Countryside at Hughenden

Whilst Hughenden Manor has stories to tell about its Victorian past, the tales in the surrounding countryside go back much further, some 65 million years ago in fact when the chalk rock emerged from the sea and the rolling landscape began to be formed. Today’s hills, walks and woodlands are still evolving and every type of weather gives a different chapter to discover.

Take in the countryside

A wander through the woodlands and countryside sees the impact of the ever-changing seasons. Hughenden's wider estate has waymarked walks.

Our four colour coded walks range from a gentle 1 mile to a 4 mile hike and begin from the visitor welcome kiosk. They are a great way to start exploring the estate and our cafe in the stableyard makes a good start or finish point. Hughenden’s codename during the war was Hillside for good reason, most walks will include a slope or two but the reward for climbing higher is a spectacular view. Download the walk map here  or take a look at the walks section below for more information on the many routes to enjoy around the area.

Footpath sign at Hughenden
Hughenden   Buckinghamshire

Winter walks at Hughenden

Enjoy the stark landscapes and frosty vistas of the Chilterns in winter on one of the many picturesque walks through the parkland and woods surrounding Hughenden.

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Countryside conservation

The countryside around Hughenden features chalk grassland, managed farmland and acres of beech woodlands which means it is an area rich in wildlife, from red kites to rare butterflies.

Since the Second World War, the UK has lost around 80 per cent of rare grassland habitats. Monitoring the flowers, butterflies, moths and insects that make their homes here is an important part of our work and it means we can help to protect them and provide habitats and landscapes that let them thrive, reversing this decline.

Marbled white butterfly at Watlington Hill
Marbled white butterfly
Marbled white butterfly at Watlington Hill

Our team of countryside rangers is working every day to actively manage the woodlands and countryside, to maintain the walks and woodlands and to encourage the widest range of wildlife possible.