Where woodland trails and ridgeline views offer walkers a peaceful escape just beyond London.
The Chilterns AONB — now officially known as the Chilterns National Landscape — stretches across 833 square kilometres of southern England, covering parts of Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire. With its rolling hills, ancient beechwoods, and far-reaching views, it’s one of the best walking regions close to London — and a favourite for self-guided walking holidays, weekend escapes, and nature-based slow travel.
Marked by chalk escarpments, deep green valleys, and centuries-old footpaths, the Chilterns offer walkers both variety and tranquillity. Long-distance trails such as the Ridgeway and Chiltern Way thread through this landscape, while shorter circular routes lead to Iron Age hillforts, market towns, country pubs, and quiet woodlands carpeted in bluebells come spring.
Whether you’re planning a multi-day trail or a gentle half-day ramble, the Chilterns deliver timeless beauty and well-marked routes — all within easy reach of the city.
One of Britain’s oldest roads — this National Trail traces an 87-mile chalk ridge through the Chilterns and on toward the North Wessex Downs. Expect sweeping views, Iron Age earthworks, and peaceful stretches of open hilltop.
A 134-mile circular route looping through the heart of the Chilterns. Ideal for multi-day holidays or broken into scenic day sections between villages, hills, and woodlands.
A historic route connecting the Ridgeway to East Anglia — running through the Chilterns along chalk tracks and quiet bridleways, with plenty of rural character along the way.
Explore the countryside on foot from places like Tring, Wendover, Princes Risborough, or Henley-on-Thames — with ridge walks, woodlands, and classic English views in every direction.
