Chilterns Cycleway
The Chilterns Cycleway is a 170 mile circular route passing right around the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Over 95% of the route is on-road (mostly following minor roads), with just a few sections following towpaths, surfaced cycle lanes and bridleways.
See historic villages and lively market towns, stop at one of the many country pubs or National Trust properties along the route or simply enjoy the wonderful views. The Chilterns Cycleway passes through Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, taking in some of the best landscapes in these counties.
Postcode
RG9 1NPAccessibility/terrain/walk info
Cyclists with slick road-bikes should be aware of the few unsurfaced sections which can be rutted and muddy and unsuitable for ‘skinny tyres’; cyclists can either push their bikes along these sections or follow an on-road alternative.
The Chilterns Hills are by definition hilly!! The route is undulating with some steep climbs and descents in places. This, combined with the fact that there are a few busy sections of road along the route, makes it unsuitable for novices. Cyclists will need a reasonable level of fitness and experience of cycling on roads with traffic.
Although the Cycleway follows minor roads as much as possible, traffic can be heavy at rush-hour. We strongly advise you avoid cycling at rush-hour (7.00-9.30am and 4.00-6.30pm).
The Chilterns Cycleway guide book provides detailed route information for each section of the Cycleway, alerting cyclists to safety issues such as busy road junctions, sections which are especially prone to rush-hour traffic or very steep gradients.
Facilities & accessibility
There is a good range and provision of accommodation and pubs along the route. The interactive map on our web site allows you to search for accommodation and services along the Chilterns Cycleway.
A number of B&Bs have achieved the Tourist Board Cyclists are Welcome accreditation, those are flagged up in the accommodation section.
There are a few venues which have the capacity to accommodate groups of cyclists in splendid locations with lots of character. These are ideal locations for group holidays:
Parmoor House can accommodate up to 36 (B&B). Camping also available.
Braziers Park can accommodate up to 27 (B&B). Camping also available.
Tourism Information offices are located at a number of towns on or close to the Cycleway (see below). Other useful visitor information can be found on our Links page.
| Tourist Information | Telephone |
|---|---|
| Marlow | 01628 483597 |
| Wendover | 01296 696759 |
| Princes Risborough | 01844 274795 |
| Henley on Thames | 01491 578034 |
| Wallingford | 01491 826972 |
| Tring | 01442 823347 |
| Harpenden | 01582 768278 |