Walk in George Orwell's Golden Country

Experience Overview

Join us on this walk ‘Coming Up For Air’ in the Chilterns and discover the 'golden country' of George Orwell’s childhood around Henley-on-Thames.

What you will do

"If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself." Orwell's childhood here in the Chilterns countryside around Henley-on-Thames can be see to have influenced passages in some of his writing and as we walk it is not difficult to find ourselves in both 1984 and his earlier novel Coming Up for Air. We start out along the River Thames where Orwell loved to fish, then head up the hill to discover a ‘listening station’ with echoes of Big Brother. With Orwell’s approval we may pause for a drink at the local inn before continuing on through bluebell woods where 1984 hero Winston would go to escape the Thought Police. Returning to Shiplake we pass the house where Orwell once lived.

What's included

Expert local guide. Insights into George Orwell and the places that may have influenced some of the passages in his work. A pint of local Loddon beer (or similar drink).

What I might need

Walking shoes/boots and outdoor clothing, including waterproofs in case of rain. Small rucksack for personal provisions, including snacks and drink. Picnic lunch.

About the host

Your guide will be Philippa. She is an experienced outdoor leader who lives locally and is passionate about the Chilterns. You can expect so much more than just a walk as Philippa will share her knowledge and interests so that you too can appreciate the places and landscapes that she treasures.

FROM £40

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