National Grade: Moderate  Distance: 11.6miles / 18.6km  Leader: Simon Clarke  Date: April 1st 2026

Arriving by various different modes of transport an impressive 17 of us plus Ned and Flynn gathered outside High Wycombe station on a dry but quite chilly morning. We had seen Simon there so it wasn’t some cunningly conceived April Fools prank! A spacious and warm hall opposite the station with a Costa coffee bar made for a very pleasant place to wait. We welcomed 3 new ladies to our number and set off, initially along some streets, but then out into Hughenden Park. The immediate contrast was striking as we walked along a trickling river and past extensive displays of daffodils. We stopped for a discussion about Hughenden Manor and Simon gave us some information, as did Mark and one or two others. Morning break was at the Hughenden Valley village shop and cafe. Although the coffee machine was being cleaned at the time, several hot drinks and cakes were served and there were plenty of tables and chairs. 

We were promised 3 hills and we did notice them! But extensive and lovely views from the tops made the effort certainly worth it. Walking through a wood after the first hill we spotted two fresh-looking pineapples mounted on sticks poking upwards out of the undergrowth by the path. Were these April Fool pranks? But why? Who was likely to even see them? We could think of no other logical reason so continued on. Further along, a field of sheep with new-born lambs made a heart-warming sight. Lunch was at Hampden Common around the cricket green where there were plenty of seats. We noticed torn up turf all over the green and the feeling was that it was probably caused by badgers grubbing about for worms. Leaving after lunch we headed for Hampden House. This magnificent house with its own church and stable block was undergoing some kind of restoration. We decided to have a group picture in front of the rather grand stable block. Our route then took us up past Buckmoorend and across the meadows through the Chequers estate. With most trees not yet in leaf, there were fine views of the main house with Coombe Hill in the background. Our path then joined one of the most scenic parts of the walk with glimpsed views over the Aylesbury Vale as we made our way along some of the Outer Aylesbury Ring. We emerged from the hill down a long path into Great Kimble where the bus stop allowed those hoping to catch the bus back to High Wycombe to complete their walk. Others walked on a short distance further along a very pretty path with white blossoms to arrive at Little Kimble station to rejoin their cars or catch the train home. Thank you, Simon, for this enjoyable and scenic walk.

Report by Simon Thornhill