Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Chesham has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Chesham.
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Sights in Chesham
Chesham is a historic market town located in the Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire in England. The town is situated 29 miles (47 km) northwest of London and 17 miles (27 km) southeast of the county town of Aylesbury.
The town has a population of approximately 21,000 people and is the administrative centre for the Chiltern district.
The town is twinned with both BexhillonSea in East Sussex and Aalen in Germany.
Chesham is first mentioned in the AngloSaxon Chronicle of 924, although the name most likely derives from the Old English ‘ceosel’ meaning gravel or pebble. In 1086, the Domesday Book lists the town as Cestreham.
The town’s market charter was granted by King John in 1227 and Chesham’s weekly market continues to this day, being held every Thursday.
During the Middle Ages, Chesham was an important stopoff point on the coaching routes from London to Wales and Scotland. The town was also notorious for its smuggling activities and there are many hidden tunnels beneath the houses which were used to store contraband goods.
One of the most notable buildings in Chesham is the Grade I listed St. Mary’s Church which dates back to the 13th century. The church contains a number of interesting features including a 14th century tower and some fine 14th and 15th century stained glass windows.
The nearby town of Amersham is home to the Head Office of the UK’s National Trust, a conservation charity which owns and manages many of the country’s historic buildings and countryside areas.
Chesham Bois is a picturesque village located just outside Chesham which is home to therenowned Bekonscot Model Village, the world’s oldest and largest model railway. The 1:22.5 scale replica of an early 20th century English countryside includes working model trains, houses, shops, churches and more.
Just outside Chesham Bois is Chartridge Park, a 18th century country house which is now a hotel and conference centre. The parkland surrounding the hotel is open to the public and is a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.
London Luton Airport is located just over 20 miles (32 km) from Chesham making it easily accessible for both domestic and international travellers.
History of Chesham
Chesham is a historic market town and civil parish in the Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire, England. It is located in the Chess Valley on the A41, 19 miles (31 km) southeast of the county town of Aylesbury and 11 miles (18 km) northwest of London. In 2011, the town had a population of 20,076.
The earliest records of Chesham date back to the 10th century when it was mentioned in the will of Wulfgifu, wife of the Mercian Earl Aelfward. In the Domesday Book of 1086, the town was recorded as CIssam and was located in the hundred of Danish.
Chesham is thought to have been named after the River Chess which runs through the town. The river name is derived from the Celtic word ciss or cis, meaning “gooseberry”, and the Old English word haim, meaning “home” or “village”.
The town’s market charter was granted by King Henry III in 1257. Chesham’s market square is surrounded by handsome 18thcentury buildings, including the Old Town Hall.
Chesham’s parish church, dedicated to St. Mary, has been subject to many changes over the years. The original Saxon church was replaced by a Norman one in the 12th century. This in turn was enlarged in the 13th century and again in the 15th century, at which time the octagonal font was added.
During the English Civil War, Chesham was a Royalist stronghold. In 1643, the town was besieged by Parliamentary forces for two months.
Chesham’s prosperity continued into the 19th century with the coming of the railway in 1848. The town’s population grew rapidly, reaching 11,000 by 1901.
Today, Chesham is a thriving market town with a wide range of shops and businesses. It is also home to a number of schools and colleges, as well as a variety of cultural and leisure facilities.
Vacation in Chesham
Chesham is a historic market town in the south of England, located in the county of Buckinghamshire. The town has a population of around 21,000 and is situated in the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Chesham is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside and there are plenty of opportunities for walks, cycling and picnics.
The town is located just a short drive from the M25 motorway, making it easily accessible from London and the rest of the UK. There are a number of excellent hotels and Bed & Breakfasts in Chesham, as well as a wide range of shops, restaurants and cafes.
There are a number of historic buildings in Chesham, including the Grade I listed St. Mary’s Church and the 12th century Market Cross. Chesham Museum is also worth a visit and tells the story of the town’s history, from its Roman roots to the present day.
Just outside Chesham is the Chess Valley, a picturesque valley which is home to the River Chess. The valley is popular with walkers and cyclists and there are a number of waymarked trails to follow.
At the northern end of the valley is Ashridge Estate, a 5,000 acre country estate which is open to the public. The estate features ancient woodlands, meadows, streams and ponds, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or a more active holiday, Chesham is a great destination with plenty to see and do.
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