Reed-lined riverbank with autumn trees and open fields in Buckinghamshire, South East England.

Buckinghamshire – Chalk Hills, Woodland, and River Valleys

Chalk ridges, wooded slopes, and farmland between the Thames Valley and the Midlands plain

Buckinghamshire is a county of chalk hills, mixed woodland, river valleys, and farmland in South East England. Walking routes cross the Chilterns National Landscape and follow the Ridgeway, Thames Path, South Bucks Way, and Aylesbury Ring, linking places such as High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Marlow, Wendover, and Buckingham along ridge tracks, woodland paths, and riverside routes.

Much of the terrain is firm and gently rolling underfoot. Bridleways, woodland trails, field paths, and towpaths allow steady progress with moderate gradients, while steeper climbs occur along the Chiltern escarpment and chalk ridges.

The landscape shifts between areas. The south is dominated by wooded Chiltern hills and dry valleys, the centre opens into wider farmland around Aylesbury Vale, and the north becomes flatter with arable fields and river corridors.

Towns and villages are frequent along valley floors and transport routes, creating regular access points for shorter walks and longer point-to-point routes across connected countryside.

Trails and Routes Through Buckinghamshire

The Ridgeway

A National Trail following chalk ridges between Avebury and Ivinghoe Beacon on open tracks and downland paths.

Thames Path

A National Trail following the River Thames along the southern boundary of the county between Marlow and Cookham on riverside towpaths.

South Bucks Way

A long-distance route linking Denham, Beaconsfield, and Wendover through woodland, farmland, and chalk hills.

Aylesbury Ring

A circular multi-day route around Aylesbury Vale using field paths, villages, and lowland countryside.

Phoenix Trail

A traffic-free former railway path between Princes Risborough and Thame used for walking and cycling.

Walking Character

• Chalk ridges and escarpment paths
• Beech woodland and dry valleys
• Farmland and open fields
• Riverside and canal towpaths
• Bridleways and woodland tracks
• Frequent villages and market towns
• Rolling and inland

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Buckinghamshire located?

Buckinghamshire is in South East England between Greater London, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Northamptonshire, with the Chiltern Hills running east–west across the south of the county.

What defines walking here?

Wooded chalk hills, farmland paths, ridge tracks, and riverside routes with moderate gradients.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The Ridgeway and Thames Path National Trails cross the county, alongside several regional and circular routes.

Is the terrain steep?

There are steady climbs on the Chiltern escarpment and ridge paths, while the vale and river sections are generally level.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through autumn offers firmer ground and longer daylight, while winter conditions can be muddy on woodland and farmland paths.