Become a host

The Secret in the Chilterns

  • 40 guests

  • 19 bedrooms

  • 16.5 bathrooms

Add dates for price

Hidden away in the Hambleden Valley on the cusp of the Chilterns, this historic estate is something extraordinary. Dating back to 1450 and spanning over 500 private acres of landscaped gardens, wildflower meadows, and woodlands, it's hard to believe it's only an hour from central London. You'll be spread across six self-contained homes, including Grade II listed manor houses and a shepherd's hut that's perfectly suited to a couple. While each has its own dining space and kitchen, you'll find more than enough room for group get-togethers in the barn. There's also a games room, a heated pool, and a tennis court. The cherry on top is the top-notch service. Daily housekeeping is included, while private helicopter access, vintage Thames Clipper rides, and chefs are available upon request. Safe to say, this place is pretty hard to beat.


The Plum Promise

  • No time for average – We reject thousands of homes worldwide, so you don't have to.
  • Hosts we know – With track records of high-quality hosting.
  • Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot – Exceptional service before, during and after your stay.

Ask us anything

Do you have a question about this home or the local area?

What to expect


Highlights

Stay on a historic estate a short drive from Henley-on-Thames

Stay on a historic estate a short drive from Henley-on-Thames

Travel up the river on the vintage Thames Clipper

Travel up the river on the vintage Thames Clipper

Soak in the sunken hot tub and admire the sprawling views

Soak in the sunken hot tub and admire the sprawling views

Hire a private chef to prepare a feast in the events barn

Hire a private chef to prepare a feast in the events barn

Like what you see? Explore more of this home

Home truths

  • This estate is spread across six different accommodations, each with its own kitchen, dining area, and lounge. This includes a six-bedroom farmhouse, a six-bedroom lodge, three two-bedroom cottages, and a one-bedroom shepherd's hut.

  • Please note that the main farmhouse and third cottage are undergoing renovations. We are awaiting new photographs of these spaces, but expect the style and quality to be consistent with the rest of the estate.

  • Staff will clean each accommodation every day, including making the beds and turndown services.

About this stay


Amenities

Tennis court

Home cinema setup

Outdoor fireplace / firepit

Outdoor seating

Desk

Laptop friendly workspace

Bedrooms & bathrooms

19 bedrooms, 20 beds

16.5 bathrooms

Extras

Arranged by your host • Subject to availability


VIP services

Arrange a chef

Daily cleaning

Tickets and experience booking

Additional fees

  • Your host can arrange a private chef upon request to prepare breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in the barn, as well as barbecues – an additional fee applies.Cost on request
  • Speak to your host about the number of services they offer for an additional fee, including vintage Thames Clipper rides (with or without a captain), helicopter transport, chauffeur-driven Range Rovers, 24-hour security guards, and more.Cost on request
  • Weddings, parties, and other special events are allowed with prior approval from your host – an additional fee will apply.Cost on request

Local guide


About Henley-on-Thames

Weeping willows cascade into the Thames and barges putter along the serene water – life in Henley-on-Thames is all about the river. Cruises by steamer, or a day pottering about in a row or sail boat are the best ways to experience a slice of river life, and the Henley Royal Regatta takes over in August. If staying landside is more your thing there are plenty of tea rooms serving...

Explore the area

Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts

Enjoy the riverside view at the Angel on the Bridge

Enjoy the riverside view at the Angel on the Bridge

A cosy pub with wooden floors and beams, offering British dining and a riverside terrace. Enjoy fantastic views of the historic Henley Bridge and a river full of boats while savouring great food and drinks.

17 min
Dine at The Bull on Bell St

Dine at The Bull on Bell St

Enjoy modern British cuisine and own-brewed ales in a beautifully presented 1500s inn with period features and eclectic decor. The food is delicious, the staff is friendly, and the ambience is great.

18 min
Explore the Historic Greys Court

Explore the Historic Greys Court

Step back in time at this 16th-century manor house with a donkey-powered mill wheel, 12th-century tower, and grass maze. Discover the beautiful walled gardens and enjoy a walk around the perimeter, with plenty of woods to explore. Don't miss the sculpture display throughout the gardens.

22 min
Relax at Higginson Park by the River Thames

Relax at Higginson Park by the River Thames

This park features grassy banks, a playground for little ones and an outdoor cafe. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

19 min
Dine at The Ivy Marlow Garden

Dine at The Ivy Marlow Garden

Savour seasonal British fare in an airy, stylish establishment with a classic bar. Enjoy a lovely atmosphere and high-quality food.

19 min
Step into history at the Hellfire Caves

Step into history at the Hellfire Caves

Delve into this historic cave network, the former home of the Hellfire Club. Uncover a creepy past, enjoy a walled cafe, and maybe spot a ghost or two.

36 min

Get around

Airport

Blackbushe

1 hr 7 min

Heathrow

1 hr 6 min

Farnborough

1 hr 17 min

Train station

Henley-on-Thames

19 min

Subway station

Amersham

48 min

Bus stop

Westfield Bungalows

17 min

Local shops & services

Supermarket

19 min

Cafe

16 min

Pharmacy

19 min

Booking policies


House Rules

Children welcome (1-12 years)

Infants welcome (under 12 months)

Pets welcome

Events possible (with prior approval)

No smoking

Good to know

Arrival from 13:00

Departure before 11:00

Air con

Wifi

Cancellation policy

  • Up until

    30

    days

    Cancel at least 30 days before your check-in date for a full refund.

  • Up until

    7

    days

    Cancel at least 7 days before your check-in date for a 50% refund.

  • Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 7 days away.

Host


This home is managed by Lizzie

This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Whether you're planning a getaway in the Chilterns countryside or looking for somewhere special for an event, this historic estate is just the ticket. A dedicated team of staff is on hand to assist with whatever you need – be it helicopter transport, shooting weekends, or twilight cruises down the Thames.

This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.

  • Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.

The Plum Promise

  • Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
  • Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
  • Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
  • Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
  • Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.