Located in South East England, Buckinghamshire is an affluent county admired for picturesque countryside and historic manor houses. A county steeped in history with captivating buildings and Chilterns landscapes, Buckinghamshire combines traditional English countryside charm, compelling historical events, and a rich sporting heritage. The county has been in existence since the 10th century and is formed from over 200 communities that inspired and nurtured authors such as Roald Dahl, Terry Pratchett, and T.S. Elliot.
With the extensive history of Buckinghamshire being so interesting, the list of activities and things to do in Buckinghamshire is boundless. We have singled out the top 10 things to do in 2024, to introduce you to one of the most desirable destinations in England, for fun and diverse experiences open to everyone.
1. Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park
Hogshaw Farm is an environmentally friendly rare breeds farm attraction, introducing the best of British farming and countryside. Spanning over 44 acres of beautiful, wide-open land, there is plenty of space to explore, relax, and create memorable moments with your loved ones. There are opportunities to get hands-on with rare breeds of European wildlife with the farms' activity programme. Alongside exploring the stunning nature trail, kids can go wild in the 3 play areas, including an outdoor bouncy pillow and pedal go-karts. Whilst they explore, enjoy a bite to eat at the Farm kitchen, supplying homemade food from local producers, and you have yourself a special day out with the family, with activities for everyone.
2. Chiltern Open Air Museum
An award-winning educational facility, Chiltern Open Air Museum owns an eclectic collection of outstanding rescued and reconstructed historic buildings. This includes WW1 and WW2 Nissen huts, a replica Iron Age roundhouse, a mediaeval barn, and more. It offers a glimpse into the vast historical background of Buckinghamshire, alongside having a working historic farm. During your visit, there are activities continuously throughout the day including historical re-enactment, learning traditional heritage skills and living history. After a day of walking around the fascinating buildings, there is a delightful little tea room serving light lunches to wrap up your brilliant historical day.
3. Bletchley Park
Bletchley Park is a place of exceptional historical importance. It played a major role in World War II with the British codebreaking, producing secret intelligence to influence the outcome of conflict. A once top-secret world, Bletchley Park has iconic code-breaking huts and Victorian estate blocks. Globally known as the birthplace of technology, all visitors can enjoy a full day out through exhibitions including immersive cinematic experiences, the largest display of Enigma machines alongside other pivotal war time moments. You can explore the site in your own time, as well as taking part in a top secret mission pack and code-breaking challenges. Come and discover the history of technological excellence and groundbreaking intelligence.
4. Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
A magical museum providing you with an insight into the World’s No.1 storyteller. The museum is located in the village Dahl wrote in for over 36 years, and offers endless amounts of fun with an unlimited return for 12 months with the purchase of just one ticket. Activities range from arts and crafts, a walk around the areas where Dahl’s inspiration flourished, or a visit to Fantastic Mr.Fox’s living room. There is also an opportunity to enjoy lunch through the Wonka gates and sit in the courtyard. Storytelling, writing, and some great fun, all in a little museum admiring one of Buckinghamshire’s amazing writers.
5. Danesfield House Hotel and Spa
Offering a relaxing day admiring the Chiltern Hills, Danesfield House Hotel is the perfect location to enjoy some of the most spectacular views in Buckinghamshire. Between the market towns of Marlow and Henley, the hotel is set over 65 acres of incredible landscaped gardens and a view of the River Thames. With over 55 individually designed luxury rooms, you can choose from traditional country houses or contemporary styles. To complement your stay, the hotel offers a world of relaxation at Spa Illuminata supplying an indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and a wide range of treatments, ready for a night of indulgent pampering.
6. Queens Park Arts Centre and Limelight Theatre
Offering 70 weekly outstanding arts classes, Queens Park Centre has an activity for everyone in the family, for every day of the week. From painting and pottery to drama and circus skills, the unique classes offer something new and different to try. The Limelight Theatre offers affordable access to entertaining professional live theatre, hilarious comedy, and talented musicians. Eddie Izzard, Joe Brand, and Lee Evans are some of the brilliant people who have performed here. The centre has a lively, friendly atmosphere to enjoy an evening with friends with a crisp cold beer.
7. Bekonscot Model Village and Railway
The world’s oldest original model village and railway, which first opened in 1929, Bekonscot is open to visitors of all ages. A miniature wonderland awaiting to be explored, there are remote-controlled boats, a sit-on railway, and kids' rides for a day of fun-filled play. Over the years, Bekonscot has had many Royal Visits including Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth II. If Royalty loves exploring the village, you will too. The village inspired Enid Blyton’s book ‘Enchanted Village’, so it is definitely worth a visit. There is also a tea room and a little gift shop to remember your trip as one of the best.
8. Waddesdon Manor
An 1870s French Renaissance-style chateau, Waddesdon Manor is a captivating display of exquisite architecture. Set in 5000 acres of parkland, families can explore Waddesdon with seasonal trails as an all-year-round activity. The manor houses the finest collections of French 18th-century decorative arts with the Coach House gallery displaying exhibitions. Inside the cellars and wine shop contains one of the largest collections of Rothschild wines, vinified from the famous Bordeaux vineyards. The Manor offers magnificent wine-tasting events throughout the year for wine lovers and those eager to learn more. An elegant setting, boundless greenery for kids to run, and delicate wines to taste, this classical Manor is definitely worth the visit.
9. Silverstone Racing Venue
The legendary home of the British Grand Prix and MotoGP events, Silverstone is a racing circuit in Buckinghamshire where some of the best races have taken place in the world. Originally a World War II airfield, Silverstone was opened as a race track in 1948. Experience the speed yourself in bookings of single-seaters, Ferrari, or Mercedes experiences. The state-of-the-art facilities and outdoor space provide an immersive experience, whether it be watching a race or taking one of the remarkable tours. Visit race control where all the behind-the-scenes action occurs, and have the drive of a lifetime – one not to be missed.
10. Go Ape Wendover
With all the beautiful woodland and towering trees, Go Ape has combined adventure with natural beauty in the high rope course. A day for the whole family, you can enjoy taking on epic zip wires, Tarzan swings, rope ladders, and many other obstacles. With over three hours of fun in the tree canopy, Go Ape is an incredible way to explore the great outdoors. Don’t worry if you are nervous about heights, the great team at Go Ape provides a safety briefing to ensure you are confident in the course. Once you’ve completed the course, you will want to do it over and over again.
Buckinghamshire is a county that provides endless activities, things to do and places to go that will brighten up your day. With its rich history of outstanding events over time, it is a remarkable place to learn and adventure with every member of the family. The most picturesque towns and villages in all of England that boast a wealth of must-see attractions and great spots, it is the right time to experience how memorable Buckinghamshire is.
