Chiltern Hills, Protected natural area in southern England
Chiltern Hills is a chalk upland in southern England characterized by beech woodlands and gently rising slopes. The landscape alternates between wooded ridges and open valleys where small settlements nestle among fields and pastures.
Iron Age tribes fortified the hilltops and used the natural routes through the terrain for trade and defense. Roman roads later followed these ancient paths, connecting settlements to London and other trading centers.
The name derives from the old Celtic word for high ground, still used by local communities who maintain the ancient network of drove roads. Farmers continue to manage the chalk downland using traditional grazing practices that help preserve wildflower meadows and butterfly populations.
Marked walking trails pass through the woods and across open slopes, with many routes starting from nearby railway stations. The gentle gradients suit walks of different lengths, while some sections follow steps or unpaved paths.
The chalk streams flow year-round with constant temperature and clear water fed directly from the porous hills. These rare waterways support brown trout and grayling found in only a few other regions worldwide.
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