It may be one of the most difficult years most of us have encountered, but that hasn't stopped plucky Bucks' businesses from opening, launching, re-opening and pivoting. Take a look at some of the new things we can enjoy and be inspired.
The Chilterns has always been a popular spot for cyclists with its undulating hills and spectacular scenery. Born out of a passion for the area and cycling, Wild Cycles offers adventurous bikepacking experiences, including an 86 mile ride along the Ridgeway staying at campsites, as well as self guided trails. The founding father and son team are both racing cylists with years of experience and a belief that the Chilterns offers some of the best cycling in the UK. Use your own bike or hire one of theirs and with booking dates extended into November now's a great time to book a trip.
If you prefer a more leisurely experience, how about being chauffeured around the Chilterns on a Boom trike? Chiltern Trike Tours offers experiences from 2 hours to a full day and take in local gin distilleries, breweries and windmills.Your fully licenced chauffeur has a wealth of knowledge about the area and will regale you with fascinating facts and stories as you take in the beautiful countryside.
With the season being officially extended and hoping for an Indian Summer, a few new campsites offering glamping in bell tents and yurts have sprung up. Orchard View Farm offers lovely views with the sounds of pigs, sheep and deer on their small working farm. There's an award-winning butchery which supplies food to the onsite farm shop and cafe. You can purchase food to cook at your pitch or enjoy a meal in the restaurant before heading out to explore all that the area has to offer.
The Buttercup Field at Chadwell Hill Farm has 3 furnished bell tents with bed linen and soft furnishings, outdoor lighting and bbqs. On the farm they raise their own dexter cattle, pigs, laying hens and horses. You can order home grown/produced basics such as bread and milk, home cooked meals that just need reheating, their own apple juice, breakfast packs and cheese and wine from No2 Pound Street. The spacious field offers beautiful views and the prospect of many walks (dogs welcome!) plus there are new eco loos, showers, a shaving station and a washing up station.
If you fancy a bit of glamour in your life, head to The Manor , Aylesbury's latest and swankiest new restaurant and cocktail bar. An extensive menu of locally sourced produce is offered in the casual fine dining restaurant complimented by the elegant cocktail bar with all cocktails made to order and the wine list featuring Waddesdon Manor's Rothschild vintages. For a touch of Ibiza, head to the Rooftop Bar where a subtle mix of house music (with special music nights throughout the year) plays as you can look out over the view of the Chilterns and enjoy a pizza with your cocktail.
We're delighted to announce that The Royal Oak, in Bovington Green near Marlow, re-opened in July. An award-winning traditional English country pub with a lovely garden (which includes a very stylish large teepee that can be hired for events), prides itself on its friendly service. Their new food menu and local beers, gins and (less local) wines will make any visit a real pleasure.
The Claydon Estate is a family-run estate which includes Claydon House and the Claydon Courtyard where you will find a number of lovely independent businesses. These include Corzo and Wood, a handmade designer jewellery and gift shop with a workshop where you can learn to make your own pieces; the Phoenix Kitchen which serves delicious local food including afternoon teas and Sunday roasts; and newly opened, the Spa at the Courtyard for pampering spa experiences and beauty treatments in a tranquil setting. And relax...
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