Buckinghamshire
Just a short journey northwest of London, the dense beechwood forests of the Chilterns meet the soft rolling hills and lush wooded valleys of the Vale of Aylesbury, archetypal of the delightful Buckinghamshire landscape.
Miles of footpaths ramble through the region alongside momentous waterways such as the Thames and Grand Union Canal, motivating the whole family to get out and get active. But it’s not all about being outdoors, just as much fun can be had inside investigating Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage at a fascinating museum orre-living the great age of steam trains aboard an original iron horse.
Things to do in Buckinghamshire for kids
Bletchley Park
Bletchley Park was the base for many an unsung hero of WWII, and played host to some of the UK's brightest minds which were focused on enemy decrypting codes, most famously the German Enigma machine. Seeing one of the Enigma Machines is undoubtedly a highlight of a busy day out at Bletchley Park but there are more than enough different activities and exhibitions to occupy your family for the whole day, from wartime toys to working computers.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre is a working steam museum where families can step back in time and view the giants of the steam age displayed in the spacious 25 acre site. The regular ‘Days out with Thomas’ events are a must for Thomas the Tank Engine fans. Hop onboard Thomas and take a steam ride for all the family, with great entertainment including magic shows, Punch ‘n’ Judy and storytelling.
Chiltern Open Air Museum
Visit the award winning Chiltern Open Air Museum with your family and take a hands-on journey through 2000 years of living history. The past is captured perfectly in a collection of genuine historic buildings, rescued and reconstructed on 45 acres of rolling countryside and woodland. Visitors can enjoy craft demonstrations and hands-on activity workshops during the weekends, or visit the animals at the onsite farm.
Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
Set in Roald Dahls hometown of Great Missenden, The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre is aimed at 6 to 12 year olds and their families. The Museum is designed to inspire creativity in children. There are two fun and fact packed biographical galleries and a fantabulous Story Centre where you can make a movie, make up your own words, and much more. In the school holidays and at weekends this is an exciting range of workshops, events and free storytelling sessions.
Waddesdon Manor
Waddesdon Manor is a fabulous Renaissance-style château which was built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to display his outstanding collection of art treasures. As well as plenty to see inside, there are fabulous gardens to explore. Follow the explorer trail around the gardens and discover all sorts of fascinating facts about animals and plants along the way. The Woodland Playground and Amphitheatre are favourites for all ages.
