West Wycombe Ridges and Bottoms
3 people attending
17 places left
Dogs are very welcome at the events I organise, please take responsibility for your pet.
West Wycombe village sits at the meeting of several valleys cutting into the Chiltern Hills, with the valley bottoms separated by ridges. This terrain was mainly formed during the last Ice Age when meltwater deeply eroded the frozen, tilted chalk surface. During the walk you will see how the Ice Age has left its imprint on the landscape and on human settlement and activity.
This circular walk will take us northwest of West Wycombe to some beautiful countryside and woodland with far-reaching views. Back on West Wycombe Hill, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the amazing views over West Wycombe and the Dashwood Mausoleum before heading downhill and passing the HellFire Caves.
If you fancy visiting the HellFire Caves, Groupon has a 2 for 1 offer here.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans which are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential both in mid winter to preserve heat and in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Gloves: essential in frosty weather.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglasses: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye.
Suncream: essential to prevent sunburn.
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch, energy bars and plenty of water.