When you think of a country escape, you may think of long car journeys down poorly paved rural roads – but one hidden gem of a village has everything you could want for a postcard-worthy break, and it’s suprisingly easy to reach. 

While Burnham in Buckinghamshire has all the hallmarks of a rural village – from country walks to cosy pubs – and the added bonus of easy transport links given that it also has its own train and London tube station. 

The nearest city is London – and in fact, you can even get a direct tube on the Elizabeth Line, making it perfect for city workers who’d like a weekend escape without a long journey. Once you arrive at Burnham’s station, the village’s High Street is just a 20-minute walk or five minute Uber ride away, so no car is needed.

Burnham’s long, narrow High Street is packed with a variety of independent shops, old-fashioned pubs, locally-owned restaurants, and a few chain stores. Once a market town, the centre of the village is still full of historic charm with its winding streets and pretty shops. 

For a country house stay, try the Burnham Beeches Hotel, a grand Georgian property with manicured gardens and woodland walks nearby. This beautiful manor house is now a cosy four-star hotel that has a range of beautifully designed rooms. Its Oak Character Rooms are some of the most popular in the property, each one with stylish, vintage decor, features from four-poster beds to bathtubs, and extras such as Nespresso machines and bathrobes which are essential for a relaxed weekend break. 

Guests at the hotel can hire a bike, which is an excellent way to see the surrounding countryside without needing a car. Cycle to Burnham Beeches Nature Reserve, which has lots of trails through sprawling ancient woodland and looks beautiful year-round. You may come across cows and ponies during your walk, as well as wildlife from deer to badgers hidden among the trees.

Plan your walk or cycling route carefully and you can end it in a cosy country pub, the perfect way to warm up after enjoying the outdoors. The Blackwood Arms is a local favourite, and you’ll often see bikes parked outside this classic rural pub. On sunny days, there’s a pretty pub garden with country views, but you may prefer to cosy up inside where there’s a rustic dark wood interior and a menu of classic British dishes to choose from. Dogs are warmly welcomed, and there’s even a treat vending machine that dispenses snacks for your furry friend.

Another way to enjoy the outdoors is at Burnham Beeches Golf Club. This 18-hole golf course is on the outskirts of the village and dates back to the 19th century with a historic clubhouse and countryside views. Visitors to Burnham can also visit the National Trust’s Cliveden Gardens and Maze, which include 80-acres of formal gardens that are Grade I listed. In the run up to Christmas, the gardens open late and have twinkling light trails, giving them a festive atmosphere.

If you’re looking to escape the city, but don’t feel like a long journey, Burnham is the ideal spot to explore the countryside, enjoy a pint in a rural pub, or take a romantic break.

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