Chiltern Hills Hikes

Just north of London lies some of the best walking around any big city on earth. The Chiltern Hills amaze walkers, with untouched beauty, beautiful little villages and good transport links to London. If you want to hike near London, some of the best walks can be found north of the city, in the Chiltern Hills.

The top hikes in The Chilterns range from beginner to more difficult trails, with quite a few being completely family-friendly.

#1. Pegsdon and Deacon Hill (7.9km, 127m, 1.5-2h): This wonderful walk in the Chilterns follows an undulating path through rolling fields until you reach the stunning views at the peak at Deacon Hill. Be sure to bring your camera!

#2. Hurley Loop (9.0km, 127m, 2.5-3.25h): This wonderful trail meanders along the Thames before heading uphill into dense woodland and open fields, returning through the quaint, historic village of Hurley.

#3. Ashridge Boundary Trail (28.3km, 342m, 7.25-9.25h): This walk gives walkers complete immersion in the Chiltern Hills. Expect to see dear, red kites, and other wildlife as well as stunning views from Ivinghoe Beacon, the highest point of the trail.

#4. Wendover Loop (16.6km, 224m, 3.75-4.75h): This interesting Chiltern walk enjoys ever changing scenery, from the initial ascent along the Ridgeway to ancient woodland, farmers’ fields and a 4.8km stretch along the lazy river like canal to finish.

#5. Hambledon Lock (4.0km, 13m, 1-1.25h): This short, mostly paved hike is a great walk for the whole family! Take your time to explore the unique river crossing, and watch the boats as they navigate the locks!

#6. Aston Rowant (6.1km, 176m, 2-2.5h): This trail boasts beautiful views high above the surrounding Chiltern countryside. This is a great place to bring a picnic and enjoy the views!

#7. Grand Union Canal – Tring to Berkhamsted (7.4km, 21m, 2-2.5h): Enjoy a picturesque walk alongside the historic Grand Union Canal, from the train station in Tring to the train station in Berkhamsted. Watch the ducks swim lazily past boats navigating the locks.

#8. Brush Hill & White Leaf Nature Reserve (10.8km, 201m, 3.25-4.25h): A perfect Chiltern walk, with stunning views, soaring birds, dense woodland, and a glimpse of the Prime Ministers Country retreat, this trail really does have something for everyone!

#9. The Firecrest Loop – Wendover (4.5km, 79m, 1-1.25h): This well maintained woodland trail is a great family walk in the Chilterns! Look out for the white belly, golden ‘collar’, and quick movements of the Firecrest: at about the size of a 10p coin it is the UK’s smallest bird.

#10. The Burnham Beeches Loop Trail (4.2km, 22m, 1-1.25h): This short walk is great for families with a couple of short, steep hills to challenge young explorers. Explore the primeval woodland at your own pace as you pass ponds, ancient settlements, meadows, marshlands, and thousands of beech trees.