View of Culham Court and White Deer
View of Culham Court and White Deer
Tips
July 5, 2023
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Culham Court and White Deer

4.8
(22)
91
hikers
19.3km
05:05
160m
160m
This difficult 12.0-mile (19.3 km) hike through the Chiltern Hills will take you about 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete, climbing 537 feet (164 metres) along the way. You'll find yourself walking along the River Thames, enjoying picturesque views around Hambleden Lock and Weir, a historic site mentioned by Charles Dickens. The route then leads you through the charming village of Hambleden and into the peaceful, beech-capped Pullingshill Wood, part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Expect varied terrain, including footpaths, hiking paths, and some paved sections, with stunning views over the Thames Valley from higher points like Bloom Wood.
Be prepared for a challenging experience, as this route requires a very good level of fitness. You should wear sturdy shoes, especially since some parts, particularly between Hambleden and Rotten Row, can be muddy. The trail includes two significant climbs, one out of Hambleden and another up to Marlow Common, along with several steady descents. Plan your visit to allow ample time to complete the loop comfortably, keeping in mind the varied path types.
Beyond the natural beauty, this loop offers unique historical insights. Within Pullingshill Wood, you can observe the faint remains of ditches and trenches used to train troops before World War I. The wood is also a designated site of special scientific interest, home to diverse ground flora, including the rare ghost orchid. Hambleden Lock and Weir itself has a long history, with its earliest recorded lock dating back to 1338, adding a rich historical layer to your outdoor adventure.

5.0
(6)
24
hikers
15.5km
04:00
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(4)
15
hikers
14.5km
03:53
170m
170m
Embark on the Aston to Hurley Chalk Pit loop via Culham Court, a moderate hike spanning 9.0 miles (14.5 km) with an elevation gain of 560 feet (171 metres), typically completed in about 3 hours and 52 minutes. This route guides you through varied Berkshire landscapes, from deep beech woodlands and chalk grasslands to the scenic Thames Valley. You will explore the unique Hurley Chalk Pit nature reserve, where ancient excavations have created a habitat rich in wildflowers, and pass through the picturesque deer park at Culham Court. Expect mostly accessible paths, but some sections require sure-footedness.
Planning your visit for this moderately challenging loop means being prepared for diverse terrain. While the paths are generally good, some areas can become very muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is highly recommended. The trail is open year-round, offering different highlights with each season; spring brings a display of woodland bluebells in the chalk pit. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing the trail itself, but always check local regulations for parking or specific site access.
The Aston to Hurley Chalk Pit loop is particularly notable for its rich biodiversity, especially within the Hurley Chalk Pit Nature Reserve. This area, with a history of excavation spanning over 150 years, is a haven for wildlife, boasting an impressive 15 species of butterflies and six different wild orchid species, including bee, pyramidal, and fragrant orchids. The route also offers glimpses of the Thames Path, providing views of the river and landmarks like Hambleden Lock and the Henley Royal Regatta course.
Details
Informations
Elevation 40 m
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Friday 8 May
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6°C
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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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