Highlight • Trail
Penn Wood
Hiking
5.0
(41)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 26, 2023
Hiking
The woods are dominated by beautiful oak, beech, ash, and cherry trees with an understory of bluebells, wood anemones, and other wildflowers.
January 30, 2025
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Penn Wood
4.6
(14)
25
hikers
8.98km
02:25
110m
110m
Embark on the Penn Wood loop, a moderate hike covering 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with an elevation gain of 368 feet (112 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 24 minutes. This route guides you through one of the Chiltern Hills' largest ancient woodlands, where you'll find sensational oak, beech, ash, and cherry trees. Expect varied terrain with woodland paths of earth, fallen leaves, and gravelly tracks, offering a mix of shaded forest sections and sunlit clearings, including areas like Gravely Way Plantation. In spring, you might even see vibrant displays of bluebells and wood anemones.
When planning your visit, remember that while the paths are generally accessible, they can become muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes are advisable. The Penn Estate has ensured accessibility with a network of permissive paths throughout the wood, making it easy to explore. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is home to red kites, buzzards, dragonflies, butterflies, and even roe deer.
Penn Wood is a truly special place, designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest since 1951, and has been continuously wooded for over 400 years. It boasts more than 50 trees over 200 years old, including impressive veteran oaks. Historically, the wood was vital for the chair-making industry, with 'bodgers' crafting materials here, and today, parts are managed as wood pasture with cows grazing to maintain its traditional landscape.
4.6
(16)
114
hikers
19.5km
05:08
170m
170m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(15)
113
hikers
18.6km
04:56
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 170 m
Weather
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Thursday 7 May
18°C
5°C
3 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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