The Chilterns are an unspoilt area of rolling hills, beechwoods, quiet valleys and charming brick and flint villages that run from Hitchin through the counties of Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire to Reading in the south. Within easy reach of London, the Chilterns may be popular with commuters, but they have nonetheless kept much of their rural character. There is wildlife here in abundance and if you’re lucky you may even spot one of the red kites that have just been reintroduced to the area. There are prosperous towns like Amersham and Henley-on-Thames to visit, as well as pretty villages like Hambledon. The Cliveden Estate, with its lovely grounds, is nearby, while the 17th century Manor House at Princes Risborough is also well worth a visit.