Looking for a slice of quintessential England? This guide to the best things to do in the Chilterns includes everything from scenic walks to historic market towns. With rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and cosy pubs, the region offers many of the things people love most about the English countryside.
Stretching across Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Oxfordshire, the Chiltern Hills are officially recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The name “Chilterns” likely comes from the Old English word Ciltern, meaning “a chalky place” – a nod to the region’s distinctive chalk hills and limestone ridges.
I’ve been visiting the Chilterns for over 20 years and always find new places to enjoy. In this article, I’ll take you through some of my favourite walks, villages, and countryside spots. From old English estates to market towns with independent shops and traditional pubs.
Read next: More UK articles in my United Kingdom Travel Guide
1. Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
One of the best things to do in the Chilterns is to visit Dunstable Downs. Here you can embrace the great outdoors, where the skies meet rolling chalk hills. The views from Dunstable Downs are stunning, but make sure to layer-up, because it can get very windy here.
Windy is the perfect weather condition for flying a kite though. Either bring one yourself, or enjoy the many kite flyers performing their kite flying rituals. If you’re lucky you can even watch paragliders riding the air waves.
From the visitors centre you can start one of the way-marked routes, such as the Wildlife Walk, Whipsnade Tree Cathedral Walk and the Stone Age Walk. All of them are circular walks and take up to 1.5 hours to complete.
When you’re all done soaking up the stunning views across the surrounding countryside head to cafe on site. They have some great food and drink options and there’s also a cute little store operated by National Trust.
2. Ivinghoe Beacon
Dominating the skyline with its iconic shape, Ivinghoe Beacon is another must-visit landmark on this list of things to do in the Chilterns. Hike to the summit for a sense of achievement and to witness the stunning panorama of Aylesbury Vale stretching as far as the eye can see.
The area surrounding Ivinghoe Beacon has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human activity dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological excavations suggest that the beacon may have served as a strategic stronghold and settlement for early inhabitants.
Insider Tip: Link Tring to Ivinghoe Beacon and Ashridge Estate on the ‘Ivinghoe Beacon Ridgeway Circular Walk’. Check out the map and route description right here.
3. Ashridge Estate
Next up is a visit to Ashridge House and Estate. The House has some beautiful gardens for which you have to pay an entrance fee. You can also enjoy the estate for free by following one of the many paths after you’ve parked the car on Monument Drive.
If you happen to visit in the right season (mid-April to mid-May) you can witness the bluebells season. Now you might be wondering why I’m separately mentioning the bluebells and why they are so special. Let me answer that by quoting the National Trust:
The presence of bluebells is a sign that a woodland is ancient and has been present in the landscape for at least 400 years.
National Trust
So as you can imagine, the bluebells are part of a fragile ecosystem and definitely worth planning your visit to the Chilterns around. Even more so when you know that about half of the world’s bluebells can be found in the UK.
When you’re visiting in bluebells season, follow the waymarked route from the visitor centre on Monument Drive to Docky Wood for best views.
When it’s not bluebells season Ashridge Estate is still very worthy of a visit. Check out the monument, walk your dog, visit Ashridge House gardens and follow one of the many footpaths.
Tip: Bring waterproof hiking shoes, or even Wellington boots, since it can get quite muddy here throughout the year.
4. The town of Tring and Tring Park
Probably my favourite town in the Chilterns is Tring. This charming town beckons you with its historic streets and picturesque setting. Visit the weekly Farmers Market on Saturday and explore the town’s streets that are lined with independent shops and inviting cafes.
Done shopping and eating, or maybe you’re saving that part for later, then head to Tring Park. Follow Akeman Road south, passing Tring Natural History Museum and some beautiful houses, and cross the footbridge into the park.
Continue heading into the woods and walk along King Charles Ride. This former carriage ride also forms part of the Ridgeway National Trail. Finish your encounter with Tring Park by following the paths to the Obelisk and the Summerhouse.
Also read: Things To Do In Tring | Best Walks, Food & Local Highlights
5. Ascott House
Ascott House is an Old English manor house constructed with black and white half timber. At its core the house is an old farmhouse with brick chimneystacks. This part of the building is thought to date from 1606. In more recent times however, the house has been renovated by the Rothschild family.
Inside the house (closed on Mondays) you can check out the fantastic collection of paintings and fine furniture. But if you’re into a lovely walk then the gardens are yours to explore.
Ascott House is actually situated a little north of the Chilterns, but I feel it breathes the charm of the region. So if you have enough time, make sure to add Ascott House on your list of things to do in the Chilterns.
6. Stowe House
Stowe House is the next place on this list of things to do in the Chilterns, and is even further away from the Chilterns than Ascott House. I decided to include it however, because Stowe House is situated in the north of Buckinghamshire. And Buckinghamshire is the county where the largest part of the Chilterns is located.
Stowe House is renowned for its magnificent early 18th century Georgian architecture that holds a rich and storied history. The mansion has played host to royalty, aristocrats, and statesmen over the centuries. Many of these people were avid art collectors resulting in walls adorned with plenty of paintings.
But while the house is beautiful and interesting to the visit, I think the gardens are the star of a visit to Stowe House. You could literally spend the whole day in these landscaped gardens. They are renowned as some of the finest in all of England and feature lakes, cascading waterfalls and ornamental temples.
Beyond the 250 acres of garden and the house you can find another 750 acres of parkland. So bring foods and drinks for a picnic and discover what makes Stowe House on of the best things to do in the Chilterns regional area.
7. Explore Historic Old Amersham
Old Amersham is one of the Chilterns’ most charming market towns, known for its medieval High Street, historic coaching inns, and scenic countryside walks.
Stroll past timber-framed buildings, visit St. Mary’s Church with its stunning stained-glass windows, or stop by the Amersham Museum to learn about the town’s past. For a peaceful break, relax in the Memorial Gardens or take a walk along the River Misbourne to the Old Amersham viewpoint.
The town also has excellent cafés, pubs, and Michelin-starred dining at The Artichoke. Just a short train ride from London, Old Amersham is a perfect day trip or weekend getaway in the Chilterns.
Also read: Things To Do In Old Amersham | A Historic Market Town Guide
8. Waddesdon Manor
We’ve reached the halfway point on this list of best things to do in the Chilterns.
From Stowe House we get back closer to the actual Chilterns with Waddesdon Manor. Prepare to be stunned by the elegance and opulence of this house that’s built in a magnificent French Renaissance style.
The mansion is nestled in stunning formal gardens and rolling parkland. Built in the late 19th century by the Rothschild family, this architectural masterpiece boasts lavish interiors adorned with Rothschild’s fine art and antiques collection.
From March to October join the 45-minute guided tours of the gardens and learn about Waddesdon Manor and the Rothschild family. These tours are included in your entrance fee ticket.
For foodies and wine enthusiasts Waddesdon has even more to offer. Join in on a cellar tour to learn more about the history of Rothschild wines. You could also join a wine tasting in the cellars or come here for a traditional Sunday Roast.
Tip: Get your tickets in advance for the house and grounds right here, or for the gardens only right here.
9. Coombe Hill and Chequers Trail
You probably know that the British Prime Minister’s official residence is on no. 10 Downing Street in London. But did you also know that the Prime Minister’s country house is right in the centre of the Chilterns?
To get a closer look at the beautiful country house at Chequers you can follow the Coombe Hill & Chequers Trail. This moderate difficulty hike takes you to chalk grassland, beautiful woodlands and the village of Ellesborough.
From there you walk past the Prime Minister’s country retreat at Chequers before arriving back at the start of the trail. All along the way you have beautiful views of Aylesbury Vale.
The trail is oftentimes muddy and can therefore become slippery, so don shoes with a good grip. You need about 3 hours to do the whole trail. After finishing you can make your way to the Chiltern Brewery for a tasty glass of beer (closed on Sunday though). Alternatively go into the town of Wendover for some refueling.
10. Great Missenden and the Roald Dahl Museum
Right in the heart of the Chilterns you can visit the beautiful village of Great Missenden. Fans of Roald Dahl’s books, such as ‘The Witches’, ‘Charley and the Chocolate Factory’ and ‘James and the Giant Peach’ can visit the Roald Dahl Museum here.
The museum is aimed at children, but if you grew up with the books a visit could be interesting enough for adults as well.
Other sights worth seeing in Great Missenden are the St. Peter’s & St. Paul’s Church and the Missenden Abbey. There isn’t much shopping in Great Missenden, but the farm shop at Peterley Manor Farm is a destination in itself.
Shop fresh foods from this family run farm and other local suppliers, or sit down for breakfast or lunch in cafe The Barn Kitchen.
For lunch or dinner you can visit the Nags Head, where they also service a delicious Sunday Roast. They also have accommodation for a sound sleep in the heart of the Chilterns. Check availability right here on booking.com.
11. Walk up the hill to North Dean and Lacey Green
Another wonderful walk on this list of best things to do in the Chilterns starts at Bryants Bottom. On the road there’s a small entrance gate next to the Hughenden Parish Council announcement board. From there head up Piggott’s Hill to North Dean for some wonderful views.
From North Dean you can continue to Speen and then onwards to the Lacey Green windmill. The windmill can only be entered a few hours each Sunday afternoon between April and September and on some bank holidays.
From Lacey Green you can either turn around and head back to Bryants Bottom, or if you took public transportation there you can also continue to Princess Risborough Railway Station.
12. Hughenden Manor
Step into the pages of history at Hughenden Manor, a magnificent country house with a storied past. Once the home of Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, this elegant manor offers a glimpse into the lives of its former residents.
Surrounding Hughenden Manor are picturesque gardens and large parkland that are perfect for a retreat in nature. Stroll through the lawns, fragrant flower beds and shaded woodland trails. But don’t forget to pause every once in a while to admire the panoramic views of the countryside.
Interesting fact is that during World War II, Hughenden Manor played a crucial role in Britain’s war effort as a top secret map-making and intelligence center. This intelligence centre was known as ‘Operation Hillside’. This part of the house is also open for visitors.
13. Cliveden House
The final house to visit on this list of things to do in the Chilterns is the magnificent Cliveden House. Here you can immerse yourself in the luxury and grandeur of a mansion set amidst over 300 acres of stunning formal gardens and pristine woodlands.
The National Trust has recently undertaken extensive renovations at Cliveden House to preserve the historic architecture, cultural heritage and natural beauty. Efforts include restoring magnificent interiors, conserving priceless art and antiques, and enhancing the gardens and landscapes.
The gardens and grounds are simply beautiful and you just feel the historical significance of the place as you walk along the footpaths. Apart from the footpaths make sure to visit the unassuming chapel on the grounds. The interior in there is stunning! From the chapel continue your way to the Rose Garden, the Water Garden, Lord Astor’s sculpture collection and the Cliveden Maze.
Cliveden House is situated next to one of the prettiest stretches of the Thames River making for a perfect stroll along the river. If you prefer a trip on the water, then check out boat hire options on the website of boating at Cliveden.
Cliveden House is currently leased as a luxury country hotel and is generally not open to visitors. But sometimes they offer guided visits, so check their website for activities. Of course you can also book an afternoon tea to get access to the house.
Tip: Being a 5-star hotel, you can of course also choose to stay in this luxurious country house. Check availability and book your stay at Cliveden House right here.
14. Marlow
On the southern end of the Chilterns there’s two picturesque towns to visit, Marlow and Henley-on-Thames. And as the name of the latter suggests, these towns are situated on the banks of the Thames river.
Some of the best things to do in Marlow include a walk in Higginson Park along the Thames river bank. From there cross over to the other side of the water using the Marlow Bridge.
Continue with a visit to the All Saints Church and afterwards grab some pub grub and a pint at The Two Brewers. If you’re looking for some more upscale (one Michelin star) pub lunch then you should head to The Coach, which is surprisingly affordable.
Afterwards explore the charming town’s historic streets, lined with timber-framed buildings and eclectic shops. For your coffee fix take a seat at The Cedar Coffee Shop or Satollo.
Also read: Best Things To Do In Marlow, Buckinghamshire (2026 Guide)
15. Henley-on-Thames
Finally on this list of best things to do in the Chilterns is Henley-on-Thames, which is renowned for its scenic riverside setting. There are many unique shops for gifts and fashion, and plenty of options to grab a coffee, most notable being Berries Coffee.
The best thing to do in Henley-on-Thames however is to stroll along Thames riverside. Along the river you’ll see many elegant Georgian townhouses and charming cafes. You can walk all the way to the Baskerville pub in Shiplake, taking you about an hour. From there either walk back, or take the train.
Henley-on-Thames is world famous for the Henley Royal regatta, so why not add a visit to Leander Rowing Club. You can start another walk from here as well, the Flower Pot Loop.
Follow the straight part of the river heading north, passing Temple Island. After the river bend continue to the Flower Pot Pub. Finish this 2-hour loop by heading back to town.
If you don’t feel like going for a walk you can also take it to the water with a leisurely boat trip along the river. You can rent a private boat from Hobbs, or join one of their daily river trips (April to September). Afterwards take a seat on the terrace of The Angel on the Bridge for some drinks.
More Things To Do in The Chilterns Region
The Chilterns are located right between London and Oxford, so these are the most obvious places to head to next. Spend a full day in Oxford or visit this lovely University city as a day trip from London.
If you’re looking for more countryside destinations close to the Chilterns you can also add the following to your list:
- Woburn Abbey | Has been undergoing extensive renovations since 2019, but is expected to reopen sometime in 2026.
- Rushmere Country Park | More beautiful woodlands for long walks.
- Beaconsfield | The stage for Ricky Gervais’ Netflix show Afterlife.
- The Cotswolds | This collection of typical English towns and mansions is between Oxford and Bristol.
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour | For Harry Potter fans and parents with kids.
Also read: Best Things To Do In Oxford On A Day Trip From London
Map of the Chilterns
Check out the handy map of the Chilterns to get an idea of where the region is located and of all the things to in the Chilterns.
Where To Stay in The Chilterns
The Chilterns offer a perfect escape from the big smoke that London is. But the region is even better visited as a long (romantic) weekend getaway.
Find two suggestions below that are a perfect base for discovering all that The Chilterns have to offer:
- Danesfield House Hotel Spa | For the ultimate romantic experience this beautiful house has all you need for your Chilterns getaway.
- Bel & The Dragon at Red Lion | Stay in this restored premium, contemporary English inn, with sophisticated charm and historic 17th century character.
How To Get To The Chilterns
Fly to London Heathrow (LHR) or London Luton (LTN)
The Chilterns region is easy to get to by air from anywhere in the world. That is because London Heathrow is situated to the region’s southeast. Alternatively, when flying from within Europe you can also fly to London Luton (LTN). This airport is basically situated in the Chilterns.
Tip: Check Google Flights for availability and book your flights directly with the airline. Or compare and book flights through booking.com.
Take the train to the Chilterns when already in England
If you already are in England or the UK you can also take the train to get to the Chilterns. The main train operators servicing the region are Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Railway.
The main stations that you could head to are Tring from London Euston. Various stations on Chiltern Railways from London Marylebone or Oxford such as Wendover, Great Missenden and Princess Risborough. And Henley-on-Thames and Marlow with a changeover from London Paddington.
How to buy your train tickets to the Chilterns
There are so many different operators on the tracks in the UK, that an app is a really great help. When I’m in the UK I always use the app from thetrainline.com, or omio.com.
How To Get Around in The Chilterns
Public Transport can be a challenge to get around
I’m not going to sugarcoat it, but as charming as the region is, its public transportation is ancient. There’s hardly any buses connecting the towns, or the services are so infrequent that it becomes a challenge to actually use it.
So if anything, you can only really count on the trains to get around if using public transportation. Though sometimes, in order to reach another town in the Chilterns, be prepared to take a train via London!
Tip: The best website for checking out trains in the UK is The Trainline. They show you all the options, and also the advance discounts if available.
Alternatively, seriously consider renting a car on your arrival at Heathrow or Luton airports.
Rent a car to get around The Chilterns
Your best bet to see as much as possible on this list of things to do in the Chilterns is to rent a car. When searching for a car I always use booking.com to find the best deal.
Don’t forget to add additional car insurance for a small extra fee to reduce your risk.
Insider tip: Instead of renting a car in London Heathrow or London Luton airports, check availability in High Wycombe or Aylesbury. Renting a car there can be a lot cheaper, but do factor in that you also need to get there from the airport.
Final Thoughts on Things To Do in The Chilterns
Thanks for reading all the way to the end of my article on the best things to do in The Chilterns. I hope to have inspired you to check out this wonderful English region. Pick a few locations in this article that are located close to each other and you could make it a wonderful day or long weekend away from the big smoke of London.
Have you been to the Chilterns, or do you have any questions? Then leave a comment below, or contact me on Instagram. Want to keep up to date with future articles on England and other parts of the world, then sign up to my newsletter.
Planning your trip to the United Kingdom? Make sure to include the Chilterns on your trip. And continue reading the articles in my United Kingdom Travel Guide, or read the latest articles below:
Ahh, The Chilterns. Wonderful area of England! Tring is my all time favourite town. So many independent shops and the views at Tring Park are amazing. Excellent list of places Martin!
Tring is indeed such a lovely town and I cannot wait to return and explore both the town and the area around it. Some other favourite towns include Amersham and Marlow.