Burnham Beeches

Burnham Beeches is a National Nature Reserve of international importance, covering 374 hectares of ancient woodland southwest of Slough, managed by the City of London Corporation. The veteran pollarded beeches here are among the most extraordinary trees in southern England, their hollow trunks, gnarled limbs and twisted root systems creating a woodland landscape unlike anywhere else in the Chilterns. This 6.2 km circuit moves between sandy heathland, moss-cushioned woodland paths and sunken bridleways where the trees arch overhead, with 62 m of gentle climbing spread across undulating ground. The reserve feels ancient and atmospheric, particularly in autumn when the beech canopy turns copper and gold.

Dogs thrive on this dog friendly walk. Off-lead potential is high throughout most of the reserve, with the varied terrain providing constant interest: soft sandy tracks on the heath, rooty woodland paths through the ancient pollards, and open glades where dogs can run. The scent environment is exceptional, with centuries of leaf litter, hollow tree trunks and damp mossy ground producing the kind of deep, complex woodland smell that keeps dogs absorbed for the full circuit. Livestock are largely absent, and the reserve's size means it never feels overcrowded even at weekends. The terrain is gentle enough for dogs of all ages, and the sandy, well-drained paths hold up well in wet weather. Toilets and a cafe are available near the main car park.