Cobstone Windmill Turville
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Cobstone Windmill Turville

4.1
·98 reviews·Stokenchurch, United Kingdom

Iconic windmill famed from 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', offering stunning Chiltern Hills views from a steep hilltop perch.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cobstone Windmill Turville

Cobstone Windmill Turville

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic windmill famed from 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', offering stunning Chiltern Hills views from a steep hilltop perch.

4.1
(98 reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a touch of cinematic magic make the steep climb to this iconic windmill worthwhile."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The walk up Turville Hill is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Limited Parking

Parking in Turville village is scarce. Arrive early or consider public transport if possible. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cobstone Windmill Exterior

Cobstone Windmill Exterior

Turville Hill

Iconic smock mill, famous from 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. Admire its charm from the outside.

Panoramic Chiltern Hills Views

Panoramic Chiltern Hills Views

Turville Hill

Breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, sheep-dotted fields, and the picturesque Turville village.

Turville Village Charm

Turville Village Charm

Base of Turville Hill

A quintessential English village with a historic pub, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect Private Property

Cobstone Windmill is privately owned and not open for tours. You can admire it from the perimeter fence. Stick to public footpaths to enjoy the beautiful landscape and views.

The Hill Walk

Accessing the windmill involves a steep hill walk from Turville village. Parking is very limited. Consider the hike's difficulty and wear appropriate footwear.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Blooming wildflowers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The walk up Turville Hill is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Limited Parking

Parking in Turville village is scarce. Arrive early or consider public transport if possible. :car:

📸 Respect the Fence

The windmill is on private property. Admire and photograph it from the designated viewing areas. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Hike

The walk up offers stunning views. Embrace the journey and the beautiful Chilterns landscape. :hiking_boot:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The walk up Turville Hill is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Limited Parking

Parking in Turville village is scarce. Arrive early or consider public transport if possible. :car:

📸 Respect the Fence

The windmill is on private property. Admire and photograph it from the designated viewing areas. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Hike

The walk up offers stunning views. Embrace the journey and the beautiful Chilterns landscape. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(98 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Cobstone Windmill for its iconic status, especially its connection to 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', and the breathtaking panoramic views from Turville Hill. While the windmill itself is private property and not accessible internally, the scenic walk and the picturesque surroundings are consistently highlighted as major draws. Some note the challenging steepness of the walk and limited parking in Turville village.

"It is situated in a beautiful landscape
Top of a hill
Nike hike up to get there if you wish
Mull is private property so you can see it from outside the property perimeter
Beautiful views around"

Irene Viglia Atton

"A small but steep hill walk up to the windmill from the village Turville. Parking in the village is very limited. If you do walk up the hill you can't see the windmill until you get right to the top and the is a wooden fence to look over to see the windmill."

Chris Arnott

"Iconic Windmill. We think the best views of the windmill are from Turville Village and didn't have time to walk up for a closer look. The steep hill probably played a big part in our decision and the pub beckoned."

Mark Poley

What People Like

Iconic windmill views
Stunning hill panoramas
Charming village setting

What People Dislike

Steep hill climb
Limited parking
Private property access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cobstone Windmill is located atop Turville Hill, near the village of Turville in Buckinghamshire. The most common approach is to park in Turville village and walk up the steep hill. Limited parking is available in the village, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

While direct public transport to Turville can be limited, you can reach nearby towns like Henley-on-Thames or High Wycombe by bus or train and then take a taxi or local bus service to Turville. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

The most popular way is to hike up from Turville village. Be prepared for a steep incline. Alternatively, if you are exploring the Chilterns by car, you can find public footpaths that lead to the windmill from various points in the surrounding countryside. Reddit

No, Cobstone Windmill is on private land and not accessible by car. The final approach is on foot via public footpaths. Reddit

Yes, numerous public footpaths crisscross the Chiltern Hills. The most direct route is from Turville village, but you can also find longer, more scenic walks that incorporate the windmill. Ordnance Survey maps are helpful for planning these routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cobstone Windmill is privately owned and not open for public tours. There are no tickets required to view it from the outside. Reddit

As it's an exterior view only, there are no official opening hours. You can view the windmill from the perimeter fence during daylight hours. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for viewing the windmill from the public footpath. The surrounding landscape is part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Reddit

No, the windmill is privately owned and not accessible to the public. Access is restricted to viewing from the outside perimeter. Reddit

The main restriction is that you cannot enter the private property where the windmill stands. Please respect the fences and stick to public footpaths. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photographic opportunities are from the public footpath at the top of Turville Hill, offering views of the windmill and the surrounding landscape. You can also capture it from various points within Turville village. Reddit

Absolutely! The rolling Chiltern Hills provide a stunning backdrop. The views from Turville Hill are particularly breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

Due to it being private property and potentially near residential areas, it's advisable to check local drone regulations and obtain permission before flying a drone near Cobstone Windmill. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Autumn also offers beautiful colours. Reddit

Many visitors capture the windmill with the village of Turville in the background, or from a slightly elevated position on the hill to showcase the scale of the landscape. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The main activity is admiring the iconic windmill from the outside and enjoying the spectacular panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills and Turville village. It's a great spot for a scenic walk. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to enjoy the walk up the hill, take photos, and soak in the views. If you plan to explore Turville village, add more time. Reddit

The walk from Turville village to the windmill is described as steep. It requires a reasonable level of fitness, and sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Reddit

Restrooms and cafes are not typically found at the windmill itself. You'll find amenities in Turville village, including a historic pub. Reddit

Built around 1816, it was a working smock mill. It gained fame after being restored for the film 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' and has since appeared in other productions. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Nature & Surroundings

You'll find beautiful rolling hills of the Chilterns, picturesque countryside, sheep-dotted fields, and charming rural landscapes. It's a classic English countryside scene. Reddit

Yes, the Chilterns are renowned for their extensive network of public footpaths and walking trails, offering opportunities for both short strolls and longer hikes. Reddit

You might see sheep grazing in the fields, various bird species, and other common countryside wildlife. The area is rich in natural beauty. Reddit

Each season offers a unique charm. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, autumn provides vibrant foliage, and winter can offer stark, beautiful landscapes. Reddit

The windmill stands proudly atop Turville Hill, serving as a distinctive landmark against the backdrop of the gentle, undulating Chiltern Hills, enhancing the idyllic rural setting. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The steep hill walk to Cobstone Windmill might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. However, if your family enjoys a bit of an adventure and has appropriate footwear, the hike can be a fun experience. The views from the top are spectacular and can spark imagination, especially if children are familiar with 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. Reddit

Consider packing snacks and drinks as facilities are limited at the windmill site. The surrounding fields can be a great place for children to explore (under supervision), and the picturesque village of Turville offers a peaceful spot for a break. Remember to emphasize respecting the private property and staying on marked paths. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For hikers, Cobstone Windmill offers a rewarding destination within the beautiful Chiltern Hills. The walk up from Turville is a good workout, and the panoramic views from the summit are a significant draw. You can incorporate the windmill visit into longer treks through the area, utilizing the extensive network of public footpaths. Reddit

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquil rural scenery, the rolling hills, and the chance to spot local wildlife. Visiting in different seasons, from the wildflowers of spring to the autumnal colours, offers varied experiences. The area is perfect for photography and simply enjoying the peace of the countryside. Reddit

🎬 Film Buffs and Nostalgia Seekers

If you're a fan of classic cinema, a visit to Cobstone Windmill is a must. Its iconic status as Caractacus Potts' home in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' makes it a pilgrimage site for many. While you can't go inside, standing outside and imagining the scenes from the movie can be a magical experience. Reddit

Beyond 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', its appearances in 'Goodnight Mister Tom', 'Jonathan Creek', and 'Midsomer Murders' add to its allure. The windmill serves as a tangible link to these beloved productions, offering a unique blend of historical interest and pop culture nostalgia. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cinematic Legacy of Cobstone Windmill

Cobstone Windmill is more than just a historic structure; it's a piece of cinematic history. Its most famous role was as the quirky home of Caractacus Potts in the beloved 1968 musical film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The windmill was cosmetically restored for the movie, gaining a new cap, sails, and fantail, which cemented its iconic status in popular culture. Reddit

Beyond its starring role in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', Cobstone Windmill has graced the screens of numerous other productions. It has appeared in the heartwarming drama Goodnight Mister Tom, the intriguing mystery series Jonathan Creek, and the ever-popular crime drama Midsomer Murders. This recurring presence in British television and film has solidified its reputation as a recognizable and cherished landmark. Reddit

While visitors cannot enter the windmill, its enduring presence in these films allows people to connect with its history and charm from afar. The surrounding landscape, which served as a backdrop for these cinematic moments, further enhances the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the idyllic English countryside that has captivated audiences for decades. Reddit

Navigating the Turville Hill Hike

The journey to Cobstone Windmill involves a steep hill walk from the charming village of Turville. This hike is a significant part of the experience, offering rewarding views as you ascend. Visitors consistently mention the incline, so wearing sturdy, comfortable footwear is crucial. Reddit

Parking in Turville village is very limited, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Some visitors opt to park in nearby villages and walk to Turville, or use public transport to reach the general area and then make their way to the village. Reddit

Once you reach the top, you'll find a wooden fence marking the perimeter of the private property. From here, you can get excellent views of the windmill and the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Chiltern Hills and the surrounding countryside. The effort of the climb is well worth the stunning scenery. Reddit

Exploring the Surrounding Chilterns

Cobstone Windmill is nestled within the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a region renowned for its natural beauty and extensive network of walking trails. The landscape is characterized by rolling chalk downs, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages like Turville itself. Reddit

Visitors can extend their trip by exploring the numerous public footpaths that crisscross the area. These trails cater to all levels of fitness, from gentle strolls through meadows to more challenging hikes up and down the hills. The opportunity to see sheep grazing in the fields and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside is a major draw. Reddit

Turville village, at the foot of the hill, is also worth exploring. It boasts a historic pub, adding to the quintessential English village experience. The combination of the iconic windmill, the stunning natural landscape, and the charming village makes for a delightful day out in the heart of the English countryside. Reddit

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