Little Missenden: Wall Paintings, Festival and Walking Routes

Little Missenden combines a long religious history with a musical tradition and opportunities to explore on foot or by bike. At its heart is St John the Baptist, with wall paintings dating from the late 12th century; the festival’s history and routes of varying lengths offer other ways to experience the village. This makes it easy to plan your trip around your interests: church art, contemporary music or outdoor activity amid the village and river landscape.

St John the Baptist: Wall Paintings and Church History

St John the Baptist has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 1,000 years. The Church of England dates the founding of the church to 975; it is also listed as a Grade I listed building. The Little Missenden Conservation Area was designated in 1971.

The medieval wall paintings date from the late 12th century and were first uncovered in 1931. In 2017, the wall paintings in the nave and throughout the church were conserved and restored. These dates mark different stages: their creation, discovery and later conservation work. For art enthusiasts, what makes them special is not only their age, but also their history of discovery and restoration.

St John the Baptist is a place for private prayer and visits. Visitor interpretation includes a visitor facility, an introductory film, a digital guide and digital reconstructions of the wall paintings. Tours for small and large groups are available on request. Cream teas are served on Sundays from May to September. Check the current availability of the facilities and seasonal offering before your visit.

There is a small car park at the Village Hall for visitors to the church; from there, it is a 10-minute walk. Check local parking conditions before travelling.

Festival Tradition and Contemporary Music

The village of Little Missenden has held an annual festival without interruption for more than 60 years. Since its founding, the festival has focused on contemporary music and has also consistently commissioned new music. Alongside the historic church art, this provides a musical focus on contemporary music and new works. As the annual programme changes, check the dates for the edition that fits your trip.

On Foot and by Bike: Routes Through Little Missenden

The 4¾-mile circular walk, “Traditional Chiltern industries,” passes through Little Missenden and can be started in the village. It leads to Little Missenden Mill House, which was called Sibley's Mill. Its chimney still stands, while the building is a private home. The route combines a circular walk with a specific link to local industrial history.

Section 20 of the cycling guide offers a different perspective: the route runs from Amersham through Little Missenden and along the River Misbourne towards Great Kingshill. Near Little Missenden, the River Misbourne is a chalk stream and is considered a wildlife habitat of international rarity. While the walking route is a loop through the village, the cycling guide describes a route between several named places. Check the current conditions for your chosen route before setting out.

Discover more destinations: West Wycombe, Iver, Stokenchurch, Worminghall, Wing, Weston Turville, Marlow, Adstock

For the wider travel guide: Buckinghamshire.