Today, I decided to take a small hike to Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire. Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild started work on Waddesdon Manor in 1875 to display his extensive collection of art and as an entertainment retreat. It was built in the French Renaissance style which was popular with aristocracy at the time and included landscaped gardens which were designed by the landscaper Elie Lainé.
The Waddesdon Greenway
The journey started at the relatively new Aylesbury Vale Parkway station, which is on the “Marylebone line” and about an hour from London. At the time of writing, the station also offers free parking on Sundays and Bank Holidays for those that drive. From the station you can directly enter the Waddesdon Greenway which is a 5/6 mile path that connects the station to Waddesdon. The track itself is traffic-free and goes through some stunning countryside along a limestone ridge. The track is also very flat making it perfect for families or for a lazy Sunday. Interestingly, the track follows the alignment of the ancient Roman road, Akeman Street that connected St. Albans to Cirencester.
A French Renaissance Château
Springtime is a perfect time to visit the Manor as the gardens are full of spring flowers such as tulips, that bring stunning colours against the backdrop of the extensive Aylesbury Vale and the Chiltern hills in the background. On a spring day like today with a cool breeze, they help to revitalise the soul and heighten the senses.
The house itself is impressive containing extensive artworks and collections. That being said, the gardens are worth a visit themselves, incorporating a range of fountains, statues and landscapes which make the manor seem like a fairytale kingdom.
After visiting the house and its grounds it is worth popping into the village of Waddesdon itself. This is a Medieval village which contains a few pubs as well as a quaint coffee shop, which offers superb coffee and home-made cakes. A perfect place to write and rest tired knees after the hike. In fact, I write this now in front of a large cappuccino and chocolate cake.