Discover Amersham | A Visitor's Introduction to Amersham, Buckinghamshire

Why is Amersham Worth a Visit?

Amersham is worth visiting for its stunning mix of historic charm, picturesque countryside, and proximity to London. Old Amersham’s beautifully preserved streets are lined with half-timbered buildings, Georgian facades, and cosy pubs, providing a glimpse into the past. The surrounding Chiltern Hills offer fantastic opportunities for walking and cycling, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, Amersham is a perfect escape for those looking to experience rural England at its best, all within easy reach of the capital.

Amersham Highlights: Things to See and Do in Amersham

1. Old Amersham
The historic heart of the town, Old Amersham, is a must-visit for its beautiful medieval and Georgian buildings, cobbled streets, and picturesque setting. As you wander through the old town, you’ll find a mix of independent boutiques, antique shops, and traditional pubs, along with charming tea rooms. Old Amersham also boasts beautiful timber-framed houses and a 17th-century market hall, which reflect the town’s long history as a bustling market centre.

2. Amersham Museum
One of the best ways to learn about the history of the area is by visiting the Amersham Museum, located in a beautifully restored Tudor house. The museum tells the story of Amersham from prehistoric times to the present day, with exhibits on local industries, notable residents, and the town’s connections to the Chilterns. The museum also features a lovely herb garden and hosts a range of family-friendly activities, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages.

3. St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is a stunning medieval church located in Old Amersham, with parts dating back to the 13th century. The church’s striking architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a great place to explore. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and memorials to local figures. The churchyard is also home to the Martyrs' Memorial, commemorating those who lost their lives during the Protestant Reformation. A visit here offers a quiet reflection of Amersham’s deep-rooted history.

4. The Chilterns: Walking and Cycling
Surrounding Amersham are the rolling hills and woodlands of the Chiltern Hills, offering some of the best walking and cycling routes in southern England. Popular walking trails include the Chiltern Way and sections of the South Bucks Way, both of which pass through Amersham’s countryside, offering stunning views of the hills, farmland, and ancient woodlands. Cycling enthusiasts will also enjoy the scenic rides along country lanes and bridleways, making Amersham a fantastic base for exploring the great outdoors.

5. The Crown Inn
For a taste of history and comfort, The Crown Inn in Old Amersham is a delightful place to stay or enjoy a meal. This historic coaching inn dates back to the 16th century and has been beautifully restored, maintaining its original charm with oak beams, open fireplaces, and cosy nooks. The inn’s restaurant serves traditional British cuisine with a modern twist, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The Crown Inn is also famous for being featured in the film Four Weddings and a Funeral, adding a touch of cinematic nostalgia to its appeal.

6. Chenies Manor House
Just a short drive from Amersham is the beautiful Chenies Manor House, a Tudor mansion with stunning gardens. The manor is steeped in history, having hosted monarchs like Elizabeth I and Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the house’s Tudor rooms, see the collection of fine furniture and tapestries, and stroll through the exquisite gardens, which feature topiary, colourful flower beds, and a maze. Chenies Manor is a wonderful destination for history lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

7. The Amersham Martyrs’ Memorial
The Amersham Martyrs’ Memorial, located near St. Mary’s Church, commemorates seven local Protestants who were executed in the 16th century for their religious beliefs. These individuals were burned at the stake during the reign of Henry VIII for rejecting Catholic doctrines. The memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the town’s historical significance during the Reformation, and the nearby Martyrs’ Walk offers a peaceful place for reflection.

8. Amersham-on-the-Hill
For those looking for a more modern shopping and dining experience, Amersham-on-the-Hill is the newer part of town, located just a short walk uphill from Old Amersham. This area is home to a variety of high-street shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as Amersham’s train station. Amersham-on-the-Hill offers a convenient place to relax after exploring the town’s historic sights, with plenty of options for dining and shopping.

9. Colne Valley Regional Park
For a more extensive outdoor adventure, Colne Valley Regional Park is a large area of countryside located just a short drive from Amersham. The park offers over 40 square miles of rivers, lakes, woodlands, and walking trails, perfect for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Black Park, part of the Colne Valley, is particularly popular for its scenic lakeside walks, bike trails, and film location tours, as the park has been featured in several major films.

10. Day Trips to Nearby Villages
Amersham is perfectly situated for exploring other nearby villages and towns in the Chilterns. Great Missenden, the former home of children’s author Roald Dahl, is just a short drive away and is home to the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, perfect for families and fans of his books. Beaconsfield, with its beautiful old town and model village, is another charming place to visit, offering a mix of historic buildings and modern attractions.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Amersham is well-connected by both road and rail, making it an easy destination to reach from London and surrounding areas. By train, Amersham Station is on both the London Underground’s Metropolitan Line and Chiltern Railways, offering direct services from London Marylebone and Baker Street. The journey from central London takes around 40 minutes to an hour. If travelling by car, Amersham is conveniently located just off the A413 and close to the M40 motorway, providing easy access from London, Oxford, and other parts of the country.

Parking:
There are several car parks available in Amersham, both in Old Amersham and Amersham-on-the-Hill. The Old Town Car Park is centrally located, making it easy to explore the historic area on foot, while Amersham Station Car Park is ideal for those arriving by train or looking to park near the newer part of town. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends and during busy periods, so arriving early is recommended.

Dining:
Amersham boasts a great selection of dining options, with a focus on traditional British fare, international cuisine, and locally sourced ingredients. The Crown Inn and The Kings Arms Hotel are both excellent for fine dining in a historic setting, offering menus featuring seasonal dishes and local produce. For a more casual meal, The Artichoke in Old Amersham is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative dishes and modern European cuisine. Amersham-on-the-Hill also offers a range of eateries, from traditional pubs to Italian and Indian restaurants, catering to all tastes.

Shopping:
Old Amersham is a treasure trove of independent shops and boutiques, perfect for finding unique gifts, antiques, and locally made products. The Broadway and Whielden Street are lined with charming stores selling everything from fine jewellery to handmade crafts. For those interested in antiques, Old Amersham is home to several antique shops offering a range of collectibles and furniture. Amersham-on-the-Hill provides a more modern shopping experience, with high-street brands and a selection of grocery stores for everyday needs.

When to Visit:
Amersham is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the countryside is in full bloom, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The town’s parks and gardens, such as the Amersham Museum Garden and the surrounding Chiltern Hills, are particularly beautiful during this time. Autumn is another lovely time to visit, with the Chilterns offering spectacular views of colourful foliage. Winter brings a cosy charm to the town, with local pubs offering warm fires and festive decorations.

Local Events:
Amersham hosts a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, including its annual Amersham Heritage Day, which celebrates the town’s rich history with reenactments, market stalls, and entertainment. The Old Amersham Christmas Market is a festive highlight, with the historic streets transformed by twinkling lights, seasonal stalls, and carol singing. Throughout the year, Amersham Museum also hosts a range of events, workshops, and guided walks, providing insight into the town’s past and its connection to the Chilterns.

Exploring Beyond Amersham:
Amersham’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider Chilterns region. High Wycombe and Chesham are nearby towns offering additional attractions, such as Hughenden Manor, the former home of Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, and The Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden. The charming village of Jordans, known for its Quaker heritage, is just a short drive away and offers lovely walking routes and a peaceful atmosphere. For those looking for a bigger day out, Oxford and London are both easily accessible by train, making them ideal for a day trip.