Stokenchurch combines a waymarked walking route with a local history told through its buildings and former trades. The Chiltern Way runs through the village and is waymarked throughout. A separate circular walk from Stokenchurch to Radnage and back is also described; it starts at The Kings Hotel in Stokenchurch. You can therefore focus your stay on walking, historic buildings, or both.

Walking Around Stokenchurch

Three optional extensions can increase the total length of the Chiltern Way to a maximum of 278 kilometres. This figure refers to the entire route, including the extensions. In addition, a circular walk from Stokenchurch to Radnage and back is listed, starting at The Kings Hotel in Stokenchurch. The two routes therefore differ in form: one is a route with extensions and a variable total length, while the other is described as an out-and-back walk with a named destination. Continuous waymarking is a feature of the Chiltern Way. For the Radnage walk, the specific points of reference are primarily its route between the two villages and its starting point.

Building History and Architectural Details

Stokenchurch was first mentioned in legal documents around 1200. The village’s oldest secular building is Kensham Farmhouse, whose origins date back to the 15th century. The nave of St Peter and St Paul’s Church originally dates from the 12th century. The church is listed as a Grade II* building. Two brass reliefs depicting knights are located on the jambs of the chancel arch. The dates, listed status, and reliefs highlight different aspects of the church building: its history, its heritage designation, and a specific decorative detail.

Crafts and Local Economic History

Bodging was a traditional trade in Stokenchurch, involving the use of green wood to make furniture such as Windsor chairs. Chairmaking and lace-making also developed into important local industries. These details describe different aspects of local work: bodging refers to making furniture from green wood, while chairmaking and lace-making are identified as significant trades. The example of Windsor chairs makes the material used and a possible piece of furniture tangible. Along with the historic buildings, this craft history broadens the picture of Stokenchurch to include its former production and economic activity.

Getting There and Church Access

Regular bus services run to Stokenchurch; check the current timetable before travelling. For services, St Peter and St Paul’s Church has step-free access through the west door, as well as a ramp at the south door. This access information applies specifically to services. When planning, you can take into account two different practical considerations: travelling to Stokenchurch by bus and accessing the church in connection with a service.

Discover more destinations: Seer Green, Long Crendon, Aston Clinton, Beaconsfield, Chalfont Saint Peter, Buckingham, Adstock, Gerrards Cross.

Go to the regional travel overview: Buckinghamshire.