Things to do in the Chilterns
As if hundreds of square miles of rolling hills and countryside were not enough, the Chilterns has lots of surprises in store.
Traditional village pubs and other places to eat:
There are fantastic walks through the Hambleden Valley and surrounding villages, including Frieth, Turville, Fingest, Skirmett and Hambleden itself. Each village has a brilliant pub, and they are all renowned for great food and ales! ☺
We have included in the minutes after each pub listed below, the time it would take on foot from the Woodland Camping area, should you wish to walk to these village pubs:
- The Bull and Butcher @ Turville 45-60 mins
- The Stag and Huntsman in Hambleden 40-50 mins
- The Chequers @ Fingest 30 mins
- The Yew Tree @ Frieth 5-10 mins
- The Grouse and Ale @ Lane End 20mins
The Brakspear website also gives plenty more choices to search for pubs in the surrounding areas
Here is a link to lots of other cafes and restaurants in our area:
There have also been many films and series made in our area such as “The Vicar of Dibley”, “Midsomer Murders”, “Nanny McPhee”, “Goodnight Mr Tom” and the list goes on… It is extremely picturesque and “olde worlde”.
Walking and cycling routes:
There are lots of walking and cycling routes in the Hambleden Valley and these three websites will give you some ideas:
One of the best picnic spots with a view that we would recommend is on the top of the “Windmill Hill” in Turville adjacent to the “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” Windmill and the view at the top is breathtaking!
Hambleden Lock
Hambleden Lock has lovely walks along the river banks. Many shallow coves run alongside the towpath, allowing you to partake in a bit of paddling, wild swimming or just picnic in the field by the river for those not wanting to brave the cold water.
The Flower Pot pub has a huge garden, and they have BBQs throughout the summer in addition to the pub menu. This is located on the towpath from Hambleden Lock, should you wish to stop for a refreshment or bite to eat.
Bush craft:
Bush craft sessions for children and adults in our woodland may be something you would like to try. David Edworthy is fully trained, insured and CRB checked to hold group sessions.
His email address is: rkbushcraft@gmail.com
Boating Down The River Thames / Water Sports:
You could hire boats or canoes and take a trip out on the River Thames in either Henley or Marlow. Two companies we would recommend would be:
If there are any keen water sports enthusiasts or novices wishing to try something new, then we highly recommend Westhorpe Lake just outside of Marlow. They offer a range of activities you can book. Please see their website for details:
We also really recommend Longridge riverside activity centre in Marlow which are fantastic for family groups wanting some outdoor fun. Please visit their website:
Here is a link for ‘The 15 Best Things To Do In Marlow’ which may also help give you some ideas for activities in the surrounding area:
Clay Pigeon Shooting:
We offer clay pigeon shooting on the farm on the first Sunday of every month.
It is organised externally by Nick Clarke (07889 542498) and Paul Avery (07831 308400). If you call either of them, they would be happy to discuss your or your group’s requirements.
The shooting takes place behind the camping fields at Lower Court Farm in Lane End village. It is a 5 min car drive from the Frieth village campsite (Woodland/Broadfield or The Park Field).
It is hosted from 10 AM on the first Sunday of every month. They will be able to advise you on what you will need to bring.
