Walking route from Bourne End to Cliveden
If you're coming to Cliveden by public transport this walk offers a pleasant route through the countryside from Bourne End railway station. At just over 2 miles (one way) you'll follow pavements and public footpaths whilst glimpsing some of the local landmarks.
Map
Start:
Bourne End railway station, grid ref: SU893873
1
Turn right out of Bourne End railway station and follow the road straight ahead. You will pass St. Mark's Church on your left (on the opposite side of the road)
Bourne End
Bourne End railway station first opened in 1854. Previously known as 'Marlow Road station' it was renamed in 1874 to avoid confusion with the newly opened 'Marlow station' nearby. Originally linking Bourne End to High Wycombe, British Rail closed this line in May 1970. Nowadays, trains from Slough, Maidenhead, Marlow and London Paddington all stop here. If you turn left out of the station, you will find Bourne End village centre with its parade of shops.
2
Continue along the same road until you see the Walnut Tree pub on the other side of the road. Cross here and continue to follow the road in the same direction.
3
Follow the road around the left hand bend and take the first turning on your left, named Hedsor Road.
4
After a short distance (approximately 100m) you will reach a large traffic safety mirror on the opposite side of the road and entrance to 'Hollands Farm' on your left. Cross the road here and follow the 'public footpath' sign through the kissing gate. Please note, if you reach Flowerland Garden Centre on your right you have gone too far.
5
Walk down the wide grass track in front of you. If you look out over the paddocks to your left you will catch your first glimpses of Cliveden in the distance. The golden face of the clock tower and Spirit of Liberty statue can be seen just above the tree line.
The clock tower
Cliveden's 100ft (30m) clock tower was built in 1861 and is the work of architect Henry Clutton. As a functioning water tower it still provides water for the house today. Perched on top is the golden ‘Spirit of Liberty’ statue; a winged nude, stood on one foot holding the torch of civilisation in one hand and the remains of his broken chains in the other. The current statue is a recreation of the 1860s original, which was damaged beyond repair when it fell from the tower during a storm in the mid-20th century.
6
After approximately 240m the wide track will open out into a field. From here, bear left and follow the marked footpath, passing the pumping station on your left. Continue to follow this path with the hedge directly on your left at all times.
7
When the hedge turns sharp left, keep walking straight ahead, following the footpath towards the corner of the field. In front of you in the distance you will see Hedsor House and just off to the left is St. Nicholas Parish Church, set in the Hedsor estate.
Hedsor House
Hedsor House, set in a 100 acre estate was originally home to the de Hedsor family, who owned it in 1086 at the time of the Domesday Book. The grand house you see today was built in 1778 and overlooks the River Thames and surrounding Berkshire countryside. It was once owned by Princess Augusta of Wales and visitors have included King George III and Queen Victoria. It is now run as a private venue for weddings, filming and events.
8
At the junction, bear left and go through the kissing gate. Cross the narrow footbridge over the stream and follow the gravel footpath. Go through the small black gate at the end of the footpath and walk straight ahead, passing private driveways on either side. After approximately 150m, walk straight up the wooden edged steps in front of you.
9
Climb up the steps and continue walking uphill, following the narrow footpath through the trees and with the wire fence on your right. After approximately 650m you will reach the road at the top of the hill where the public footpath terminates. With caution, turn right on to the road and join the grass verge as soon as possible (after approximately 20m). Please note, depending on the time of year, the grass here may be very long.
10
After approximately 300m, you'll pass the hotel Hedsor Gate entrance on your right. Continue straight along the boundary wall (400m) until you reach the junction, where you'll keep right on to Cliveden road until you reach the Feathers Gate entrance, opposite the Feathers Pub. Enter through the pedestrian gates and walk on the path until you reach the Welcome Hut, where you'll need to purchase your admission ticket or show your National Trust membership card.
Take a break...
After checking in at the information centre, why not treat yourself to a well-deserved break. Enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon tea at the Dovecote coffee house, with a selection of sandwiches and delicious snacks to choose from. Next door, the Orangery café serves a seasonal menu of home-cooked lunches.
11
To return to Bourne End station, simply retrace your steps.
End:
Cliveden main car park, grid ref: SU910856
