Watlington to Wendover

Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)

Section Overview

The next section of the Ridgeway offers a classic Chilterns experience, combining long stretches through ancient beech woods, panoramic chalk ridges, and a series of Iron Age hillforts. From the historic market town of Watlington, the trail climbs steadily back onto the Chiltern Hills, weaving through a mixture of woodland and open farmland. Along the way, you’ll encounter Grim’s Ditch again, pass through nature reserves rich in wildlife, and enjoy superb views across the Vale of Aylesbury. The walk ends in Wendover, a bustling small town with good facilities and transport links, making it a natural break point on the trail.

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Starting from Watlington

The route begins in Watlington, a lovely market town with pubs, shops, and the striking Watlington White Mark cut into the hillside above. Leaving town, the Ridgeway climbs back onto the chalk hills, offering fine views as you rejoin the wooded ridges. This first ascent is reflective of the rest of the route, where you’ll find a nice balance between climbs through beech-clad slopes and gentler stretches across open ground.

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Through the Chiltern Hills

Once on the ridge, the path threads through a mix of woodland tracks and open grassland. The beech woods are a defining feature of this section, with tall trees and paths lined with chalk and flint. These woods are home to deer, red kites, and a rich carpet of bluebells in spring. Emerging from the trees, the Ridgeway opens onto ridges and farmland, offering superb views across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

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Some Key Points of Interest

Chalk grasslands: The Chiltern escarpment is dotted with nature reserves, home to orchids, butterflies, and red kites circling overhead.

Cholesbury and Pulpit Hill: Two prominent Iron Age hillforts on the route, offering commanding views and a strong sense of the ancient past.

Chequers Estate: The trail passes close to the Prime Minister’s country residence, set in rolling parkland at the foot of the escarpment. Though not open to the public, the estate is a notable landmark.

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Entering Wendover

The final stretch of the walk follows the Chiltern escarpment with excellent views over the Vale of Aylesbury. The descent into Wendover feels welcoming after a long day, with the town providing pubs, cafés, shops, and accommodation. Wendover’s railway station makes it a convenient stop, with trains to London, Aylesbury, and beyond.

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