Summer in the Chilterns

Sociable group walking in the spectacular summer scenery of the Chilterns. Think rolling wooded hills, far-reaching views out over the fields below, and strolls along the Thames Valley.

Experience Type: Multi-Day Experience
Duration: 2 nights
Accommodation: Hostel
Group Size: Maximum 17
Level: Leisurely Plus
Age: Over 18s only
Dogs: No dogs, except trained assistance dogs

In a nutshell: 

  • Discover hidden corners and quiet spots in the Chiltern hills and along the Thames Valley.

  • Relax and let us do the route planning, map reading and hospitality.

  • Enjoy the whole social side of being in the company of a friendly bunch of like-minded people.

 

How do we grade our walks?

 

This weekend’s trip is ideal for those looking to escape London for a sneaky summer jaunt.

This weekend’s trip is ideal for those looking to escape London for a sneaky summer jaunt where relaxing and socalising are just as important as the great walking. The guided walks we do are easy, so although we go out for the day there are plenty of opportunities for photo stops, snack breaks, and maybe the odd pub or two!

Suggest Itinerary

Day 1

For this weekend we have exclusive use of the quirky lodge that is now a comfortable YHA in the Quaker village of Jordans near Beaconsfield.

Nestled amid woodland and surrounded by an extensive lawn, the lodge is a superbly quiet spot that makes it easy to leave behind the stresses of the week as soon as you arrive.

We are on-hand to greet you and introduce you to your fellow walking companions. As the group mingles we then busy ourselves in the kitchen to get dinner ready. This is served at 8pm.

Normally on these weekends we find that the nattering goes on late into the evening either at the dining table or, if the weather is very kind (which it will be), with the group heading outside with sundowners in-hand to watch the sunset.

Chilterns.JPG

Day 2

After breakfast we'll head out for the day to explore the stunning scenery right on our doorstep.

Across rolling hills, along tree-lined paths and up into the beech woods of the chalk escarpment that epitomizes the Chilterns, we follow trails until we reach a great tea room that serves as a useful spot to break up the journey.

Afterwards we press on to the pretty village of Coleshill passing the duck pond and windmill before turning for home along a series of quiet paths and lanes.

Once back, there’s ample time to have a mooch around the village of Jordans or stretch out on the lawn and soak up the sun before the evening gets underway.

Day 3

Today we venture out from the riverside town of Marlow for a walk along the Thames Path and Shakespeare’s Way.

This section of the Thames Path is arguably the most beautiful of the Thames Valley. The route gently meanders along the side of the river with views across to the wooded slopes of Winter Hill.

At Cookham it then passes through the National Trust’s Cock Marsh, a lowland wetland site that is an important breeding ground for wading birds.

After the walk, you might wish to join for fellow participants and pop to a local cafe or pub for one last cuppa and chance to say farewell.

Good to Know

  • Meeting Time: from 5pm
    You can arrive any time from 5pm - the Large Outdoors host will be at the accommodation to welcome you. Dinner will be served around 8pm so if you intend to arrive later than this, please ensure you have something to eat on the way.

    Venue Address:

    YHA Jordans
    Welders Ln
    Beaconsfield
    HP9 2SN

    Meeting Location:

    Nearest Train Station: The hostel is a 15-minute walk from the Seer Green train station.

    Parking: There is limited free parking at the hostel.

  • We have exclusive use of the YHA Jordan, a lovely former quaker retreat in the heart of the Chiltern woods.

    YHA Jordans
    Welders Ln
    Beaconsfield
    HP9 2SN

    Room Types:
    All rooms are Shared Rooms (you’ll be sharing a single-sex dorm room with other participants). You can book one of the following options, subject to availability:
    Bed in a Shared Female Room
    Bed in a Shared Male Room

  • Included:

    • 2 nights’ accommodation at YHA Jordans - we have taken over exclusive use of the hostel, so it will just be Large Outdoors participants staying.

    • A Large Outdoors host/guide to welcome you, deal with meal preparation and the logistics for your experience.

    • Guided walks on two days (Saturday and Sunday).

    • Home-cooked set menu 2-course dinners at the accommodation on both evenings.

    • A DIY breakfast each morning (toast, cereals, fruit and yoghurt provided).

    • A DIY packed lunch for Saturday’s walk.

    • Tea (including decaf and herbal options), coffee (including decaf option), and squash at the accommodation.

    • Bedding - but please bring a towel and don’t forget your own toiletries.

    • The chance to make new friends and meet like-minded people - Large Outdoors is all about making outdoor adventures sociable.

    • Pre-event support from the Large Outdoors team - give us a shout if there’s any advice or information you need and check out our Blog for useful articles too.

    Not Included:

    • Travel to and from the meeting location.

    • Travel from the accommodation to the walk start points and back, where walks don’t start from the door.

    • Any extra (i.e. not mentioned above in ‘Included’) excursions or activities that you may partake in which incur a cost.

    • Bottled water - tap water and squash are available at the accommodation, so please ensure you bring sufficient water bottles or carriers to fill up and take out with you.

    • Alcoholic drinks - please feel free to bring something with you to enjoy at the accommodation

    • Any food, drinks or goods you choose to purchase at any shops, restaurant, pubs or cafés visited.

    • Travel/activity insurance - we recommend having insurance to cover, at a minimum: cancellation and curtailment; medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation); personal accident; injury and death.

  • Please see our Residential (Walking) Kit List.

    The compulsory items are selected for your safety, which is of paramount importance to us at Large Outdoors. Each participant should be carrying the items listed.

  • What level of fitness is needed?
    This trip is rated as Leisurely Plus and we will be only offering one walk option on both days.

    Can I attend on my own?
    Absolutely. The majority of our participants are solo travellers and adventurers. Plenty of fun, laughter and numerous long-term friendships (and a few marriages!) have begun on Large Outdoors experiences since 2008, so there’s no need to feel worried about your first experience, or indeed trying a new type of outdoor activity, with us.

    I am currently on a specific diet / have an allergy - can you cater for me?
    Unfortunately, we are generally unable to cater for a wide variety of diets or food preferences due to the nature and cost of our catered trips and/or the use of shared kitchens. However, we can offer vegetarian, vegan, and/or provide meals with gluten free ingredients - these options can be selected when booking. 
    Please see our FAQs for more information about dietary options.

    What transport is provided during this trip?
    We do not provide any transport for this experience.

    Can I bring my dog?
    Dogs are not allowed on this trip, except for trained assistance dogs. If you wish to bring your trained assistance dog on an experience, please let us know in advance of booking so we can discuss the itinerary and any activity/equipment/accommodation, and of course additional safety requirements or considerations that may be necessary.

 Book your Summer in the Chilterns Weekend