Located in the Chiltern Hills, Old Amersham is a picturesque gem in Buckinghamshire. It’s not just the stunning views or the charming high street that draw people in; it’s the inviting allure of history, mixed with modern flair, and the occasional whispers of stories from the local old Amersham pubs.
Amersham, with its blend of the ancient Old Town and chic modern sections, is a leafy suburb that’s just a stone’s throw from London. As you saunter through its streets, don’t be surprised if you catch yourself daydreaming of settling down here – after all, it boasts some truly enviable homes!
Delving deeper into its past, this town dates back to 796AD! Fast forward to today, and you’ll find visitors gravitating to its Georgian streets, unique shopping spots, and many of listed buildings that give Buckinghamshire its character.
Wondering what Amersham is famous for? Well, beyond the obvious beauty and rich history, it’s the town’s spirit and community vibe. It’s the kind of place where a day trip feels like a mini-vacation. And if you’re in the mood for adventure, there’s always something happening, especially over the weekend!
So, whether you’re thinking of a spontaneous visit, planning a leisurely day trip from London, or even pondering the joys of living in Amersham, you’re in for a treat. Come see for yourself!
Where is Amersham in England?
Where is Amersham UK? Amersham is nestled amongst the Chilterns in Buckinghamshire. That means that it is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by the undulating landscape of the Chiltern Hills.
It sits on the banks of the River Misbourne. The high-quality agricultural land that surrounds it is what led it to become a bustling market town.
The town lies a little way outside to the M25 to the north-west of London. It’s roughly halfway between High Wycombe and Hemel Hempstead, in what is considered the commuter belt for London.
Amersham postcode
The postcode for Amersham, a town in Buckinghamshire, England, is HP6.
What is Amersham famous for?
Amersham has a few claims to fame in popular culture. It’s most notable movie appearance is probably ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’. One of the suites from the Crown Hotel was used during the filming as was the exterior of The King’s Arms.
The town is also mentioned in Geroge Orwell’s 1984 as well as Good Omens, by Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman.
How to get to Amersham from London?
The easiest way to get to Amersham from central London is by taking the Chiltern Railway. You can board at Marylebone and be in Amersham in around 35 minutes.
By car, there are several different routes you can take. The most straightforward is to leave the M25 at junction 18. From there it takes a little over 10 minutes to reach Amersham.
Amersham facts:
| Population: | 14,400 |
| County: | Buckinghamshire |
| Region: | South East |
| Famous for: | Top commuter town |
| Must see: | Cottages |
Where to stay in Old Amersham?
Best places to stay Amersham? Amersham is a relatively small town, so there is not a large number of hotels. The ones you will find are all small local and independent hotels.
Kings Arms Hotel
Of your options in the centre of town, the Kings Arms Hotel is one of the most distinctive. The building is in the traditional Tudor style and looks fabulous. It has played host to a range of famous names throughout history, including Oliver Cromwell. While the building has maintained its historic charm, the amenities are all up to date.
It is an excellent value four-star hotel right in the heart of Old Amersham.
Explore the best things to do in Amersham Buckinghamshire and top ideas for places to see in Old Amersham market town:
Things to see in Old Amersham:
Old Amersham is the part of the town at the base of the hill. This is where you will find the majority of the attractions to visit and see. If you arrive by train you will come into the new part of the town so will have to stroll down the hill to find the majority of these spots.
1. Old Amersham High Street
What to see in Amersham town centre? As you wander along the High Street in Old Amersham, you will be flanked on either side by amazing Medieval houses. As you walk the streets, you will be able to see how building styles have changed over the years, with the old and new nestled together.
If you look hard enough, you can find buildings from every major period since the 13th Century.
2. Gardens of Remembrance Amersham
Places to visit Amersham? At the back of the High Street, you will find a small but touching garden. It has been dedicated to the servicemen and women from Amersham who died during the First and Second World Wars. There is a fountain in the centre of the garden, where the paths meet.
All around the edges of the garden, you will see bright flower beds. The flowers are planted in thoughtful and intricate designs each year. If you can visit during the spring or summer, you will not regret it.
Every other Sunday in May through to September the garden hosts a concert of brass and jazz bands.
3. Amersham War Memorial
Top places to see in Amersham? In the Remembrance Gardens, there is a stone cross. It is in the fleur-de-lys style. It was placed to commemorate those who were lost in World War I.
There is an inscription to the fallen as well as a list of names. A small section has also been added to commemorate the fallen of World War II.
4. The River Misbourne
What to do in Amersham in Buckinghamshire? The River Misbourne is an interesting river. It was formed as a result of the Chiltern railway creating a viaduct. As such, it requires a lot of care and maintenance to keep it running. It runs over sections of non-porous materials which is why it can be seen. If these materials are disturbed, the river will sink underground and be lost from sight.
It is not uncommon for the river to run very low or even stop from time to time. The people of Amersham take great pains to keep the river flowing as it is a part of their town.
5. Amersham walks
What to do in Old Amersham? Amersham is ideally located in the Chilterns for anyone who likes to walk in the countryside.
There is a beautiful circular walk that takes in the nearby village of Chalfont St Giles and allows you to explore the Misbourne valley. The route takes you along riverside paths and through woodland trails. The somewhat challenging hill climbs are worth it for the views at the top. Looking out over the Chilterns is well worth the effort.
The whole loop is around 9 miles and is a great way to work up an appetite for a good meal in one of the local pubs.
6. The Elephant and Castle
Best pubs in Amersham Bucks? The Elephant and Castle is a local pub in the heart of Amersham. It is a refurbished 17th-century pub, so it is full of character. There is a log fire to enjoy in winter and a walled garden for the summer.
They serve great British comfort food and often play host to live music.
7. St Mary’s Church
Amersham what to do? St Mary’s Church is a medieval church. The main part of the building was constructed in the 1200s, with some additions made later on. While the structure remains, the exterior was changed during a restoration in 1890. At this time it was dressed with limestone and knapped flint, this is what you will see if you visit today.
To the north side of the church is a chapel for the Drake family. This is where you can find a selection of relics and sculptures. The graveyard is also the site of the (now unmarked) grave of the last woman executed in the UK.
8. Church mead
What to see in Amersham, England? Just along from the gardens of remembrance, you will find Church Mead. This is a quiet green space. There is a good-sized piece of lawn here and plenty of shady tree cover. It makes a lovely spot to sit and eat a picnic with views of the church in the distance.
If you are there on a Saturday morning, you might see a surprisingly large number of people as this is the start of Amersham’s Parkrun.
9. The Eagle
The Eagle pub is currently between owners but is worth mentioning as the building has a fascinating history. You find it on the High Street in Old Amersham. The 18th-century fronting is delightful but one of the newer features, as the building itself is much older.
It officially became a beer house in 1856, when it was licensed to sell beer, cider and perry. However, there are suspicions that you could buy a pint long before then as the building was home to the Weller, brewing family.
10. Cottages in Old Amersham
Best places to see Amersham? A large part of the charm of Old Amersham is the fantastic variety of homes and building you can find on its streets. As more people have moved into the area, every building no matter its original use has been lovingly converted into the most lovely homes.
As you wander the streets of Old Amersham, take a moment to look at the old coach houses. You will be able to see that what was once a stable is now a delightful cottage. This has lead to a dizzying mixture of homes in shapes, sizes, ages and design.
11. The Griffin
The Griffin is another excellent pub building that is currently looking for a landlord. The building is a perfect example of a coaching inn. Right in the middle of the ground floor, there is a large arched gateway leading through the building to a cobbled yard.
Interestingly, the rear of the building is from the Tudor period while the front is from the 17th Century.
12. Amersham Market
What to do in Amersham town centre? If you can plan your visit for a Tuesday, then you will be able to take a wander through the weekly market on Sycamore Road. As you wander up the hill, you can explore the wide variety of wares.
If you want a more traditional experience, you can come on a Saturday. Then the market will be in the Market Hall. It is a much smaller affair, but there is something wonderful about seeing the space still used for its intended purpose over 300 years after it was built.
There are only around ten stalls to explore, but there is a real country feel to the experience that you won’t get from a bigger market.
13. Old Amersham Market Hall
Best point of interest in Old Amersham? In 1683, Sir William Drake gifted the money to build the Amersham Market Hall. When you visit, you can see his coat of arms on the side of the building.
he upper floors are for hosting meetings. While the lower level was, and still is, used for markets. Above the door is a warning to mischief makers that read ‘Commit no nuisance’.
For those who did not heed the advice, there is a lock-up on the side of the market.
14. The Market Hall Water Pump Amersham
Best places to visit ib Amersham, England? On the eastern side of the Market Hall is a historic water pump. The pump bears the date 1785. This was when it was gifted to the people of Amersham. In those times, homes had to rely on well water. As most homes did not have their own well, a pump in the centre of town was a huge boon.
Even if it were still working, it would not be advisable to drink from it now, as the tank is made from lead, so the water would not do you any good. Although they are now gone, the local stocks used to stand opposite the pump, in easy reach of the lock-up.
15. The Swan
The Swan is a contemporary option in a town swimming in history. The modern styling makes it stand out in this quaint village.
While still a quintessentially British pub, they offer a modern twist on the classic. It’s a great place to stop for a drink and a bite to eat.
16. Free apples from locals
Do you fancy free fruits? If you visit the high street in Old Amersham very early on Sunday, you might find some.
Yes, this is a very friendly town! 🙂
17. Amersham Museum
Where to visit in Amersham Buckinghamshire? A visit to the Amersham Museum gives you a chance to enter one of the ancient buildings that you have been walking past. The museum is inside a half-timbered house dated to the 15th Century.
The museum lets you explore the town’s history over the years. There is a mix of hands-on activities and multimedia tablets. The whole museum takes you from Tudor life in the 1580s through the arrival of the Metropolitan Railway then right up to modern-day.
If you need a little rest after this whistle-stop tour, you can sit awhile in the tranquil herb garden at the back of the museum.
18. Cobbled Lanes
Cobbled streets are an endearing feature of many British historic towns. Amersham is no different. As you wander the town, you can spot the cobbled forecourts that were common at the entrance to all the old coaching inns. There are also small sections of cobbled lanes to walk along dispersed through the town.
Cobbles in the Chilterns are unusual as the chalky land is not a good source of cobblestones. It is only thanks to a local source of Sandstone in Prestwood that it was possible to have any cobbles in Amersham at all.
Amersham history
Amersham is a historic market town in the county of Buckinghamshire in the southeast of England. Its history can be traced back to the Roman period, and there is evidence of human activity in the area dating back to prehistoric times.
During the Middle Ages, Amersham was an important market town, and it played a role in the wool trade. The town was also a center for religious activity, and there were several important churches and monasteries in the area.
In the 16th century, Amersham became a center for Protestant dissent, and many people in the town were sympathetic to the ideas of the Reformation. This led to a number of conflicts with the Catholic authorities, and several prominent Protestant leaders were executed.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Amersham grew as a coaching town, with many inns and taverns catering to travelers on the London-Oxford road. The town also became a center for the production of lace, and there were many lace-makers in the area.
In the 20th century, Amersham saw significant growth and development, particularly after the arrival of the Metropolitan Railway in 1892. The town became a popular commuter town, with many people working in London and living in Amersham.
Today, Amersham is a thriving town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Its historic buildings and beautiful countryside make it a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.
Is Amersham a good place to live?
So, is Amersham a nice place to live? Amersham is a beautiful mix of the old and the new. The most prized places to live are the homes that line the streets on the hill between the old town and the new. Here the residents can enjoy the best of both worlds.
The locals regularly rate Amersham as one of the best places to live in the country, so it certainly seems like a wonderful place to live.
However, it may not be accessible to all with house prices averaging at around £1million, not many of us will get the chance to experience living in Amersham – an idyllic rural spot. We’ll just have to make do with visiting.
What was the old name for Amersham?
The old name for Amersham, a town in Buckinghamshire, England, was Agmodesham. The name has evolved over time, with variations such as Agmodesham (11th century), Agmodesham Magna (13th century), and Amersham (16th century onwards) being recorded in historical documents. The town’s current name, Amersham, has been in use for several centuries.
Amersham tourist information
Amersham is a charming market town located in Buckinghamshire, England, and is popular with tourists due to its rich history, picturesque countryside, and a range of attractions. Here is some tourist information about Amersham:
- Attractions: Amersham has several interesting attractions, including the Amersham Museum, which showcases the town’s history, and the Chiltern Open Air Museum, an outdoor museum that recreates rural life in the area. Other popular attractions include the St Mary’s Church, the Old Amersham Market Hall, and the Shardeloes Estate.
- Countryside: Amersham is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are plenty of walking and cycling routes in the area. The Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just a short distance away, and there are several nature reserves, including Hodgemoor Woods and Penn Wood.
- Events: Amersham hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Amersham Festival of Art, the Amersham Carnival, and the Chiltern Shakespeare Company’s open-air performances.
- Food and drink: Amersham is home to a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants serving a range of cuisine. There are also several food and drink festivals throughout the year, including the Amersham Food Festival and the Chiltern Brewery Festival.
- Transportation: Amersham is easily accessible by train, with frequent services from London Marylebone station. The town is also well connected by road, with the M25 motorway just a short drive away.
- Accommodation: There are several accommodation options in Amersham, including hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering cottages. Many visitors also choose to stay in nearby towns and villages, such as Chesham or Great Missenden.
- Tourist information: The Amersham Information Centre is located in the heart of the town and provides information on local attractions, events, and accommodation.
Pubs in Old Amersham
Old Amersham has several pubs that are popular with visitors and locals alike. Here are some of the pubs in Old Amersham:
- The Eagle: The Eagle is a traditional pub located in the heart of Old Amersham. It has a cozy interior and a large beer garden, and serves a range of real ales and pub food.
- The Kings Arms: The Kings Arms is a historic pub that dates back to the 14th century. It has a traditional interior with exposed beams and an open fire, and serves a range of real ales and pub food.
- The Crown: The Crown is a popular pub with a modern interior and a large beer garden. It serves a range of real ales and pub food, and also has a cocktail bar.
- The Elephant and Castle: The Elephant and Castle is a traditional pub located on the High Street in Old Amersham. It has a cozy interior with exposed brickwork and an open fire, and serves a range of real ales and pub food.
- The Saracen’s Head: The Saracen’s Head is a historic pub that dates back to the 16th century. It has a traditional interior with a large open fire and serves a range of real ales and pub food.
- The White Hart: The White Hart is a historic pub that dates back to the 17th century. It has a traditional interior with exposed beams and an open fire, and serves a range of real ales and pub food.
All of these pubs are located within walking distance of each other in Old Amersham, making it easy to try out a few during a visit to the town.
Old Amersham shops
Old Amersham has a variety of independent shops, boutiques, and galleries that are popular with visitors and locals. Here are some of the shops in Old Amersham:
- Robert Dyas: This hardware store offers a wide range of home and garden products, including cleaning supplies, tools, and kitchenware.
- The Entertainer: This toy shop offers a wide range of toys and games for children of all ages, including action figures, board games, and puzzles.
- The Little Chalfont Artisan: This gift shop specializes in handmade crafts and gifts, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
- The Cook Shop: This kitchenware shop offers a wide range of cooking tools and equipment, including baking supplies, cookware, and knives.
- The Wild Strawberry: This gift shop offers a range of unique gifts and homeware, including candles, cushions, and home accessories.
- The Stationery Depot: This stationery shop offers a wide range of office and school supplies, including pens, paper, and stationery.
- The Broadway Deli: This gourmet food shop offers a range of cheeses, meats, and specialty food items, as well as a deli counter and cafe.
- Mad Squirrel Amersham: This craft brewery and taproom offers a range of beers, as well as brewery tours and tastings.
These are just a few of the many independent shops and boutiques in Old Amersham. The town also has a weekly market on Fridays and a monthly farmers’ market, which are popular with locals and visitors alike.
Old Amersham cafe
Old Amersham has several cafes and coffee shops that are popular with visitors and locals. Here are some of the cafes in Old Amersham:
- Artichoke Cafe: This cafe is located in the heart of Old Amersham and offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as cakes and pastries. It has a cozy interior and a small outdoor seating area.
- The Grocer at 91: This cafe and grocery store offers a range of coffee, tea, and cakes, as well as a selection of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. It has a bright and airy interior and a small outdoor seating area.
- The Elephant and Castle: This pub and cafe offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as coffee, tea, and cakes. It has a modern interior and a large outdoor seating area.
- The Broadway Deli: This gourmet food shop and cafe offers a range of sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as cakes and pastries. It has a small seating area inside the shop.
- Cafe Africa: This cafe offers a range of African-inspired food and drinks, as well as coffee, tea, and cakes. It has a cozy interior and a small outdoor seating area.
- The Roald Dahl Museum Cafe: This cafe is located in the nearby village of Great Missenden, just a short drive from Old Amersham. It offers a range of sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as cakes and pastries, and has a bright and colorful interior.
These are just a few of the cafes in Old Amersham and the surrounding area. There are also several tea rooms and pubs that offer food and drinks throughout the day.
Places to visit near Old Amersham:
- Little and Great Missenden: 3-6 miles away from Amersham
- Wendover: 10 miles away from Amersham
- Burnham Beeches: 10 miles away from Amersham
- Windsor: 15 miles away from Amersham
- Marlow: 16 miles away from Amersham
- Turville: 17 miles away from Amersham
- St. Albans: 18 miles away from Amersham
- Henley-on-Thames: 21 miles away from Amersham
- Kew Gardens: 27 miles away from Amersham
- Richmond Park: 32 miles away from Amersham
- Abingdon: 42 miles away from Amersham
- Shere: 44 miles away from Amersham
- Pangbourne: 44 miles away from Amersham
Is Old Amersham worth visiting?
Old Amersham is a gorgeous spot. It is filled with history and amazing old buildings.
The location is a perfect setting off point for some lovely walks. All the amenities ensure that you will enjoy some excellent shopping and a great meal afterwards.
It’s an ideal spot for a day trip, especially if you are based in London. It gives you a real taste of the best that the London Suburbs has to offer.
If you are looking for the best commuter towns near London then Amersham should be high on your list!
Old Amersham FAQ:
Amersham once have been named among some of the best places to live in South-East England. With close proximity to London, Amersham is one of the best places to live near the capital city.
Visit Ego at The Pomeroy and Bistro Twelve Twenty are some of the best restaurants in Amersham.
In the heart of Buckinghamshire lies Amersham, a harmonious blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance. From the winding alleys of Old Amersham to the bustling scenes in Amersham town centre, this slice of England is the ideal getaway for those looking for things to do near London. With its delightful old town pubs and numerous activities, it’s no wonder it tops many ‘must-visit’ lists. Considering a day out?
Whether it’s exploring local treasures, seeking out what the town is famous for, or simply soaking in the ambience of Amersham village, this destination promises more than just sights – it offers experiences. Come and discover why so many recommend a day trip or even living in Amersham. Your perfect English adventure awaits!
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