The Chess Valley Walk-Hiking Adventure

The Chess Valley has some of the most attractive countrysides in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a landscape rich in wildlife, with a long and fascinating history. Along the way, there are historic buildings and estates, water meadows, ancient field systems, and nature reserves.

The Chess is a 'chalk stream'. They are fed by groundwater, which is stored in the aquifer – layers of chalk rock which work like a sponge, soaking up water until it emerges at ground level. Regular winter rainfall is needed to recharge the aquifer and keep the chalk streams of the Chilterns flowing throughout the year.

Highlights:

Latimer House (Place). A seat of the Cavendish family and during World War 2 an interrogation center for senior prisoners of war, including Rudolf Hess. Below the house is Latimer Park Farm which from the 1st Century was the site of a Roman farm villa

Frogmore Meadows: A Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Watercress Beds, Lynchets, Meades Water Gardens

William Liberty's Tomb (One of the founders of Liberty's of London)

Hike begins: Chorleywood Station (Metropolitan Line)

Hike ends: Chesham Station (Metropolitan line)

Distance: 9-10 miles (approx)

Start time: 11.00 am

End time: 4.00 pm (approx) depends on walking speed of group

Bring a packed lunch / water etc...

Depending on the weather, parts of this walk can be very muddy so wear proper hiking shoes / boots

We will be walking through fields of sheep, horses, ponies

After the walk we will retire to the The George & Dragon Pub

Meetup fee: £5

Cancellations:

Please note that unless the trip is cancelled the payments are non-refundable as the costs need to be paid in advance. However, you may be able to sell your place to your friends or other group members.