Buckingham Travel Guide

Plan your next vacation to Buckingham with this comprehensive travel guide, covering places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Buckingham

Buckingham is a charming town located in Buckinghamshire, South East England. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush green countryside, this town offers a relaxing getaway for anyone seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Buckingham

Visitors to Buckingham will not be short of things to see and do. Here are the must-visit attractions in and around the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stowe House: A magnificent Georgian mansion with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Buckingham Old Gaol Museum: A museum housed in a former prison, showcasing the history of crime and punishment in Buckingham.
  • Claydon House: A grand country house with beautiful gardens and a fascinating history.

Natural Attractions of Buckingham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buckingham Canal Walk: A peaceful walk along the canal, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Chiltern Hills: A range of hills with breathtaking scenery and numerous hiking trails.
  • Wendover Woods: A beautiful forest with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buckingham

Buckingham is the perfect base for outdoor activities, with plenty of hiking and biking trails nearby. Some of the must-try routes include:

  • The Buckinghamshire Railway Centre Walk: A 6.5-mile circular walk, taking in the sights of the local countryside and the famous railway centre.
  • The Phoenix Trail: A 7-mile trail, offering a peaceful walk or bike ride through the Chiltern Hills.
  • The Tove Valley Walk: A 6-mile walk along the River Tove, through beautiful countryside and quaint villages.

Best Things to Do in Buckingham: Activities and Tours

In addition to the outdoor activities and cultural attractions, Buckingham offers a range of activities and tours. Some of the best ones are:

  • Buckingham Ghost Walks: A spooky tour of the town, led by a local guide, highlighting the eerie history of Buckingham.
  • Buckingham Town Walk: A guided walk through the town, showcasing the history and architecture of the town.
  • Chiltern Brewery Tour: A tour of a local brewery, including a beer tasting and information about the brewing process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buckingham

| Day | Activity | | ————- | ————- | | Day 1 | Explore Buckingham Old Gaol Museum and nearby Buckinghamshire Railway Centre Walk. | | Day 2 | Visit Stowe House and the surrounding gardens. | | Day 3 | Venture out to the Chiltern Hills for a day of hiking and enjoying the stunning views. | | Day 4 | Spend the day at Wendover Woods, walking or biking the beautiful trails. | | Day 5 | Take a spooky evening tour of Buckingham with Buckingham Ghost Walks. | | Day 6 | Explore the history of Claydon House and the nearby Tove Valley Walk. | | Day 7 | Go on a Chiltern Brewery Tour and drink up some local beer before you leave. |

Food and Drink Scene of Buckingham

Buckingham has a great food scene, with plenty of options for local and international cuisine. Make sure to try these must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buckinghamshire Pasty: A heartwarming pastry filled with meat and vegetables, a local specialty.
  • Banoffi Pie: A delicious dessert made with bananas, toffee, cream, and a crumbly biscuit base.

Local Beverages

  • Chiltern Brewery Beer: A local beer brewery with a range of delicious beers made with local ingredients.
  • Elderflower Cordial: A refreshing non-alcoholic beverage made with elderflower and sugar.

Where to Stay in Buckingham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Buckingham offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets. Some of the best ones are:

  • The White Hart: A historic coaching inn with comfortable rooms, great food, and a lively bar.
  • Vine House Boutique Hotel: A charming hotel with luxurious rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a bar.
  • The George Hotel: A traditional hotel with cozy rooms, a restaurant serving international cuisine, and a bar.

What to Buy in Buckingham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Buckingham is home to various traditional shops and markets, where you can find unique souvenirs and local products. Some of the best things to bring home are:

  • Buckinghamshire Lace: A delicate handmade lace that has been produced in the area for centuries.
  • Aylesbury Duck: A breed of duck originating from the area, available in various forms, from meat to stuffed toys.

Local Culture and Customs of Buckingham

Buckingham has a rich history and a unique local culture. Visitors should respect the local customs, including the use of polite language, tipping at restaurants and cafes, and dressing appropriately for the occasion.

Best Time to Visit Buckingham

Buckingham can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most attractions and outdoor activities are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buckingham

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately for the occasion.
  • Sample the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public areas.
  • Touch artifacts or exhibits in museums or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Buckingham is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take usual precautions to avoid any mishaps, such as not leaving valuables unattended or walking alone in secluded areas.

Safety in Buckingham

  • Stick to well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
  • Always lock your doors and windows.

Health in Buckingham

Buckingham has a number of medical facilities including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Make sure to obtain comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

Getting to Buckingham: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buckingham can be accessed via various transportation modes, including:

Airports Near Buckingham

  • London Luton Airport
  • London Heathrow Airport
  • London Gatwick Airport

Bus Stations Near Buckingham

  • Buckingham Bus Interchange

Other Options

  • Taxi or private car hire

How to Get Around in Buckingham

Buckingham is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. There are also taxis available for longer journeys, and car rentals for those wishing to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Buckingham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Buckingham is surrounded by various towns and cities that are worth a visit. Some of the best ones are:

  • Milton Keynes: A lively city with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Oxford: A picturesque university town with stunning architecture and rich history.
  • Aylesbury: A charming market town with traditional shops and picturesque surroundings.

Conclusion

Buckingham is a hidden gem in South East England, offering a mix of natural attractions, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Plan your visit to this charming town with this comprehensive travel guide, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful part of the world.

Buckingham Old Gaol Museum in the heart of the town centre Buckingham Old Gaol Museum in the heart of the town centre C14th Thornborough Bridge C14th Thornborough Bridge