We are the Chiltern Young Walkers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
A 10 mile circular walk from the village of Hurley, encompassing the “twin peaks” of Bowsey and Ashley Hills, the latter being the 16,845th highest peak in the British Isles!
Hurley, nicknamed “Gorgeous-on-Thames” is a linear village, historically important due to the founding of a monastery in 1086. Although the monastery was dissolved in 1536, relics of the monastic buildings can still be seen incorporated in many of the private residences surrounding the small green adjacent to the church. The village is frequently used for filming, with both Midsomer Murders and Doctor Who paying visits, as well as featuring in James Bond’s ‘From Russia With Love’ back in 1963.
We start our expedition from the car park, heading towards the River Thames which we will follow for around a mile before turning off and heading south. Upon reaching Warren Row we start our first ascent along the Chiltern Way up Bowsey Hill, rising to the dizzying height of 140 metres (!). Back down the other side and it’s onto Crazies Hill where we will find a suitable spot for lunch. Disappointingly nothing to do with anything crazy, this hamlet has derived its name from the Old English word for buttercups being cragies of crazies.
We’ll skirt around Bottom Boles Wood, ascending Bowsey Hill a second time before joining the (muddy) Knowl Hill Bridleway circuit, eventually reaching Ashley Hill Forest on Ashley Hill. Ashley Hill is the 16,845th highest peak in the British Isles (3467th in England), with a peak of 145 metres (476 feet) *. There is a trig point at the summit which has been transformed into an ornament. Unfortunately it stands in the grounds of a private garden so no photo opportunity today. From here it’s plain sailing and downhill all the way back to Hurley.
For those that wish, there may be the opportunity for a post walk drink walk at The Olde Belle (weather and space depending). This Inn was founded in 1135 as the hotelry of Hurley Priory, making it one of the oldest hotels in the world. If not, the car park is a couple of hundred metres further along the road.
It is probably worth pointing out that whilst this walk does indeed have a few hills, it is not massively hilly or particularly strenuous. We are however likely to come across plenty of mud so please come prepared - I would personally not recommend brand new white trainers, particularly after rain.
* according to the mountain guide - www.themountainguide.co.uk
Parking is available in the High Street car park at the very end of the High Street on the left. This car park can get quite busy at times, however alternative parking is available in designated bays along the High Street, and also in the gaps between the double yellow lines. Please allow plenty of time to find somewhere to park and walk to the start point if required.
Hurley High Street car park at the very end of the High Street
