We are the Chiltern Young Walkers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
A 9.5-mile circular walk through Cookham and along the River Thames, featuring woodland, farmland and village lanes that inspired Kenneth Grahame’s 1908 classic “The Wind in the Willows” and its characters - Toad, Mole, Ratty and Badger.
Departing Cookham station we’ll initially head through farmland, skirting around Strand Water where we will pass a bear eating ice cream. After following the River Thames for a mile or so it’s our first (not very strenuous) climb of the day up Winter Hill. We will pause for lunch at the top of the hill and will also experience views of the surrounding area.
After lunch it’s into Bisham Woods (inspiration for “Wild Wood”) - a colourful, ancient woodland site with abundant and rare flora, a wide variety of tree species and some fascinating wildlife. After leaving the woods we will pass across Cookham Dean Common and subject to the weather and space in the garden stop at the Jolly Farmer pub for refreshments. From here it is then just over a mile back to the station.
Although it cannot possibly be any muddier than my recent walk from Hurley, the woodland areas may still be slightly muddy in places, particularly after rain so please come prepared.
Meet outside Cookham Station entrance. Parking is available at the station (£1.80) or the Cookham Moor National Trust Car park (£2) which is a 10 minute walk away.
