Chess Valley: Chesham to Latimer

The River Chess is one of the Chilterns' finest chalk streams, spring-fed, cold and gin-clear even in summer, running through a deep valley lined with ancient water meadows and beech hangers. This 8.9 km point-to-point from Chesham to Latimer follows the Chess Valley Walk through old watercress beds and restored chalk stream margins, with the river as a constant companion, before climbing to Latimer Park above the valley. The 197 m of climbing is concentrated on the valley-side ascents, and the terrain shifts between soft meadow paths on the valley floor and firmer woodland tracks on the slopes above. The chalk stream habitat gives the walk a distinctive character quite different from the hilltop walks that dominate the Chilterns.

Dogs find this one of the most rewarding dog friendly walks in Buckinghamshire. The Chess offers excellent swimming and paddling access at multiple points, with the clear, cold water running over chalk gravel and water crowfoot beds that produce a sweet-mineral scent dogs respond to immediately. The valley bottom carries rich, damp meadow scent, and the beech hangers on the valley sides add woodland variety. Off-lead potential is limited as livestock graze some of the water meadows, so leads should be carried throughout. The meadow paths can be wet in winter, but the chalk substrate drains well and the going is rarely difficult. Dog-welcoming cafes and pubs are available at both ends of the route.