Set in the heart of the Chiltern Hills, Chesham combines countryside charm with commuter convenience. Known for its strong sense of community, beautiful green surroundings and good transport links into London, Chesham appeals to growing families, nature lovers and professionals alike. It offers a balanced lifestyle that bridges the gap between market-town living and easy access to the capital.
Chesham
Our guide to living in Chesham
Amenities
Chesham town centre has a traditional market-town feel with a mix of high street names, supermarkets, and independent retailers. The town’s pedestrianised High Street is home to cafes, charity shops, salons, and bakeries, while the Elgiva Theatre hosts live music, cinema and performances year-round. Chesham Leisure Centre offers swimming, a gym and sports facilities. For day-to-day needs, there’s a Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and several convenience stores, plus GP surgeries, dental practices and pharmacies nearby. There is also a regular market and a number of community events, which help maintain the town’s close-knit, friendly atmosphere.
Nature & outdoors
Chesham is surrounded by the rolling hills and woodlands of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Lowndes Park, located in the town centre, is a well-loved space for families, dog walkers and community events. The Chess Valley Walk follows the River Chess and is ideal for scenic walks and spotting wildlife. Residents enjoy access to open countryside within minutes of their front doors, with popular routes to nearby villages like Latimer and The Lee. For outdoor fitness, there are also running clubs and cycling routes that take full advantage of the area’s natural beauty.
Education
The town is well served by local schools. Primary options include Brushwood Junior School, Thomas Harding Junior and Newtown School. Chesham Grammar School is highly regarded, and there are other selective schools nearby including Dr Challoner’s Grammar Schools in Amersham. Chiltern Hills Academy offers a local comprehensive secondary option. Chesham also has a number of nurseries and preschools, making it a practical choice for young families. For further education, colleges in Amersham and Aylesbury provide a wide range of academic and vocational courses.
Property
Chesham offers a mix of period character and practical modern living. The older parts of town such as Church Street and Germain Street feature charming cottages and Victorian terraces. Elsewhere, there are 1930s homes, post-war family houses and modern developments, including apartments ideal for first-time buyers. New-build homes in developments on the edge of town have brought fresh options for those looking for energy-efficient and low-maintenance properties. The wide range of housing makes Chesham accessible to different budgets while still offering good space and value for money.
Transport
Chesham is the last stop on the Metropolitan Line, offering direct tube services to central London with connections at Baker Street and Liverpool Street. This rare combination of rural living with Underground access is a key attraction for commuters. The town is also well connected by road, with the A41 and M25 nearby, and regular buses to Amersham, Berkhamsted and other nearby towns.
Why live in Chesham
Chesham blends peaceful countryside living with the practicality of strong transport links and local amenities. It’s an attractive option for those wanting more space, nature on their doorstep and access to excellent schools. Its affordability compared to nearby towns adds to its appeal, particularly for those stepping onto the property ladder or upsizing from London. The town’s welcoming community and ongoing investment in local services make it a location where people choose to stay and grow.
Looking to buy or rent in Chesham
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Get in touch with our local team today to explore the opportunities Chesham has to offer.
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