Liberty’s connection, TV locations and village life

Fans of Midsomer Murders will instantly recognise The Lee, frequently featured as the quintessential English village.

The village owes much of its character to Sir Arthur Lasenby Liberty, founder of the Liberty department store, whose family’s business began in Chesham High Street. As squire of the Manor at The Lee, Sir Arthur replanned the delightful village green, other picturesque dwellings and the Cock and Rabbit Inn.

The Lee is abuzz with traditional village events. These include the Church Fete in June, The Lee Flower Show in July, and The Shop at The Lee Christmas Food and Gift Market in November. There are also regular village walks and concerts at the Old Church.

Pubs and village shop

Cock and Rabbit

Rebuilt by Sir Arthur in 1907 because it spoilt his view, the The Cock and Rabbit Inn and garden enjoy an idyllic setting beside the green. This hub of community life includes Caféau Lee on the site, welcomed by the many walkers and cyclists who visit the village. Outdoor seating, quiz night and food at the bar.

The Old Swan pub*

The Old Swan pub lies just beyond the crossroads at Swan Bottom. Dating from the 16th century.
*Note: as of 24 June 2024 The Old Swan is closed until further notice.

Shop at The Lee

Located beside the Parish Hall, owned by the community and largely run by volunteers. The Shop at The Lee is well stocked to meet daily needs, with special treats including bread, meat, biscuits and other produce from local suppliers. Sandwiches and coffee are popular with walkers and cyclists for picnics on the move.

Historical sites

St John the Baptist Church, and The Old Church

Two churches share the church yard at The Lee, just a short walk from the village green. The small chapel of ease, which dates from the 12th century, is now known as The Lee Old Church. It hides behind the red brick church built in the 1860s which was enhanced with funding from Sir Arthur Liberty and has many fixtures and fittings designed and made in the Liberty workshops. The peaceful churchyard is managed for wildlife and is a rewarding spot for nature lovers.

Admiral Lord Howe Figurehead

In 1926, Sir Arthur Liberty bought the hulk of The Royal Navy’s last wooden warship, HMS Impregnable, previously called HMS Howe. The ship’s timbers were used in the mock Tudor extension to the Liberty store in London. In 1953 the imposing ship’s figurehead of Admiral Lord Howe was installed at the gates of Pipers, the home built for Ivor Stewart-Liberty, Sir Arthur’s heir.

Lee Common and Lee Manor Park

Lee Common centres around Oxford Street, a narrow lane of pleasing cottages and houses which emerges close to the Parish Hall and shop. The Grade II Listed Jubilee Well in Oxford Street was completed in 1897, the year of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, and served the village until the 1950s. Funded by public subscription, it was commissioned by Sir Arthur Liberty and designed by Liberty’s craftsmen. The 365 foot well was dug by hand with candles for illumination. Water was drawn up in counter acting 25-gallon buckets, raised by means of the handle on the left.

Lee Manor Park is a secluded pasture tucked away behind Lee Common village school. Once part of the parkland of The Lee Manor, it is reached from Oxford Street by a public footpath beside Lee Common School.

Walks

Ballinger and The Lee Walk

This 7.2km (4.5 mile) route with a 4km (2.5 mile) option follows footpaths and tracks through fields and woodlands, visiting the village green at The Lee.

Pub Walks

Cock and Rabbit to The Old Swan

An easy 30-minute 1.1 mile walk Stage 2 of an 11 mile circular route between pubs to the north-west of Chesham. Please note The Old swan is currently closed until further notice.

Pdf of leaflet including map – Cock and Rabbit to The Old Swan walk

The Old Swan to The White Lion

An easy 45 -minute walk of 1.8 miles. Stage 3 of an 11 mile circular route between pubs to the north-west of Chesham. Starting at The Old Swan (currently closed), Swan Bottom and finishing at The White Lion, St Leonards.

Pdf of leaflet including map – Old Swan to White Lion