade II listed Georgian mansion is a brilliant place to stop. It features beautifully landscaped gardens and a popular cafe. The lodge has a rich history, having once been the home of Prime Minister Lord John Russell, and its elevated position offers sweeping, panoramic views over the Thames Valley.

• King Henry's Mound and the OS Trig Pillar: Located just north of Pembroke Lodge, King Henry's Mound is a prehistoric burial chamber that provides an incredible vantage point. If you look through the trees, you can see a specially protected, framed view of St Paul's Cathedral. Just a stone's throw from the mound, between the footpath and the road, you will also spot an Ordnance Survey trig pillar. These historic concrete pillars were part of the vast retriangulation network used to map Great Britain, and this specific one sits at an elevation of 56 metres above sea level.

• Refreshments: You will not be short of places to stop. There are cafes, toilets, and water fountains at both Roehampton Gate and Pembroke Lodge, along with various refreshment kiosks located around the park.

Getting There

Richmond Park is highly accessible, whether you are arriving by public transport or driving.

By Public Transport:

• Train & Tube: The closest mainline stations are Richmond and North Sheen to the north of the park, and Norbiton to the south. You can also catch the District Line directly to Richmond Station. From these stations, it is roughly a 15 to 25-minute walk to the nearest park gate, or you can hop on a local bus.

• Bus: Several bus routes serve the park's perimeter. The 85 and K3 stop near Ladderstile Gate on Kingston Hill, the 65 stops near Ham Gate Avenue, and the 371 stops near Ham Village.

• Free Park Minibus: If you are visiting on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday between March and November, you can take advantage of the free, volunteer-run RP1 minibus. It is fully accessible for wheelchair users and loops between all the car parks and main gates.

By Car (Gates, Car Parks, and Facilities): If you are driving, the park has several main vehicle gates with car parks. Since the Tamsin Trail is a loop, you can park at any of these and start your walk immediately. Here is a breakdown of the main car parks and their facilities:

• Roehampton Gate: Car park, Roehampton Gate Café (which includes an ice cream parlour), and toilets.

• Pembroke Lodge: Car park, a fantastic café (perfect for a classic cream tea), and toilets. This is located close to Richmond Gate.

• Kingston Gate: Car park, a refreshment kiosk, and toilets.

• Sheen Gate: Car park and toilets.

• Robin Hood Gate: Car park and toilets.

• Internal Car Parks: If the gate car parks are busy, there are also internal car parks at Pen Ponds (with a kiosk) and Broomfield Hill (with a kiosk). There is also a dedicated disabled visitors' car park at Isabella Plantation, which has accessible toilets.

Note: Parking in the Royal Parks is free, but it can fill up very quickly on weekends and bank holidays. There is a 20p contactless charge to use the public toilets.

Whether you are looking for a brisk weekend walk or a leisurely stroll to take in the wildlife, the Tamsin Trail is a fantastic choice. It is a wonderful reminder of the beautiful places we have access to right outside our doors, full of history and nature that is just waiting to be explored.

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View over Quainton from the Quainton Beacon

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Start & Finish: George and Dragon pub, 32 The Green, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4AR
Distance: 13.2 km (8.2 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 144m
Terrain: The route predominantly follows public bridleways and quiet country lanes, with some muddy sections likely after heavy rain.
Midshires Way section covered: Quainton to East Claydon: 6.7 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Midshires Way, The Swan Way, North Bucks Way, Outer Aylesbury Ring, Bernwood Jubilee Way
Other routes touched (cycle): None
Pubs / Cafes on route: The George & Dragon, Quainton (at the start and end), Cafe at Hogshaw Farm and Wildlife Park (just off route at 9.7 km in)
OS Trig Pillar: TP5550 - Quainton Resr
Map: Buckingham & Milton Keynes Map | Leighton Buzzard & Woburn | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 192
Links: Quainton, East Claydon, Botolph Claydon

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

Walking Directions

This section of the Midshires Way offers a 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.

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

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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*** 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

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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 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.

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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

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

View to the River Thame and the Chilterns from Upper Winchendon

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

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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Midshires Way previous section (south): Hartwell and Stone
Midshires Way next section (north): Waddesdon and Quainton Road

Flooded River Thame

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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

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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

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Midshires Way previous section (south): Ford and Michael's Peace
Midshires Way next section (north): Waddesdon and Eythrope

Cloudy sky over the Chilterns. View from near Ford village

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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

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Midshires Way previous section (south): Ford and Kemble Wick
Midshires Way next section (north): Hartwell and Stone

Between Aston Sandford and Owlswick

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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

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Midshires Way previous section (south): Ilmer and Longwick
Midshires Way next section (north): Ford and Michael's Peace

Farmland near Sheepridge

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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

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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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Water Wheel on North Mill Road

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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,

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Midshires Way previous section (south): Hempton Wainhill & Bledlow
Midshires Way next section (north): Ford and Kemble Wick

Muswell Hill Trig Pillar

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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.

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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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Distance Travelled by Activity by Year

Distance in KM recorded by activity by year

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TOTAL DISTANCE IN 2025

• Run (outdoor): 273 miles / 436 km

• Cycle (Outdoor): 456 miles / 730 km

• Cycle (Zwift): 372 miles / 595 km

• Walk/Hike*: 734 miles / 1,175 km

• Total = 1,835 miles / 2,936 km

*Walk / Hike = recorded hiking & walking events, not general steps.

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Key Events in 2025

Running

• 1 x Ultra Marathon: The Lap 75k: Lake Windermere, Cumbria

• 9 x 10k running events: Danesfield Trail 10k, Nettlebed Stinger 10k, Chiltern Valley 10k, Green Park 10k, Reading 10k, Romney Marsh 10k, 3 Brewers 10k, Creative Juices 10k, Shardeloes 10k Trail, Blackpit 10k

• Other distance runs: Hardwick X-Stream Trail Run (9.5 km)

• parkruns:

  • 50 parkruns (Gold Obsessive), including 16 new locations

  • 9 parkrun volunteering occasions

  • 500 events milestone reached

  • 250 different events milestone reached

  • V50 milestone reached: 50 volunteering occasions total

  • 3 new parkrun countries: Isle of Man, Finland, Japan

  • Wilson Index up to 188; Golden Wilson up to 25

  • P Index up to 8

Trekking

• 2 new Country High Points: Snaefell (Isle of Man), Mount Fuji (Japan)

• 1 new European Island High Point: Roque de los Muchachos, La Palma, Spain … plus the Tajogiante Crater, La Palma

• Bagged the High Points of Helsinki

• 2 new Historic County Tops: Càrn Glas-choire (Nairnshire), Carn a'Ghille Chearr (Morayshire), Ben MacDui (Aberdeenshire & Banffshire)

• 1 new National Park High Point: Piper’s Wait, New Forest (disputed)

• 5 Kent Lathes High Points: Kingswood (Scray), Wrotham (Aylesford), Farthingloe (St Augustine), Paddlesworth (Shepway)

• Routes Completed: Chiltern Heritage Trail, Hertfordshire Way (Chilterns Section), Shakespeare’s Way (Chilterns Section), River Wey & Wey Navigation

Cycling

• Cycling The NCN 2 from Dover to Brighton

General Geekery

• Completed: All The London Coal Duty Posts

• Completed: All The London Trig Pillars

• 37 OS Trig Pillars Bagged, including TP4009 - Hope Farm: The UK's Most South-Easterly Trig Pillar

• 2 OS Canons on the Salisbury Baseline

• Completed: All The Elizabeth Line Stations

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Road junction at Bledlow

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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

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

Walking Directions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest along or near to the Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Midshires Way next section (north): Ilmer and Longwick

A winter’s day in Bisham Wood

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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

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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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View to Old Amersham from the edge of Parsonage Wood

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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.

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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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The vineyard near Pump Lane

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

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

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

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

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

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Near Wycombe Heights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The North-East: Posts 1 to 31.

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

1

2

3

4

6

7

8

9

11

12

13

14

15

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

The North-West: Posts 33 to 83

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

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

43

44

45

46

47

48

49

51

52

53

54

55

57

58

59

60

218

62

65

66

67

68

69

70

72

73

74

75

77

78

81

82

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The South-West: Posts 84 to 164

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

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

96

97

98

99

100

100b

102

103

104

105

106

107

108

109

110

113

114

115

116

117

118

119

120

121

122

123

124

125

126

127

128

129

130

131

132

133

134

136

137

138

139

140

141

142

143

144

144a

145

146

147

148

149

150

151

152

153

154

155

156

157

158

159

160

161

162

163

164

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The South-East: Posts 165 to 217

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

166

167

168

169

171

172

174

175

176

177

178

179

180

181

183

184

185

186

187

188

189

190

191

192

193

194

195

196

198

199

200

201

202

203

204

205

207

208

209

210

211

212

213

214

217

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The Final Coal Duty Post at Erith

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

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

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The Randoms

Kiln Lane Boundary Marker

Gravesend Obelisk

Medway Obelisk

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

• Kiln Lane Boundary Marker: Located next to Coal Duty Post #208 near Bexley.

• Gravesend Obelisk: Unknown whether this is related to coal duty.

• Medway Obelisk: On the Thames and Medway Canal to mark the jurisdiction of the Cities of London and Rochester for the collection of dues

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

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Coal Duty Posts in Museums

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

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

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

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

CDP 5 - Valance House Museum

CDP 74 - Chiltern Open Air Museum

CDP 75 - Chiltern Open Air Museum

CDP 83 - Replica at Staines

CDP 83 - Spelthorne Museum

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Blog posts including the London Coal Duty Posts

• 45, 46: Walking The Ebury Way

• 49,50,51: Walking The London Loop: Stanmore Common to South Oxhey

• 52 to 55: Walking The London Loop: South Oxhey to Hill End

• 59, 62: Chiltern Walks: Rickmansworth Three Rivers Circular

• 60, 65, 66: Walking The Colne Valley Trail

• 69: Walking The Beeches Way

• 84 to 95: Cycling The River Ash and Thames Path Circular

• 91 to 93: Walking the River Wey Part 1: Weybridge and Desborough Island

• 117 to 120: Chessington Countryside Walk

• #125 to 136: Epsom Downs and Langley Vale Wood Circular Walk

• 137 to 155: Banstead Heath Circular Walk

• 151, 152: Walking The North Downs Way Part 5 - Betchworth to Merstham

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Notes

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

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

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

• #17 is missing.

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

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

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

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

• #56 is missing.

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

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

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

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

• #71 is missing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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More London posts

If you enjoyed reading this post, there is plenty more to explore across the capital. I have put together a dedicated London Outdoors page where I keep track of all my other adventures around the city. It is a handy index where I group my posts by the different types of places I have visited: including historic boundary lines, canal towpaths, and some surprising urban high points.

The collection covers a bit of everything: from long-distance cycling routes to tracing the underground network on foot, and ticking off another Saturday morning parkrun. If you are looking for some inspiration for your own weekend outings, head back over to the London Outdoors page to see what else I have been up to.

Near Flamstead

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

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

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

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Point to Point: Walking the Hertfordshire Way in the Chilterns

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

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Walking the Hertfordshire Way in the Chilterns in 15 walks

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

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

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

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Section 1: Coleman Green and Wheathampstead

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

• Distance: 9.1 km (5.7 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 99m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 2: Sandridge and Heartwood Forest

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

• Distance: 12.3 km (7.7 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 106m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 3: St Albans and Childwickbury

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

• Distance: 14.3 km (8.9 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 122m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 4: Redbourn and Redbournbury

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

• Distance: 9 km (6 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 74m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 5: Flamstead and Redbourn

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

• Distance: 11.4 km (7 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 98m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 6: Flamstead and Markyate

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

• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 135m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 7: Great Gaddesden and Gaddesdon Row

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

• Distance: 9.1 km (5.7 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 116m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 8: Great Gaddesden and Ashridge

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

• Distance: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 153m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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

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

• Distance: 8.2 km (5.1 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 94m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Clockwise

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Section 10: Aldbury & Ashridge

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

• Distance: 7.8 km (4.8 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 138m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Both

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Section 11: Cow Roast and Berkhamsted Common

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

• Distance: 11.9 km (7.3 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 140m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

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Section 12: Berkhamsted Castle and Common

• Start & Finish: Berkhamsted Station, HP4 2AJ

• Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 119m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

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Section 13: Berkhamsted and Bourne End

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

• Distance: 11.9 km (7.3 miles)

• Elevation change: +/- 144m

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

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Section 14: Boxmoor to Kings Langley

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

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

• Distance: 12.8 km (7.9 miles)

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

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

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Section 15: Kings Langley to Aldenham

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

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

• Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

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

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

• Hertfordshire Way Direction: Anti-clockwise

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