Tiny UK countryside village with cosy pubs, lovely walks and easy transport links
- UK Hidden Gems
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
When you picture a countryside escape, you might imagine long car journeys along bumpy rural roads.
But one hidden gem of a village offers everything you could want for a postcard perfect break, and it is surprisingly easy to reach.
This place in Buckinghamshire has all the classic features of a rural village, from peaceful country walks to cosy pubs, with the added bonus of excellent transport links, including its own train and London tube station.
The nearest city is London, and you can even get there directly on the Elizabeth Line, making it ideal for city workers wanting a weekend escape without a long trip.
Once you arrive at Burnham station, the High Street is just a 20 minute walk or a five minute Uber ride away, so there is no need for a car.
Burnham’s long, narrow High Street is full of independent shops, traditional pubs, local restaurants and a few familiar chain stores.
Once a market town, the village centre still has plenty of historic charm with its winding lanes and pretty storefronts.
For a country house stay, the Burnham Beeches Hotel is a great choice. This grand Georgian building has neat gardens and woodland walks close by. Now a cosy four star hotel, it offers a range of beautifully designed rooms.
The Oak Character Rooms are especially popular, with vintage style decor, four poster beds or bathtubs, and touches like Nespresso machines and bathrobes that make a weekend feel extra relaxing.
Guests can hire bikes from the hotel, which is a brilliant way to explore the countryside without needing a car.
You can cycle to Burnham Beeches Nature Reserve, which has lots of trails through ancient woodland and looks stunning in every season. You might spot cows and ponies on your walk, as well as wildlife like deer and badgers hidden among the trees.
If you plan your walk or bike ride well, you can finish at a cosy country pub, the perfect reward after being out in the fresh air. The Blackwood Arms is a local favourite, and you will often see bikes parked outside this classic rural pub.
On sunny days there is a lovely garden with countryside views, but you might prefer to settle inside among the dark wood interiors and enjoy a menu of comforting British dishes.
Dogs are welcome too, and there is even a vending machine that dispenses treats for your four legged friend.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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