About
Perched on the northern edge of the Chiltern Hills, Wendover Woods is one of Buckinghamshire’s most beloved outdoor escapes. Spanning approximately 325 hectares, this mixed woodland managed by Forestry England offers something for everyone. From peaceful walks and family adventures to adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you’re planning a gentle stroll, a full-on day out with the kids, or a quiet moment of wildlife spotting, Wendover Woods is the perfect destination.
Trails & Walks
Wendover Woods is packed with waymarked trails of varying lengths and difficulties. For families and younger children, the Play Trail is ideal: a surfaced 1 km loop (with a shorter 600 m shortcut) dotted with imaginative play structures inspired by nature. There are benches scattered along the way, perfect for stopping to catch your breath or enjoy a snack with a view.
If you’re after a slightly longer walk, the Feel-Good Forest Trail winds through uneven forest paths, looping past our Gruffalo sculpture before returning near the café. For those wanting to soak up some history, the Hill Fort Trail leads you around the remains of an Iron Age hill fort, the ancient Boddington Hill Fort, along a 3 km route of mixed but relatively flat terrain.
For more panoramic views, try the Firecrest Trail, a 3-mile route named after one of the woodland’s smallest and most elusive birds. It is a breathtaking trail, that gets better each time you walk it.
Wildlife & Landscape
The woodland is rich in biodiversity. In spring, it bursts into a bluebell carpet. By autumn, the trees glow with vibrant colors. Birdwatchers may be rewarded with a sighting of the fire crest, one of Europe’s tiniest birds, or even three types of deer fluttering through the undergrowth. The area also includes the summit of Haddington Hill, which, at 267 m, is the highest point in the Chilterns.
Archaeology lovers will appreciate the remains of Boddington Hill Fort, strategically perched within the forest, offering a fascinating link to the area’s ancient past.
Activities & Adventure
If you’re looking for active fun, Wendover Woods delivers plenty:
- Disc Golf: Bring your own discs or hire them from the site’s Information Point (currently £3.50 per disc, or £12 for four). There’s a 9-hole course mapped out through the trees, with both “blue tee” (1.5 km) and “red tee” (1 km) variations the perfect way to combine forest walking with a light-hearted competitive game.
- Go Ape: For high-rope thrills, Go Ape’s treetop adventure courses let you swing between the woodland canopy.
- Laser Tag: Available on weekends, these sessions run multiple times a day from the Information Point, making it a fun, immersive activity for families.
- Orienteering / Gruffalo Trail: Families can pick up a Gruffalo map for just £1 and challenge themselves to find hidden markers, combining navigation skills with woodland exploration.
Café, Amenities & Visitor Facilities
At the heart of the woods lies the Wendover Woods Café, which opens daily from 8:30 am. Run by a friendly team, the café offers wholesome, locally sourced food, freshly baked pastries, and a range of dietary options (vegetarian, vegan, gluten- and dairy-free). Indoor and outdoor seating provide lovely views over the Chilterns, making it a natural base for a break before or after your forest adventures.
The site also features accessible facilities: there are wide, gently sloping paths leading from the car park to the café, accessible toilets (including changing places), and several seating areas tailored for wheelchair users.
Retail
Despite not having a gift shop on site, Wendover still offers a wide range of retail products. From Gruffalo key rings to Stickman Christmas books. Wendover also sells different packs and maps to inspire children along with their walks, like the Gruffalo sculpture map or the Christmas stickman pack.
Events & Wellbeing
Wendover Woods is more than just a forest; it’s a hub for community and wellness. Regular events take place at Wendover from Tai Chi and Yoga to larger scale running events and parkrun, helping visitors connect with nature in a mindful way.
Why Visit Wendover Woods?
- Versatility: Whether you’re visiting as a family, with friends, or solo, there’s a mix of relaxation and adventure.
- Accessibility: With surfaced trails, accessible toilets, and easy access from the car park, many of the woodland highlights are reachable for all. We also have two mobility scooters available to hire for free.
- All-season appeal: From spring blossoms to fiery autumn leaves, and quiet winter walks, Wendover Woods has year-round charm.
- Wildlife & heritage: With rare birds, deer, ancient hill forts, and the highest hill in the Chilterns, there’s natural beauty and history at every turn.
Practical Info
How to get there: The woods is based at Upper Icknield Way, Aston Clinton (postcode HP22 5NQ).
- Parking: There’s a car park by the Visitor Information Point. Payment is cashless.
- Opening Times: The forest gates open at 08:00 and close at 17:00. The closing time will change to 19:00 during warmer months.
Wendover Woods is a gem in Buckinghamshire, a place where gentle woodland paths, family play, high-rope adventures, and peaceful wildlife spotting coexist beautifully. It offers a fresh-air escape that’s equally suited to a relaxing afternoon or an action-packed day out.
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