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Sophie Hewitt
1st April 2025

With its rolling countryside, glorious views and diverse wildlife, The Chilterns National Landscape is a national treasure, and what’s more, this beautiful region boasts a range of walks and rides suitable for those with accessibility needs. From walks to adventures and experiences in the surrounding area with accessibility guides, take a look at our round up and start planning your escape to The Chilterns.

Orchid

College Lake Nature Reserve

A real haven for wildlife, College Lake Nature Reserve is the perfect spot to spy migrating wildfowl and more than 1,000 species. What’s more, this green gem is renowned for its orchids and cornfield flowers, so you can expect picture-perfect views in spring and summer. With a visitor centre and lake-side trails, you’ll find wheelchair accessible paths and bird hides, plus the opportunity to hire an all-terrain vehicle that can be booked for FREE, so the whole family will have the chance to discover those panoramic views.

Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall in nearby Hemel Hempstead is well worth a visit for a taste of the theatrical! Boasting a cinema, and an ever-changing programme of live theatre, music, comedy and more, this destination for the arts is a real community hotspot. The Old Town Hall has a full AccessAble guide and offers concession tickets for those with access needs. Better yet, they offer Relaxed Performances for those with additional needs, Captioned Performances and Deaf Friendly Shows, so you can select the experience which best suit your needs.

The Snow Centre  

Just a short distance from The Chilterns, Hemel Hempstead’s Snow Centre offers real snow experiences – yes, real snow! With a full AccessAble Guide, you can create an experience to suit your needs. Take to the slopes for skiing and snowboarding lessons, practice your skills with a lift pass, soak up the real snow fun with ringo rides for the family, or take it all in with a hot chocolate and comfort food in The Lodge.

Natural History Museum Tring

Set just a stone’s throw from The Chilterns, the Natural History Museum Tring is the sister site to the renowned London museum, boasting one of the finest collections of animal specimens in the country. Take a look at their AccessAble guide to start planning your day out, and discover this fascinating museum, which is jam- packed with exhibitions, family-friendly events and animals ranging from polar bears and penguins to giant tortoises and even a collection of fleas in fancy dress!

Skateboard

The XC

The XC in Hemel Hempstead is made for the thrill-seekers, the adrenaline junkies and those looking for a little adventure. Whether you choose skateboarding, climbing or even caving, adventures here know no limits. With a full AccessAble guide and experienced instructors on-hand to support and guide you, you can unlock your inner adventurer in a safe environment.

The Paper Mill

Once you’ve ventured and explored, it’s time to sit back and enjoy a delicious meal. Head to The Paper Mill in Apsley and you can expect glorious views across the Grand Union Canal, cosy log fires, a sun-drenched terrace in summer and a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy pub classics made from fresh ingredients and raise a glass to what’s in season. Take a look at their accessibility information and plan your perfect meal out.