Chalk and water

This walk explores two adjacent but very different environments: the dry chalk escarpment of the Chiltern Hills and the rich clay Vale of Oxfordshire.

Find out how chalk and water have had a major influence on this landscape in terms of the flora and fauna, as well as human settlements and the use of land. 

Discover a natural world of beech woods and juniper scrub, dry valleys and freshwater springs, wildflowers and butterflies, yellow ants and red kites.

Learn more about human activities in the area including a pre-historic settlement and a medieval castle, lords of the manor and peasant villagers, making a living from fields and woods, an ancient pathway and a modern motorway.

Be prepared for beautiful sights, spectacular views and some surprising stories.

Walk Info

Distance:

4 ½ miles

Level:

A steep descent and ascent

Suitable for:

Wildflowers, butterflies, birds and anthills to interest children

Keep dogs on a lead on roads and grazing land

Region:

South East England

Setting:

Countryside

Landscape:

Shaping the landscape Preserving the landscape Working landscapes

Start:

Cowleaze Wood car park

Finish:

Cowleaze Wood car park

Getting there:

3 miles from Junction 5 on M40