Exploring the Chilterns National Landscape in your Campervan
Read Time: About 20 minutes
Ivinghoe, Leighton Buzzard. Brent Jenkins
The Chilterns AONB is a National Landscape, and falls under one of 46 National Landscapes within England, Wales, and Northern Ireland that are protected and valued for their distinctive character and beauty. It is a place of undeniable beauty and inimitable character. Expect a delightful blend of ecological, geological and cultural heritage features paired with some of the finest views in England. Wander among rare chalk escarpments, soak in panoramic views, and follow age-old routes winding past hedgerows, leafy trees, orchards, and protected parkland.
Hell Fire Caves. Vaivuzhe
Previously termed an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, they hold a wealth of wildlife, diverse terrains, and lovely communities. A National Landscape is not privately owned, and is left in the care of local farmers, landowners, plus district and parish councils to work and preserve the area. Find out a little bit more about these designated areas using our growing list of 46 National Landscapes in the Uk.
Take your campervan hire to The Chilterns and can explore sleepy villages brimming with brick and flint cottages, tucked amid lush valleys, or explore historic hillforts in beautiful ancient beech woodlands, surrounded by verdant meadows. Stay a night (or two) at our fantastic Chilterns campsites, and wake up to some of the most beautiful views in the UK. Unwind, unplug from the modern world, and make the most of your campervan journey through The Chilterns National Landscape.
- What is The Chilterns Area of Outstanding National Beauty?
- Best Campsites at Chiltern National Landscape
- How To Get To The Chiltern Hills in a Campervan
- How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From London
- How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Birmingham
- How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Bristol
- How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Leicester
- How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Southampton
- Your Campervan Guide To Visiting The Chilterns National Landscape
- What are The Chilterns Famous For?
- Where Can I Picnic in The Chilterns?
- What is The Most Beautiful Town in The Chilterns?
- What Is The Highest Point In The Chilterns?
- Chilterns National Landscape Campervan Road Trip Map
- Wild Camping Chiltern
- Glamping Chilterns
- Chiltern Hills Waterfall
- Chilterns Campervan Hire Price
What is The Chilterns Area of Outstanding National Beauty?
The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a designated landscape in England that spans approximately 324 square miles and extends across four counties: Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire. It was officially designated as an AONB in 1965, and recognised for its significant natural and cultural heritage.
Coombe Hill. Rogerburlinson
Nature lovers can spend hours amid The Chilterns' ancient woodland, including The Chilterns Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation. Wander amid leafy and old wood pasture and explore villages with distinctive cottages made of clay titles, flint and local brick. Mediaeval churches and stately homes set in sprawling parkland provide a look at the region's past, and are great for relaxing strolls. The Chilterns is also one of the most accessible National Landscapes. Hop on the tube from London, or take a bus or train from the urban areas around its boundaries. Explore a beautiful protected area extending over 324 square miles of common land, heaths, and greens, all brimming with varied wildlife. Walkers can access over 2,000 km of rights of way, including the national paths of Ridgeway and Thames, the regional routes of The Chiltern Way and The Chilterns Cycleway, plus a wealth of ancient routes like the Icknield Way. There are several pubs, cafes, and farm shops along the way for when you feel like resting your feet and sipping on a cold drink.
The Chilterns was designated as an AONB in 1965, and its status as a National Landscape highlights its significant natural and cultural value, as well as effort and commitment taken to preserve its unique beauty and character for future generations.
Best Campsites at The Chilterns National Landscape
Are you wondering where to camp in your campervan while you explore the stunning landscapes of The Chilterns AONB? Why not take a look at our campsite recommendations below? We’re confident these campsites have the perfect combination of amenities, views and access to make it a wonderful base for both relaxation and adventure.
Home Farm Camping is a lovely site with hillside views and exceptional glamping plus camping facilities. Little Acre is a fab site for families who want a blend of peace and convenience, with quick access to pubs and shops. Bella Vista rests in the AONB and is a prime location for spotting red kites and other birdlife. Visit our main page or more campsites in the UK.
Home Farm Campsite, High Wycombe
You’ll really feel at home at Home Farm Camping, a beautiful campsite with spectacular views of the enclosing hills, and oodles of open space for lounging, lazing, land lubbering. Hop on excellent walks Ridgeway Path and Icknield Way, or let the budding nature lovers admire soaring red kites, gliding over the site. Pop over to the historic West Wycombe Village, and take a quick drive to the popular Hell Fire Caves. The site is a great base for exploring Oxford and the River Thames, and welcomes tents, touring caravans, motorhomes, and campervans. Glampers can live it up in glamping bell tents with sleeping space for 5. A wonderful addition of Shepherd’s huts delight with cosy camping for two. Standard amenities are available, and there is ample space on and off the site to exercise your canine companions.
Bella Vista Camping, High Wycombe
Mosey over to Bella Vista Camping, a lovely spot for families in The Chilterns, welcoming campers who want nothing more than to sit back with a sigh of contentment and admire stunning countryside views. The site is well-positioned for all kinds of outdoorsy adventures, so get ready to fill your holiday with adventures and explores. The closest pub is a five minute stroll away, and there are heaps of parks and playgrounds nearby if you want to tire out the wee ones before bed. Explore famous attractions like the Hell Fire Caves, Legoland and Thorpe Park with ease, or lace up your walking shoes and explore beautiful routes crisscrossing the surrounding area. If you’d rather sit back and laze on your campsite, why not stock up on tipples at the Rebellion Brewery or the Dawes Hill Vineyard, and spend a lazy day browning meats and other sizzles on the grill?
Burcot Brook Lodge, Abingdon
Burcot Brook Lodge is another cracking Certificated Location on the fringes of Dorchester on Thames. The site is green and well-maintained, and has plenty of space on a well-drained field to stretch out and admire the scenery. There’s plenty to explore in the area too. Take a 15 minute walk to Dorchester on Thames, and explore the filming locations of Midsomer Murders. If you’re hungry, The Chequers Gastropub just five minutes away is perfect for a bite after a well-spent day of sightseeing. The friendly owners welcome campers to pick a spot to set up their vehicles and understand the little grills that come with parking away from the other guests. Spot red kites flying overhead, and let your canines make friends with the pet-friendly owners.
How To Get To The Chiltern Hills in a Campervan
Ashridge Estate. Markbaldwin._
We’re about to get right into the spectacular greenery of The Chilterns National Landscape. You’ve got an itinerary in place and now it's time to secure arguably the most important item for your road trip - a campervan hire. Take a look at our campervan hire locations below highlighting the fastest drives from the largest cities to the open landscapes of The Chilterns. Our list includes the quickest routes from London, Birmingham, Bristol, Leicester, and Southampton to The Chilterns National Landscape. Landlubber can swap the fast pace life of the city for the tranquillity of the mountains with our fab campervans for hire, all within easy reach of the cosmopolitan city. Each city has a list of convenient campervan hire locations, making it easy to find friendly private campervan owners near you. We’ve also included the fastest routes from the big cities to The Chilterns, including the approximate driving time and overall distance to reach The Chilterns. Read on to find the best hire location for you.
How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From London
If you’re wondering how to get into The Chiltern Hills, there are several routes that are ideal for getting there by campervan. The drive from London to The Chilterns takes 97 mins, however this may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. A relatively short drive over 44.5 miles, makes it an ideal escape over the weekend or bank holidays, yet offers an abundance of attraction to fill an entire week. For day trips, take the A40 and M40 in your car, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. For alternate driving routes, use the via M4 or the A40 and A413, which usually takes between one and a half to two hours to complete. Check our campervan hire London page for options.
Age: 23-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Automatic
Our beautiful retro VW T25 campervan Frieda is ready and waiting to be your holiday friend and provider. She's in perfect working order after many years of love, care and significant investment!
How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Birmingham
Wendover Woods. Rewilde__
Turning to the Chiltern Hills from Birmingham? The drive takes 109 mins and the best route would be the M40, which covers 85 Miles. Drivers can also hop on a combination of the M40 and the A418, and be right in the midst of gorgeous open greenery in two hours or less. Birmingham's proximity to The Chiltern makes it a wonderful base for weekends and bank holiday trips, and there’s plenty to explore, even if you decide to spend more than a few days on-site. You can also combine a visit to The Chilterns with a lovely coastal road trip to Cornwall, and enjoy the thrills of both the mountains and golden sand beaches. We have a long list of campervan hire Birmingham, plus fab campervan hire locations nearby, like Sutton Coldfield campervans, Halesowen campervans, and Romsley campervans.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Smalls is a micro camper built inside a Nissan NV. Although small to drive, this van has a surprising amount of space making it a great option for first time van-explorers.
How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Bristol
Hughenden National Trust. Hannlous
If Bristol is your starting point for a road trip to The Chilterns, your fastest route by car is the M4. The drive should take approximately 109 mins and covers 122 miles. Visitors can also use a combination of the M4 and A420 route or the M5 and the A40 to reach The Chilterns AONB in approximately two and a half hours. The city is quite close to Chilterns, making it a great base for weekend escape, but of course there’s more to explore nearby, Quantock Hills AONB. We have written more about the Quantock Hills on our Somerset road trip. Our Campervan hire Bristol page shows campervans ideal for reaching The Chilterns with ease, and make for a perfect for weekend getaways or longer trips through England. For more nearby campervan hire locations, check campervans in Temple Meads, campervans in Lawrence Hill, and campervans in Barton Hill.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Reg is a Volkswagen T5 Transporter Conversion in Midnight Blue. He's got 3 Seats up front, sleeps 2 on a Rock n Roll bed, and offers the added headspace of a Pop-up roof. Enjoy life on the road with his built in fridge, sink with running water, and double gas hob.
How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Leicester
Are you kicking off your journey in Leicester? Your easiest drive would be via the M40, which should take 105 mins. The M1, or a combination of the M1 and the A43, are also great options for driving in a Leicester campervan hire, and the drive covers 95 miles. Leicester’s is pretty close to The Chilterns which is perfect for a quick weekend break, but as always, feel free to explore the area on a longer holiday.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
GIOTTILINE T37 With Italian design and style. This is the perfect Motorhome if you appreciate a bit of Luxury. Perfect for a week or two away. It has a large garage and loads of storage. It's also low profile which makes it easier to drive and really good on fuel.
How To Get To The Chilterns National Landscape From Southampton
Southampton is another convenient base for a campervan trip to The Chilterns. The shortest route, via the M3, should take approximately 144 mins, making a road trip to The Chilterns a great option for a quick escape from the city. You can also hire a campervan in Southampton, and make your way down the M3 plus A33 or the M3 and M25. Each route takes approximately two hours to reach The Chilterns, and we have some great locations to hire a campervan in Netley, campervan in Ashurst, and campervan in Fareham.
Age: 21-70
Travel: Local Area Only
Gearbox: Manual
Morris J Camper Van for Self-Drive Hire. Enjoy a traditional British camping holiday in our iconic berth Morris J Camper Van. Our vanishingly rare Morris Camper Van is available for overnight hire for short breaks in the New Forest.
Your Campervan Guide To Visiting The Chilterns National Landscape
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. Roalddahlmuseum
A lot of hard work and research goes into planning a holiday. We’ve compiled a list of FAQ’s to help our readers organise a road trip through The Chilterns with ease. With our campsite and campervan recommendations, handy map, and helpful pointers, you’re likely finalising your holiday plans in a day or less.
We’ll look into the most commonly asked questions about the Chiltern Hills, including its prettiest town (spoiler alert: there’s more than one), the best spots to camp, places to stretch out a blanket for a picnic, and more. Use our guide to explore the highest point in The Chilterns, explore local waterfalls,and how much a campervan hire will cost per night. If you want to know more about The Chilterns yet dont have alot of time to research, just read through our questions of the Chiltern Hills.
What are The Chilterns Famous For?
Ivinghoe Beacon. Marc_Boult
The Chilterns is a treasure trove of pretty villages, crumbling castles, excellent walking routes, and some of the finest views in the country. There’s few places that offer such a fantastic selection of rolling chalk hills, woodlands, and picturesque valleys. The landscape offers breathtaking vistas, particularly from viewpoints like Ivinghoe Beacon and Coombe Hill, making it an ideal location for a drive in your Chilterns campervan hire. Chalk streams like the River Misbourne and the River Chess are hard to come by, and support a diverse range of aquatic wildlife. Those who love leafy surroundings can escape among ancient beech woodlands like Ashridge Estate and Wendover Woods, which are particularly stunning in autumn when the leaves turn golden. A rich variety of wildlife, including rare butterflies, birds of prey, and elusive mammals such as deer and badger thrive in this protected area, and are ideal for animal lovers. Charming historic villages featuring traditional architecture, thatched cottages, and mediaeval churches are a delight to explore. You can also book a vehicle in several of The Chilterns notable villages.
Where Can I Picnic in The Chilterns?
Chiltern Hills. Kate_Flaneur
If you’re looking for a place to set down your blanket and well-stocked wicker basket, we might have a few suggestions. Hughenden Manor near High Wycombe is quiet and beautiful, offering the facilities of a wooden playground for the kids, an elegant courtyard cafe, and a shop. Enjoy exploring red brick splendour on 680 acres of manicured grounds with views of the gorgeous Hughenden Valley beneath. The best spot for picnics is the east slope, which boasts far reaching vistas over the valley and the Chiltern Hills, and is a great spot for the kids who can spill down the gently sloping hills and head home with happy souls plus numerous grass stains. The picnic area is pet-friendly and offers ample shade on sunny days.
For more alfresco spreads, mosey over to Wendover Woods, and spread out the goods from your picnic basket and enjoy lovely views overlooking Aylesbury and Chequers. Enjoy a post-picnic photo taking stroll or head over to Hughenden Manor for a walk.
Dunstable Downs. Markrich5000
Coombe Hills, the highest point on The Chilterns, is great for admiring extensive views across the Vale of Aylesbury. The hills are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and home to over 30 wildflower species and 28 species of butterfly. Visit during summer for carpets of bluebells, and follow an accessible route to Boer War Monument and viewpoint to work up an appetite. The flat chalkland is ideal for picnics, and there is a dedicated picnic area by the car park as well. For those looking to extend their visit, there are several campsites in London and the surrounding areas that provide easy access to these stunning natural landscapes.
The Dunstable Downs is the highest point in Bedfordshire, home to one of the best-known viewpoints on the Ridgeway, and a fab spot for flying kites, walking and picnicking. Check out our campervan hire Bedfordshire if you want to begin your road trip here. The Chilterns Gateway Centre has a cafe, accessible toilets, and a shop, plus wheelchair access from the centre over the Downs.
Book a campsite in Henley-on-Thames and spend a relaxing time at the Warburg Nature Reserve, ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying a relaxing munch. Set down your blanket in the picnic area after a walk through the Beech Woods, spotting an array of orchids along the way. The site has a small visitor centre, accessible toilets, and beautiful wildlife trails.
What is The Most Beautiful Town in The Chilterns?
Warburg Nature Reserve. H.U.g.h_W
Finding just one beautiful town in The Chilterns is near impossible, as each town and village enjoys individual appeal, ranging from historic architecture, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. STep back in time as you explore old English inns, admire the stained glass artwork in ancient churches, or sit down to a scrumptious meal at a local restaurant. The settlements character is influenced by its history and surroundings, with towns along the River Thames providing waterside exploits, and rural villages providing a viewsome spot to stop on a walk or while cycling through the landscape.
Turville
Explore Turville, famed for its appearance in films and television series, It is a quintessential English village with traditional brick and flint cottages, a mediaeval church, and a gorgeous setting, enclosed by rolling hills and farmland. Such spectacular settings are ideal for those who want to relax at a Turville campsite.
Hambleden
Hambleden is known for its picturesque location along the River Thames, lined with historic houses and a beautiful church. The village retains a timeless charm with its well-preserved cottages and village green.
Home Farm Campsite is 4 miles from Turville and enjoys a fabulous location, tucked away in the Chiltern Hills, with stunning views over the surrounding landscape and the conveniences of a country pub right on the doorstep.
Great Missenden
Great Missenden combines historic buildings with a vibrant cultural scene. The village is home to the renowned children's author Roald Dahl, and traditional architecture, including Georgian and Victorian houses. It offers attractions such as the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre.
Wendover
Positioned at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, vibrant Wendover is a market town surrounded by beautiful countryside. It boasts a blend of historic and modern architecture, peppered with cafes, and a shimmering canal ideal for relaxing waterside strolls. Speak to private owners, and hire a campervan in Wendover if you plan on exploring the local area.
Amersham
Divided into Old Amersham and Amersham-on-the-Hill, Amersham is a historic market town featuring timber-framed buildings, a medieval church, and lovely streets. Old Amersham in particular retains much of its historic character and is a delight to explore on a lazy day.
Hemley on Thames
While technically just outside The Chilterns, Henley-on-Thames is a charming riverside town known for its regatta and Georgian architecture. It sits on the edge of The Chilterns and offers a picturesque setting along the River Thames.
What Is The Highest Point In The Chilterns?
Haddington Hill. Alexbedingfield
The highest point in the Chiltern Hills is Haddington Hill, which stands at 267 metres (876 feet) above sea level. Book a campervan in Buckinghamshire for your drive to this imposing peak, located near Wendover, and perhaps enjoy a stroll through Wendover Woods while you’re there. It’s a great space to soak in panoramic views over the countryside and is a popular destination for walkers plus hikers exploring The Chilterns. You can also stay at a campsite in Buckinghamshire if you’re keen on spending a few days in The Chilterns.
Chilterns National Landscape Campervan Road Trip Map
Follow our campervan journey through The Chilterns National Landscape and make it a part of your road trip through England. Use our map below and follow along as we escape the cities for greenery and a slower pace of life, and check out our campsites in The Chilterns for the best views around.
Wild Camping Chiltern
Chiltern Hills. Kate_Flaneur
Keen to escape the modern world and settle in for a rustic camping stay? Hop over to Chiltern Retreat Rural Camping, a lovely campsite set on 8 acres in the village of Village, just above the beautiful Hambleden Valley. The field has lovely views and a separate woodland area where campers can retreat in complete tranquillity. Head out and explore miles of footpaths and bridleways, or make the most of the massive, beautiful secluded camping pitches by stretching out and doing absolutely nothing at all. Each plot comes with a picnic bench and table, a firepit and some free firewood. There are no electric metre” however, depending on your camping field, you may have access to a kitchen block with fridges. Camp in the woods, or camp in open space and enjoy a wild camping holiday in Chilterns with plenty of space between each pitch.
A glorious backdrop of rolling fields, woodlands, and meadows delight campers at Chiltern Retreat Rural Camping. The site rests in a secluded spot, concealed amid the stunning natural beauty of the Chiltern Hills.
Ridgeway National Trail. Absoluteescapes
Corner Farm campsite is another fan site for tent campers in The Chilterns, who want to spread out in lush settings. Tucked in the Chiltern Hills, Corner Farm Campsite rests on the fringes of picturesque hamlets, and is close to the bustle of Wendover. A sprawling woodland area behind the site affords stunning rural views in every direction, and is a hot spot for the outdoorsy types who like walking, cycling, and horse riding. Hop on the The Ridgeway National Trail, less than a mile from the campsite, or sit back and listen to the sounds of nature from your spacious pitch. A petrol station and a shop are just 2 miles away, and local amenities are available in Wendover. Combine a stay here with a campervan hire in Great Missenden, and you’re all sorted for a relaxing holiday.
Glamping Chilterns
Hambleden Valley. Thecuriouspixie
If you like to enjoy a few luxuries on the road, then you might enjoy kicking back at our Chilterns Glamping sites. Aldenham Country Park is a fab spot for touring and glamping escapes.Pitch your own tent or take your pick of spacious pre-erected bell tents that are a welcome sight after a long drive. The site offers a range of home comforts and welcomes campers and glamper to park by their tents and at no extra cost. Fuzzy’s Farm is perfect for travelling those hiring a campervan in Hemel Hempstead and campervan in Berkhamsted. Kick back in a brand new, fully insulated wooden cabin, and enjoy conveniences like heating, a fridge, electricity, plus all crockery and cutlery for 5 persons. If you like Harry Potter and hot tubs, you’ll love your stay at North Hill Farm, a spacious glamping site in the heart of the Chess Valley countryside.
The site has a range of quickie glamping options, including a shepherd’s hut, a tree house, a lodge, and a disc pod. Orchard View Farm Camping is yet another cracking glamping site in The Chilterns, resting on a quiet working farm with exceptional amenities, fire pits for the kids, and a stunning location. Let out a sigh of contentment from your beautifully crafted camping pod, with a double bed, tables and chairs for two, lighting, charging for small devices, and a lovely landscaped area with a picnic table and a firepit. The Chilterns has an array of exceptional glamping options for all budgets.
Ah, what peaceful stays await at Orchard View Farm Camping, a splendid spot for campers in Buckinghamshire and The Chilterns. Why be torn from your dreams to the jarring jangle of an alarm when you can awaken at a pace of choice to the golden sunshine washing the Chiltern Hills in a delicious amber hue, accompanied by the gentle murmur of deer, sheep and pigs on a small working farm.
Chiltern Hills Waterfall
Chiltern Hills. James Emmans
The Chilterns, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a fine spot for getting out and stretching your legs amid spectacular landscapes. With hills and woodlands, waterfalls and winsome villages, it’s no secret that this stunning area is a favourite with nature lovers, and holidaymakers who want nothing more than to get away from it all.
While not a traditional waterfall, Hambleden Mill, approximately 30-0 minutes away via the A4010, offers a beautiful spot where the Hambleden Brook meets the River Thames, creating a series of weirs and cascades. Take a lovely walk through Hambleden Valley and explore charming villages, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside. Book a campsite in Hambleden to make the most of your waterfall adventures.
Chilterns Campervan Hire Price
Campervan hires in The Chilterns are as easy as pie with Camperbug. Head over to the Camperbug website, add in your location of hire near The Chilterns, and let the system come up with the best campervan hire options for you. We have a range of models, varying in make and features, so go ahead and turn heads in a classy T2, or enjoy the numerous comforts of a lovingly converted van. Our campervans in The Chilterns start at £60 per night, and can be driven both in England and beyond.
Wrapping Up Our Journey Through The Chilterns National Landscape
Hambleden Mill. Acwebb303
And there we have it! A memorable holiday in a stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, complete with a range of campervan hire locations, and our top picks for camping in The Chilterns. We hope we’ve made it easier for you to plan an itinerary to the Chiltern, and we look forward to crafting more exciting campervan road trips in England and the rest of the UK. We’ve answered the most common questions about The Chilterns, provided easy driving routes from the major cities, and highlighted the campsite we would camp at in a heartbeat.
We’ve made an in depth guide to all the National Landscapes in the UK, so go ahead and add one (or more) to your road trip through The Chilterns. If you’re curious about what stunning landscape we explore, we’re happy to share it right here - Clwydian Range and Dee Valley!
Recent Blog Role
Back to blog listSome of the recent articles on Camperbug
Exploring Cornwall's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in your Campervan
Explore Cornwall's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in your campervan! Discover top campsites and enjoy the scenic landscapes of Cornwall. Perfect for adventurers
Go Deeper (18 min read) →An itinerary for Exploring Hawkshead in a Campervan
Explore Hawkshead, Cumbria in a campervan with our detailed itinerary. Discover scenic routes, top campsites, and must-visit spots for an unforgettable adventure.
Go Deeper (15 min read) →Exploring Glen Affric by Campervan the Best Campsites and Places to Visit
Discover Glen Affric in the Scottish Highlands by campervan: the best campsites, stunning landscapes, and must-visit spots for an unforgettable adventure
Go Deeper (15 min read) →


