The Chilterns View

The highlights

• The grounds are a stunning and secluded place, with a communal firepit, picnic tables, and a large pond, plus extraordinary sunsets, remote from the stress and noise of urban activity.
• Every lodge has a private barbecue, perfect for grilling locally sourced speciality meats, as well as your own hot tub for added luxury.
• Numerous additional activities can be arranged, from kayak tours to brewery visits.
• While the tranquillity and air quality are reminiscent of the back of beyond, The Chilterns View can be reached in an hour from London.
• Your host is well integrated with the area and knows the region well, so feel free to reach out for advice and recommendations.

You should know

• The lodges are for two people maximum.
• Check in advance about bringing dogs.

The detail

In the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside, just an hour from London, The Chilterns View is a handful of dreamy, rustic cabin-style lodges, complete with south facing verandas, hot tubs, and everything you need to spend some downtime outside of the city, walking and eating well in beautiful surroundings. Designed and built with privacy, relaxation and leisure in mind, The Chilterns View represents the ultimate escape for individuals and couples looking to spend some soothing and restorative time getting back to the straightforward joys of nature.

Thanks to substantial glass walls and high windows, every lodge benefits from a light, airy interior, and substantial views of the countryside. Each lodge has a small but well equipped kitchenette, a wood-burning stove for maximum hygge, a double bed, and private bathroom. The aesthetic is rural-bohemian, and the lodges have real charm and character.

Each is set in its own small space for privacy, and between the firepit, the individual hammocks, the private hot tubs and the outdoor decking areas, all of the cabins have ample outside space for guests to unwind in. While away your time taking in the Oxfordshire evening, or recline with a book and a glass of wine.

The closest settlement is the Oxfordshire town of Ewelme, a charming and beautiful town best known for its stunning medieval church, which guests may recognise from the 2012 film of Les Miserables. The town and churchyard are steeped in English history, a must-visit site for anyone with an interest in medieval events. It is also the site of the well-known Shepherds Hut, a truly excellent pub with a roaring fire, formidable local characters, and one of the best Sunday roasts in the country; mention Chilterns View for a free glass of fizz from Gary!

Another great pub is The Crooked Billet, widely regarded as Britain’s first ever gastropub. Landlord Paul has run the pub and kitchen since 1989, and serves lamb, mutton and hogget from his own nearby farm, as well as a range of seasonal seafood. Check out their famed music nights.

Other recommendations include a clay pigeon shooting course with local instructor Matt, who can accommodate a range of abilities from first timer to seasoned expert. Alternatively, head to the hidden gem of The Corn Exchange Cinema in Wallingford, or visit The Waterfront Café in Benson Marina, and watch the meandering Thames from their glass-walled dining room as you tuck into great local food.

With countless cycle paths and hiking trails, this area is ripe for exploring and taking in on foot or by bike, before heading home to unwind in the hot tub or in front of the wood burning stove with a drink.

Features

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