Adventures ‘On the Road’ – Part 3 – The M40

A Karouac inspired road trip, to discover the adventures that lie within arm’s reach of the M40. For those dreaming of adventures and staring up to the hills, as they drive past ridgeways, footpaths and lakes, we’ve picked out our favourite must-see adventure and beauty spots for biking, hiking, swimming and more – all just off of the M40!

1. Punting in Oxford

Ever fancied a try at this truly timeless, slightly eccentric, quintessentially oxford, idyllic pleasure: sailing leisurely upstream or down river, trailing fingers in the silky water, admiring the wildlife, picnicking on a river bank, dropping in at the Vicky Arms or drifting downstream past the University. I’ve not yet heard of a better excuse for a quick detour off the M40 into Oxford!

2. The Chilterns

You’ll see these beautiful rolling green hills as you head out of London and towards the Cotswolds. 324 square miles of superb scenery, ideal for walking or cycling – whether a multi-day trip or a quick hop out of the car to break up your journey!

3. The Ridgeway National Trail

Walk along Britain’s oldest road; a route used for at least 5,000 years, by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers. With nearly 90 miles of trail to follow you can walk it all or pick the sections closest to the M40 for a stroll through history through this surprisingly remote area of the country, with wide open views of the rolling chalk downland.

4.The Vicar of Dibley’s Turville

A beautiful village with more pubs than you could visit in a day – though we challenge those not driving to try! A classic British village, known as the film set of Dawn French’s ‘Vicar of Dibley’ and also as the home of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, as well as some classic films like ‘Goodnight Mr Tom’.