A Visitor's Introduction to Buckinghamshire

Why is Buckinghamshire Worth a Visit?

Buckinghamshire is worth visiting for its incredible variety of attractions, from the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to grand estates like Waddesdon Manor and Stowe House. The county is dotted with historic market towns, such as Marlow, Amersham, and Buckingham, each offering unique character and charm. Buckinghamshire is also steeped in literary history, being the home of authors such as John Milton, Roald Dahl, and Enid Blyton.

The county’s mix of scenic landscapes, quaint villages, and proximity to London makes it an ideal escape for anyone seeking nature, culture, and history all in one. Its network of walking and cycling trails, traditional English pubs, and heritage attractions provide a quintessentially British experience that is both relaxing and enriching.

Buckinghamshire Highlights: Things to See and Do in Buckinghamshire

1. Waddesdon Manor
One of the county’s most iconic landmarks, Waddesdon Manor is a French Renaissance-style château built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the late 19th century. Now owned by the National Trust, the manor is famous for its magnificent art collection, lavish interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms, take a stroll through the immaculate grounds, and even visit the Rothschild Wine Cellars. The manor is especially magical during the Christmas season, with festive light displays and markets.

2. Chiltern Hills AONB
The Chiltern Hills are one of Buckinghamshire's greatest natural treasures. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers rolling green landscapes, woodlands, and charming villages. The Ridgeway National Trail, one of Britain’s oldest footpaths, runs through the Chilterns, offering spectacular views and a chance to explore ancient landmarks like Whiteleaf Cross. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the stunning countryside. The Chilterns are also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

3. Stowe House and Gardens
Stowe House, located near Buckingham, is a stunning 18th-century mansion surrounded by equally impressive landscape gardens designed by Capability Brown. The house, now a school, is open for guided tours, offering insights into its history and the aristocratic families who once lived there. The gardens are part of the National Trust and are famous for their classical temples, ornamental lakes, and sweeping vistas. It’s a peaceful place to wander and enjoy the beauty of English landscape design.

4. Bletchley Park
Bletchley Park, near Milton Keynes, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This historic estate was the top-secret centre for British codebreakers during World War II, where figures like Alan Turing worked to crack the German Enigma code. Today, it’s a fascinating museum that brings to life the stories of the men and women who worked there, with interactive exhibits, original equipment, and beautifully restored wartime buildings.

5. Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
Located in Great Missenden, where the famous author Roald Dahl lived and wrote for 36 years, the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre is a delightful visit for both children and adults. The museum is filled with interactive displays, original manuscripts, and insights into Dahl’s creative process. Visitors can explore the quaint village of Great Missenden itself, which inspired many settings in Dahl’s beloved stories like Matilda and The BFG.

6. Cliveden House and Gardens
Cliveden House, now a luxury hotel, is a stately home perched on the banks of the River Thames. The house has a fascinating history, once being home to dukes, earls, and even royalty. The surrounding National Trust gardens are equally impressive, offering beautifully manicured lawns, formal gardens, and woodland walks with spectacular river views. The Cliveden Maze is a fun feature for families, and the house’s history adds to its allure as a grand destination.

7. Hughenden Manor
Hughenden Manor, near High Wycombe, was the home of Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. Now owned by the National Trust, the manor offers a fascinating insight into his life and political career. The house is filled with personal artefacts, and the surrounding gardens and parkland are perfect for a leisurely stroll. During World War II, Hughenden was used as a secret intelligence base, and exhibits also explore this lesser-known history of the estate.

8. Marlow
The riverside town of Marlow is one of Buckinghamshire’s gems, known for its Georgian architecture, pretty streets, and its iconic suspension bridge spanning the River Thames. Marlow is perfect for a relaxing day out, with scenic river walks, boutique shops, and riverside pubs. The town is also famous for its connection to Mary Shelley, who wrote Frankenstein while living here, and for being a haven for rowing enthusiasts.

9. Hellfire Caves
Located near West Wycombe, the Hellfire Caves are an intriguing and somewhat eerie network of man-made chalk and flint caves that were used in the 18th century by the infamous Hellfire Club, a group of aristocrats known for their mysterious and controversial activities. Visitors can explore the caves’ winding passages and learn about their history, adding a unique and quirky element to any trip to Buckinghamshire.

10. Wendover Woods
For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Wendover Woods is a fantastic spot for walking, cycling, and family fun. The woods offer miles of walking trails, beautiful views over the Chilterns, and picnic spots. There’s also a Go Ape treetop adventure for thrill-seekers, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers alike.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Buckinghamshire is well connected by road and rail. The M40 and M25 motorways make it easily accessible by car from London, Oxford, and Birmingham. By train, you can reach key towns like High Wycombe, Amersham, and Aylesbury from London in under an hour, with regular services departing from London Marylebone and Euston. The new East West Rail project, set to open soon, will also improve connections to towns like Winslow and Milton Keynes. For international visitors, Heathrow Airport is just a 30-40 minute drive from the southern parts of the county.

Parking:
Many of Buckinghamshire’s main attractions offer ample parking, though it’s always a good idea to check ahead, especially for popular National Trust properties. Town centres like Marlow and Amersham have paid parking options, though these can fill up quickly during weekends and busy periods.

Where to Stay:
Buckinghamshire offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious country hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. Cliveden House is one of the county’s most famous luxury hotels, perfect for those looking for a grand stay. Hartwell House near Aylesbury is another stunning hotel set in a historic building. For more budget-friendly options, the county’s villages offer charming B&Bs, and the town of Amersham has several boutique hotels with easy access to London.

Shopping:
Buckinghamshire’s market towns, particularly Amersham, Marlow, and Thame, are ideal for boutique shopping, with a range of independent stores, antique shops, and artisan markets. The nearby Bicester Village, just across the border in Oxfordshire, is a famous luxury outlet shopping destination, offering designer goods at discounted prices.

When to Visit:
Buckinghamshire is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are in spring and summer when the countryside is at its most vibrant, and the gardens of Waddesdon Manor and Cliveden are in full bloom. Autumn is also beautiful, with colourful foliage in the Chilterns and crisp country walks. If you enjoy Christmas markets and festive lights, winter is a lovely time to visit places like Waddesdon Manor and the market towns, which come alive with seasonal cheer.

Local Events:
The county hosts a range of events throughout the year, from the annual Henley Regatta on the Thames to village fêtes and food festivals. The Marlow Regatta is a highlight for rowing enthusiasts, while Bucks County Show in Aylesbury is a classic country fair showcasing local produce, crafts, and livestock. Waddesdon Manor's Christmas markets are also not to be missed, drawing visitors from across the region.

Exploring Beyond Buckinghamshire:
If you have time to explore further afield, Buckinghamshire’s neighbouring counties also offer fantastic day trips. Oxford, with its historic university and museums, is just a short drive away, as is the vibrant town of Milton Keynes, known for its modern shopping and entertainment options. Oxford and Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are also within easy reach for those seeking even more historical and cultural treasures.