Six Woods Circular Walk

12.4 miles (20 km)

The Six Woods Circular Walk is a varied and scenic route in south Buckinghamshire that weaves through a mixture of woodland, open countryside, and stretches of canal. Starting at the car park at Bayhurst Wood Country Park, the trail explores several distinct wooded areas, each with its own character, before looping back through fields and quiet lanes. The setting feels surprisingly rural despite its proximity to London, offering a sense of peace and seclusion throughout.
The walk takes in a series of ancient and modern woods, including Mad Bess Wood and Bishop’s Wood, which are known for their tall oaks, beeches, and areas of dense undergrowth. Paths between the woods pass through farmland and hedgerows, with views over gentle hills and occasional glimpses of the Chiltern escarpment. In places, the route also follows parts of the Grand Union Canal, where tree-lined towpaths and the still water provide a contrast to the enclosed woodland sections.
Ruislip Lido lies to the east of the route and offers an attractive spot to pause, with its broad lake surrounded by pine forest and sandy shoreline. The return leg moves back through quieter woodland and grassy tracks, often rich in birdlife and wildflowers depending on the season. Spring brings carpets of bluebells, while autumn colours make the trees particularly striking. The combination of varied terrain and scenery gives the walk a sense of continual change and discovery.
Although not especially demanding, the walk covers a fair distance, and paths can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is advisable. It is best suited to walkers who enjoy longer, more immersive routes that combine nature, history, and gentle countryside. The mixture of forest, canal, and open landscape makes it a rewarding and atmospheric circuit through some of Buckinghamshire’s most characterful woodland.