Chilterns Scenic Drive

Take a scenic drive through the Chilterns and experience the beauty of England! This 33 mile route starts in Chalfont St. Giles and ends in Henley-on-Thames, taking you through the picturesque towns of Amersham, Great Missenden and West Wycombe. Along the way, you can explore the historic architecture, lush countryside and quaint villages of the Chilterns. The best time of year to take this drive is during the spring and summer months, when the countryside is in full bloom and the weather is perfect for a drive. The roads are in good condition and, although some parts are narrow, the drive is suitable for all drivers. This is a great way to spend a day and make memories, all on a moderate budget. So why not take a drive through the Chilterns today?

Chalfont St. Giles is a picturesque village located in the Chiltern Hills of England, and is the starting point for the Chilterns Scenic Drive. This drive takes you through some of the most spectacular countryside in the Chilterns, with rolling hills, patchwork fields and ancient beech forests. Chalfont St. Giles is a great place to start your journey, with plenty of attractions to explore. The village boasts a 12th-century church, a manor house dating back to the 17th century, and the impressive Chiltern Open Air Museum, which offers a unique insight into traditional rural life. There is also a selection of pubs and restaurants to enjoy, and a variety of shops to browse. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is London Heathrow (LHR), located approximately 30 miles away. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to start your journey to Chalfont St. Giles. So why not make Chalfont St. Giles your starting point for your Chilterns Scenic Drive? You’ll find plenty of sights to explore and experience, and a great selection of places to enjoy a bite to eat or a drink.

Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for a scenic 6 mile journey from Chalfont St. Giles to Amersham. This drive will take you less than an hour, and you'll be surrounded by beautiful countryside. Take your time to enjoy the winding roads and narrow sections, and keep an eye out for any interesting sights along the way. Start your journey in Chalfont St. Giles, where you can visit the historic Chalfont St. Giles Church, a beautiful Grade I listed building that dates back to the 12th century. As you continue your journey, you'll pass through the village of Jordans, home to the Quaker meeting house where William Penn signed the Pennsylvania Charter of Privileges in 1701. Your destination is Amersham, where you can explore the Old Town, a conservation area of medieval buildings and cobbled streets. Make sure you visit the 15th century Old Amersham Church, and the beautiful 15th century timber-framed Old Town Hall. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, see your itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your drive!

Welcome, road-trippers! Let's start a beautiful journey from Amersham to Great Missenden. This 5mi drive will take you less than an hour, so make sure to enjoy the scenic road while you drive. In some sections, the road will be a bit narrow, so pay attention. You will pass through some of the most interesting places in England, including Amersham Old Town, Little Missenden, and Great Missenden. Amersham Old Town is a great place to explore its old buildings, pubs, and restaurants. Little Missenden is a charming village with a 13th-century church and beautiful scenery. Great Missenden is home to the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, a great place for kids and adults alike. Make sure to explore these places and take lots of pictures. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Welcome to the Great Missenden to West Wycombe road trip stage! This 9mi drive will take you less than 1 hour to complete and will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in England. You'll be able to take in the stunning views of the Chiltern Hills, with their rolling hills and lush green pastures. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of road and the scenic views. Along the way, be sure to stop in Great Missenden to see the beautiful St. Peter and St. Paul Church, or in West Wycombe to explore the famous Hellfire Caves. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your drive!

Are you ready for a scenic road trip from West Wycombe to Henley-on-Thames? This 13mi journey will take you less than an hour, and you’ll get to experience the best of both places. On your way, you’ll drive along narrow sections of the road, so keep your eyes open and take in the sights. Make sure to stop in West Wycombe and visit the Hell-Fire Caves, a unique and mysterious network of man-made tunnels. Once you’re in Henley-on-Thames, be sure to check out the River and Rowing Museum, a great place to learn about the region’s history. For a more relaxing experience, take a stroll along the River Thames and admire the beautiful views. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!

The picturesque town of Henley-on-Thames is the perfect ending point of the Chilterns Scenic Drive. Situated in the county of Oxfordshire, Henley is the perfect combination of a small town feel with the convenience of being close to larger cities like Reading and London. Henley-on-Thames is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the Henley Bridge, built in 1786 and the oldest bridge on the river Thames. The bridge is made of five arches and it is a great place to take a picture. The Henley Royal Regatta is a major event in the town. It is the oldest and most famous rowing event in the world, and it's held every summer. The River and Rowing Museum is a must-visit for visitors. The museum has a wide variety of artifacts related to the history of rowing and the River Thames. The museum also has an interactive gallery, where you can learn about the history of the region. For those traveling by air, the nearest international airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR). From there, it is easy to take a train or bus to Henley-on-Thames. The Chilterns Scenic Drive is a great way to end your road trip, and Henley-on-Thames is the perfect place to do it. Enjoy the quaint charm of the town and explore the wonderful sights and attractions that the area has to offer.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 33-mile journey through the Chilterns which starts from the quintessential village of Chalfont St. Giles and ends in the picturesque riverside town of Henley-on-Thames. This scenic route offers not only a glimpse into England's rich historical tapestry but also showcases the lush countryside and the quaint, idyllic villages of the region.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Chalfont St. Giles: Begin your adventure in this village, which exudes a sense of stepping back in time with its historic buildings, including the 12th-century parish church and Milton's Cottage, where the poet John Milton completed 'Paradise Lost.'
• Amersham: A short drive away is Amersham, a market town with a blend of old-world charm and modern culture. Its High Street is lined with half-timbered buildings and offers a variety of shops and eateries.
• Great Missenden: Literary enthusiasts will delight in visiting the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, a tribute to the beloved children's author who lived in the village for 36 years.
• West Wycombe: Explore the grand estate of West Wycombe Park, an 18th-century country house, and delve into the intriguing Hellfire Caves, a network of man-made chalk and flint caverns with a fascinating history.
• Henley-on-Thames: Your journey concludes in this historic town known for its rowing heritage. Wander along the Thames Path, visit the River & Rowing Museum, or coincide your Trip with the Henley Royal Regatta, one of the world's most prestigious rowing events.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this Road Trip is during the spring and summer months when the Chilterns are lush and verdant, with an array of wildflowers in bloom. The warmer weather during these seasons is perfect for leisurely drives and outdoor exploration.

Potential Risks:

Roads in the Chilterns are well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, particularly through the villages and woodland areas. Caution is advised, especially for those unaccustomed to rural driving conditions in the UK.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Chilterns are designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering some of the most enchanting landscapes in the country, including chalk hills and ancient woodlands.
• This self-guided Road Trip is a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable, yet culturally and naturally enriching day out.
• The route is suitable for drivers of all skill levels, but it's also possible to explore parts of the Chilterns by bike or on foot if you prefer a more active adventure.

A good choice for:

Discover the splendor of the Chilterns by car and experience a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature. This Road Trip will take you through the heart of England, offering a memorable escape that is rich in scenic beauty and steeped in heritage.