The best walks and hikes around Chesham Bois
4.6
(1510)
8,504
hikers
639
hikes
Hikes around Chesham Bois explore the rolling landscapes of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by extensive ancient woodlands, such as Chesham Bois Wood, and paths that follow the chalk stream of the River Chess. The terrain consists mainly of gentle hills and well-maintained footpaths through forests and open meadows, making it accessible for many ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Chesham Bois
- The most popular hiking route is Chesham, Old Chesham & Riverβ¦
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.9
(9)
48
hikers
20.2km
05:19
180m
170m
Embark on the Chess Valley loop from Amersham, a difficult hike through the picturesque Chiltern Hills. This challenging route covers 12.5 miles (20.2 km) with 576 feet (175 metres) ofβ¦
4.8
(10)
34
hikers
6.59km
01:45
70m
70m
Embark on an easy hike along the tranquil River Chess, a beautiful chalk stream winding through the Chilterns National Landscape. This 4.1-mile (6.6 km) loop offers a pleasant journey withβ¦
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4.8
(4)
29
hikers
4.43km
01:14
80m
80m
Embark on the Amersham & Old Amersham loop, an easy hike covering 2.8 miles (4.4 km) with a gentle 263 feet (80 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 1β¦
5.0
(6)
25
hikers
Embark on an easy hike through the Bois Wood and River Chess weir loop from Waterside, a delightful journey spanning 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain ofβ¦
4.7
(3)
6
hikers
15.7km
04:08
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Other adventures around Chesham Bois
Tips from the Community
Truly a village that is steeped in olde worlde charm. Some great restaurants and pubs. The history seeps through its pores. The Kings Arms Hotel & The Crown Hotel & Pub in Amersham, was the set of a scene the 4 Weddings and a funeral movie.
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Beautiful town and perfect to finish off hike/ walking trail, great choice of CafΓ©, try sitting outside @ Amersham House for coffee/ brunch
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There is a lovely little weir on the River Chess here that's worth stopping by. Also, on the same pond, you will see stepping stones (called Steps of Heaven by some) if you'd like to walk across! A good few years ago, I used to live in the street right next to these ponds, so I can vouch for the fact that this is a great place to spend some time at, particularly in the summer.
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Right next to The Church of St Mary here at the heart of Amersham, there is a really beautiful Garden of Remembrance and War Memorial dedicated to those who fell in World War 1. As for the church, it's a very old one, dating from the 13th century. The history of the church includes the persecution of the Lollards (16th century) when a group of locals known as Amersham Martyrs were burnt at the stake on the hill above the town. Since 1958, the church has been a Grade I listed building.
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There is a lovely little weir on the River Chess here that's worth stopping by. Also, on the same pond, you will see stepping stones (called Steps of Heaven by some) if you'd like to walk across! A good few years ago, I used to live in the street right next to these ponds, so I can vouch for the fact that this is a great place to spend some time at, particularly in the summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many walking trails to choose from around Chesham Bois?
Yes, there are over 650 hiking routes to explore in the area. These range from gentle woodland strolls to more challenging treks through the Chiltern Hills, with more than half of the trails rated as easy.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Chesham Bois?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the beautiful beech woodlands, the well-maintained paths along the River Chess, and the variety of circular walks available.
Are there any good family-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. The region has many gentle trails suitable for all ages. A great option is the Amersham & Old Amersham loop, which is a relatively short and easy walk that offers a pleasant introduction to the local scenery.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Yes, the walks around Chesham Bois are generally very dog-friendly. The extensive woodlands like Chesham Bois Wood and Captains Wood are popular spots for dog walkers. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near farmland and wildlife.
Are there any circular walks that are around 5 miles long?
Yes, there are many loop trails of that length. For a route that combines varied scenery, consider the Chesham Old Town to The Lee loop via Herbert's Hole. While it's longer than 5 miles, it provides a fantastic tour of the area's woodlands and countryside.
What is the best time of year to hike in Chesham Bois?
Hiking here is rewarding year-round, but spring is particularly special when the ancient woodlands are carpeted with bluebells. Autumn also offers stunning scenery with rich colours in the beech forests.
What kind of wildlife might I see along the River Chess?
The River Chess is a chalk stream, which is a rare and valuable habitat. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, water voles, and brown trout. The surrounding water meadows and woods are also home to a variety of birdlife.
Where can I find a good woodland walk?
The area is famous for its ancient beech woodlands. A lovely, easy route that takes you through the heart of the woods is the Bois Wood and River Chess weir loop. It's a short walk that showcases the magnificent trees and a weir on the river.
Is it possible to walk from Amersham to Chesham Bois?
Yes, there are several trails connecting the two towns. For a longer, more challenging day out, the Chess Valley loop from Amersham is a fantastic option that follows the river and takes in the beautiful scenery of the Chilterns.
What are the parking options for the walking trails?
Parking is available in Chesham and Amersham town centres, which are good starting points for many routes. Some smaller nature reserves, like Sarratt Bottom, have very limited or no dedicated parking, so it's often best to start your walk from one of the main towns.
Are there any particularly scenic spots or viewpoints?
The entire Chilterns National Landscape is known for its scenic beauty. Latimer Park is a local favorite, offering wonderful views that change with the seasons and lovely paths along the River Chess. Many trails offer elevated viewpoints over the rolling hills and valleys.
Are there other outdoor activities besides hiking?
Yes, during the summer months you can visit the Chesham Outdoor Pool for a swim. For more information on opening times and prices, you can check the official website. The area is also great for trail running and cycling.
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