Buckingham

About

Once the county town of Buckinghamshire, as granted by Alfred the Great, Buckingham has had an abundance of historical references throughout the centuries. The town is characterised by its fine array of Georgian buildings and the Old Gaol and Town Hall.

The Old Gaol was one of the first purpose-built county gaols in England but today it houses a museum telling the complete history of Buckingham. You can find fascinating displays ranging from the Jurassic period through to the Viking occupation and on to the rich industrial history of the lace making era. The Gaol also contains the local tourist information office.

The tightly interwoven streets of the town are perfect for a gentle stroll to discover the many specialist shops, pubs and restaurants they contain. You can also take a walk up to the hill-top parish church of St Peter and St Paul or visit the Chantry Chapel, famous for being the oldest building in the town and for its unique Norman doorway.

Markets still play an important part in the town today with a street market every Tuesday and Saturday, farm shops and a local Farmers’ Market on the first Tuesday of the month. The town also hosts a country market, flea market, craft market and an annual French market.

What To Do

Summer festivals, heritage open days, annual Charter Fair, music concerts, exhibitions and an annual firework display, all make Buckingham an exciting place to visit whatever the time of year so see what's on with our Buckinghamshire event calendar.

Venturing just out of town, Stowe Landscape Gardens has been described as one of the greatest ever English landscape gardens. Explore over 40 monuments, temples and secret corners and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of ornamental lakes, wooded valleys and spectacular views. Another National Trust property nearby worth visiting is the historic house and gardens of Claydon.

To explore more towns and villages near Buckingham, or find things to do and places to eat, view our 'What's Nearby' listings below.