Crimbo Limbo Limber Up & Penultimate Steps Of 2025?

Please note that this event is taking place on a Sunday over the Christmas holiday period. 

Waitlist: If this event becomes fully booked, but if you'd like to attend, please add yourself to the waitlist. Places often become available closer to the date, and you are likely to get one. I am happy to consider opening more slots if there is enough interest. 

Escape the Christmas madness for a few hours — ditch the turkey, sprouts, and endless small talk with relatives who still don’t get it. Instead, grab some fresh air, take in the views, burn off those extra Xmas calories, and sample the delights of a cosy country pub. 

This walk explores one of the most scenic areas of the Chilterns, the Hamble Valley, including extensive wooded hills and valley floor. The Hamble Valley was one of the first places in the Chilterns to be occupied by man due to it's lush valley and flowing brooks, making it ideal for early settlements. It is also close to the Thames which was a major highway before roads became a viable option. 

We will start in the scenic village of Hambleden, known for its timeless charm and has attracted the attention of filmmakers and TV producers over the years, including the 2005 film Pride & Prejudice and the area in general is synonymous with "The Vicar of Dibley" and "Midsomer Murders", but with the latter don't be put off as it's not the murder capital of the UK! 

From Hambleden we will initially venture west including a climb up the valley through the extensive Great Wood with it's beech woodland. Taking a series of paths and quiet lanes, at the half way point we reach the quiet hamlet of Southend. From Southend we take the Chilterns Way for a while, going downhill with views over to Turville and it's distinctive windmill. We then wind back up and then downhill through more woodland to eventually arrive at the village of Skirmett, with it's jumble of flint and brick houses. After Skirmett we will take a flat route along the bottom of the valley back to Hambleden, with the option to visit the pub for a festive drink. 

The route - click this link in red to see it.

Dogs: 

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, there are a few stiles on route and quiet lane sections and crossings but generally the going is suitable for dogs to be off the lead for much of the time. Please abide by the Countryside Code (https://tinyurl.com/rlqvp3h) and remember not everyone loves dogs as much as you do so be mindful of other members.

Is this your first ODL event?

Attending your first event with OutdoorLads might feel daunting. What will happen, who will be there, and what can you expect? We know that new members in particular like to know in advance more about what an OutdoorLads event will be like. 

If this is your first ODL event, you should check out the information designed specifically for you on the My First Event page on the ODL website. If you have any other questions you can send a message to the leader.