For those of you who are not familiar with Hambleden you are in for a treat . It ’ s a traditionally scenic English village that has all the ingredients to make a perfect afternoon out .
Tucked away between Marlow and Henley , one mile off the A4155 , you could say Hambleden is off the beaten track . However , with its reputation for being quaint , and a popular filming spot ( Chitty Chitty Bang Bang , Midsomer Murders and 101 Dalmatians to name a few ) it can get quite busy .
Today though , in early February , with grey skies and the threat of rain , it was peaceful , calm and oh so quiet . Perfect for a wander around .
Mainly owned and managed by the Culden Faw Estate , you could be forgiven for thinking you had stepped back in time . With signs depicting old locations for the long-gone bakers , butchers and no doubt candle stick makers , the Estate makes sure the village retains its original charm .
The village shop and post office stocks jams and chutneys made on the Estate and eggs from nearby Laceys Farm . You can pop in for a cup of tea , homemade cake , or order a sandwich , and browse the rack of local books detailing walks in and around Hambleden .
We visited the village pub , The Stag and Huntsman , for a warming hot chocolate . It has B & B accommodation , a dining room complete with wood burning stove and cosy little corners with bench seats and comfy cushions . I have to add that the toilets were extremely clean , with nice hand soap and lotion , and paper towels – none of those horrible hot air blowers that I particularly dislike ( don ’ t ask why ). The large garden , surrounded by a brick and flint wall , would be perfect for a summer ’ s evening .
There is a big free car park to the side of the pub for anyone visiting Hambleden to use .
We had a lovely afternoon in Hambleden . It was a shame the sun didn ’ t shine , the photos would look so much nicer , but we were blessed with seeing the first signs of spring with snowdrops in the churchyard .
To see more of our images of Hambleden please visit http :// www . hiyabucks . co . uk / our-beautiful-bucks /
Helen Gerrish - Editor
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