About Philipshill Wood

Philipshill Wood is a Ancient semi-natural broadleaf in Buckinghamshire, near Chalfont St Giles. Managed by Woodland Trust, the woodland offers peaceful walks and is a fine example of ancient semi-natural broadleaf. The woodland is dominated by beech with oak, ash and cherry. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and red kite. Badgers and foxes are present. The woodland has a rich fungal community including chanterelles and penny bulbs.

History & Background

Philipshill Wood is an ancient woodland in the Chilterns, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty renowned for its beech woods. The wood was historically managed as coppice and for beech timber. The Chilterns beech woods have been the source of furniture-making timber for centuries.

Trees & Wildlife at Philipshill Wood

The woodland is dominated by beech with oak, ash and cherry. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and red kite. Badgers and foxes are present. The woodland has a rich fungal community including chanterelles and penny bulbs.

Location & Nearest Towns

Philipshill Wood is located in Buckinghamshire, England. The nearest town is Chalfont St Giles. Nearby places include Gerrards Cross, Chalfont St Peter.

Interesting Facts

  • Philipshill Wood is in the Chilterns, which contains the largest area of continuous beech woodland in Britain.
  • Red kites, once extinct in England, have been successfully reintroduced to the Chilterns and are now a common sight soaring over the woodland.
  • The Chilterns beech woods have supplied timber for furniture-making since the 18th century, including for the famous Windsor chair.

Visitor Tips for Philipshill Wood

Best Time to Visit

Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for woodland walking.

What to Bring

Walking boots or sturdy shoes, a waterproof jacket, an OS map, water and snacks. A dog lead if walking with your dog.

Access & Parking

Car park off the road to Chalfont St Giles. Waymarked trails. No visitor centre or toilets on site. Nearest facilities in Chalfont St Giles or Amersham.

Dog Policy

Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.

Exploring Philipshill Wood

Philipshill Wood is a moderate-difficulty woodland walk in Buckinghamshire. The woodland is primarily Ancient semi-natural broadleaf, and the site is managed by Woodland Trust. Whether you're a seasoned walker or a first-time visitor, the woodland offers a peaceful escape among the trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philipshill Wood suitable for families?

Yes, the woodland has level paths suitable for families. Undulating terrain on the Chiltern escarpment with well-maintained paths. Some steeper sections. Access via gates from the car park. Suitable for families with reasonable fitness.

What is the best time to visit Philipshill Wood?

Spring to autumn offers the best walking conditions. April and May for bluebells. Spring for birdsong and red kite displays. Summer for shade and butterflies. Autumn for spectacular beech colour and fungi. Winter for bare-tree views.

Are dogs allowed in Philipshill Wood?

Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.

Why Visit Philipshill Wood?

Philipshill Wood is a Ancient semi-natural broadleaf woodland in Buckinghamshire, England — one of the UK's finest woodland walks. Browse our full directory of UK woodland walks to discover more woods to explore.

Nearby Woodland Walks to Explore

Looking beyond Philipshill Wood? These woodland walks are worth exploring.