The Rolling Pin – the mystery of the mound!

Ever wondered what that mound surrounded by trees is?

The circular earth mound ringed by trees located in the Upper Park is known locally as the Rolling Pin. But what is it?
For many years it was thought to be a prehistoric bowl barrow and it was given a Scheduled Monument listing accordingly. It was also rumoured to be the location of Chesham’s long lost Windmill.

Others believed that the mound was the site of a seventeenth century smock mill. And yet more locals thought it may also have been used as a belvedere tower.

However, a 2012 investigation by the Chess Valley Archaeological & Historical Society (CVAHS) revealed that although it has a foundation of bricks, it was not strong enough to support a building so was maybe for a viewing platform. This then became a dumping ground for, amongst other things, 200 wine bottles C. 1800 so it is in fact a rubbish tip, albeit a rather old one!

Disappointing as this is, it’s a great place to visit. Children love to play on and around it and the view from this area of the Park extends out across Chesham town to the hills beyond and on to the Chilterns. There is a now an interpretation board nearby that tells you more about the town and surrounding area.

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