Market towns
Start exploring the Chilterns from one of our characterful market towns. Look out for independent shops, museums and trails.
There are myriad towns and villages to discover across the beautiful, rolling countryside of the Chilterns. Step back in time to historic markets, old English inns and ancient churches, or enjoy the comforts of today in stylish restaurants, boutique shops and up-market hotels. No matter on how you are travelling – by foot, train or car – there are plenty of options for getting around and seeing the highlights of these charming places
Each market town has a distinct character, influenced by its surroundings. Those alongside the River Thames offer sightseeing options on the water, while rural villages nestled in scenic spots make great stops along a hike. There are excellent local museums to visit and self-guided trails to help you get the best out of your trip. You won’t find the usual chain stores filling up the high streets, but lots of independently run shops and boutiques offering exquisite food and unique gifts.
Trip into town
Amersham
With its half-timbered houses and handsome Market Hall, Amersham is one of the most photogenic market towns in the Chilterns.
Beaconsfield
Visit the elegant streets and coaching inns of Old Beaconsfield or enjoy a day out at nearby Bekonscot Model Village.
Berkhamsted
Chic restaurants, an art-deco cinema and a mix of familiar and independent shops give Berkhamsted's high street an uplifting buzz.
Chesham
Chesham is a ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town on the Metropolitan Line. Walk through the historic streets into the Chess Valley.
Goring and Streatley
Goring and Streatley sit on opposite sides of the River Thames as it carves its way through the Chiltern Hills.
Great Missenden
Renowned children’s writer, Roald Dahl, lived in Great Missenden – visit the museum and come face-to-face with his fantastic creations.
Henley-on-Thames
Henley, the international home of rowing, enjoys a scenic setting on a broad and beautiful stretch of the River Thames.
Hitchin
Hitchin is a medieval market town with a compact centre, a pretty river frontage and streets bursting with history.
Marlow
Marlow combines natural beauty with contemporary chic. Georgian buildings and a picturesque lock set the scene for shops and restaurants.
Pangbourne
Follow the Thames Path and immerse yourself in Pangbourne's links with the idyllic world of The Wind in the Willows.
Princes Risborough
Princes Risborough is a pleasing country town, with a prosperous high street, traditional Market House and a working heritage railway.
Tring
The Rothschilds left their legacy across Tring, with distinctive buildings dotted among the shops and cafés of its intimate centre.
Wallingford
Familiar as the fictional town in Midsomer Murders, Wallingford grew up in the 9th century and is little changed today.
Watlington
The Chiltern Hills rise behind Watlington, reputedly England's smallest town. Its ancient centre appears untouched by today’s pace of life.
Wendover
Hills and woodlands are the peaceful backdrop to unspoilt Wendover town, where walking trails meet upmarket antique and chocolate shops.
West Wycombe
The tiny medieval village of West Wycombe is a Chilterns gem. Its cobbled street boasts coaching inns and traditional shops.
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