Explore the Chilterns
The Chiltern Way is a 177 mile perambulation of the AONB highlighting the best features of this historic landscape: pretty old villages, downland with extensive views, and the characteristic Chiltern patchwork of woods and fields.
Suitable for walkers of all abilities, the route is well signposted and is regularly checked by our volunteers. Whether you want to walk the whole route or sample a section on a circular walk, this page has all the information you need.
With the publication of a new Guide in 2023, the northern and southern extensions have been incorporated into the core Chiltern Way, taking the route into new areas. There are further extensions and options: the Berkshire Loop is an extension south of the Thames and there is a 43 mile circuit of the North Chilterns.
Extensions and options
There are three extensions to the Chiltern Way:
- The Berkshire Loop is a 29 mile extension which crosses the Thames twice
- The North Chiltern Trail is a 43 mile circuit from Sharpenhoe Clappers via Barton and Preston to Peters Green. It then follows the Northern Link to return to the Clappers
- Links following the original route of the Chiltern Way:
- Northern Link: 15 miles from Sharpenhoe Clappers to Peters Green via Warden Hill, Lilley and Cockernhoe
- Southern Link: 6 miles from Maidensgrove to Ewelme.
Chiltern Way updates
- Route changes in Ashridge, Houghton Regis and Barton
Explore it for yourself
Own the definitive Chiltern Way guide by the route’s creator, Nick Moon.
Plan your walk
Suggested itineraries and further information about access can be found at:
Chiltern Way Planner
Distance table and information on pubs, cafes, public transport, parking and accommodation. The button below downloads an Excel file.
Chiltern Way GPX
The route and extensions as a GPX file for navigation with a smartphone or dedicated device. The button below downloads the file.
Basic Guide
Basic stage by stage directions to navigate with your smartphone are available on OS Maps, and as downloadable leaflets. Links for these are on our Basic Guide webpage.
Download our Chiltern Way Basic Guide (PDF) for more details.
Sample the Chiltern Way
Princes Risborough
Circular Walk
Try this 7 mile circular walk which follows sections of The Ridgeway and the Chiltern Way, and will take you through beautiful Chilterns scenery including some of our very own nature reserves and heritage sites.
Ivinghoe Beacon
Circular Walk
A 10 mile circuit passing through the National Trust Ashridge Estate. You can enjoy the contrasts between the airy ridges on The Ridgeway and the patchwork of woods and fields on the Chiltern Way.
Try the first stage
of the route
Hemel Hempstead to Chalfont St Giles (13 miles). Head south through villages, fields and woodland. Cross the Chess near Sarratt and pass the Chiltern Open Air Museum on the way to Chalfont St Giles.
Get involved
Subscribe to our eNews
Make a donation
