Buckinghamshire is home to a significant portion of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This picturesque countryside offers rolling hills, beech woodlands, charming villages, and numerous walking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Part of the ancient Ridgeway Path, an iconic long-distance trail, runs through Buckinghamshire. This historic path is associated with prehistoric settlements, barrows, and ancient monuments, providing a unique opportunity for hikers and history enthusiasts to explore the region’s rich heritage.
The world-famous author Roald Dahl, known for his beloved children’s books such as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and “Matilda,” lived in Great Missenden, a village in Buckinghamshire. The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden is dedicated to his life and work.
Waddesdon Manor is a magnificent French Renaissance-style château, built in the late 19th century. It is located in Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire. Waddesdon Manor is known for its opulent interiors, extensive art collections, beautiful gardens, and hosting various cultural events throughout the year.
Situated on the Buckinghamshire-Northamptonshire border, Silverstone Circuit is a renowned motorsport venue and the home of the British Grand Prix. It hosts various motorsport events, including Formula One races, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.
One of the most famous landmarks in Buckinghamshire is Bletchley Park, the World War II code-breaking center. It is renowned for its crucial role in decrypting enemy codes, including the German Enigma machine, which significantly contributed to Allied victory. Bletchley Park is now a popular museum and heritage site.
Best places to live in Buckinghamshire
- Beaconsfield: Known for its affluent atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Beaconsfield offers a high standard of living with excellent schools, upscale shops, and beautiful countryside.
- Amersham: This charming market town combines a historic Old Town with modern amenities. It has good transport links, reputable schools, and a vibrant community.
- Marlow: Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, Marlow (see picture above) is a picturesque town known for its riverside walks, Michelin-starred restaurants, and lively high street.
- Gerrards Cross: A highly sought-after commuter town, Gerrards Cross boasts excellent transport connections to London, spacious properties, and a thriving village center.
- Chalfont St Giles: Surrounded by green fields and woodlands, Chalfont St Giles offers a peaceful countryside lifestyle. It has a rich history, good schools, and a strong sense of community.
- Princes Risborough: This market town combines a rural setting with convenient access to larger towns and cities. It has a friendly community, beautiful countryside, and good schools.
- Wendover: Situated in the Chiltern Hills, Wendover is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. It offers a range of amenities, including independent shops, cafes, and a weekly market.
- Great Missenden: Surrounded by rolling hills and charming countryside, Great Missenden is famous for being the home of children’s author Roald Dahl. It has excellent schools, picturesque walks, and a vibrant community.
- Woburn Sands: Although technically located in Milton Keynes, Woburn Sands is a popular choice due to its semi-rural feel, easy access to the countryside, and a range of amenities.
- Winslow: A historic market town with a rich heritage, Winslow offers a tranquil lifestyle, good schools, and easy access to major road and rail links.
The best schools in Buckinghamshire (not official rankings)
- Wycombe Abbey School – High Wycombe
- The Royal Grammar School – High Wycombe
- Dr Challoner’s Grammar School – Amersham
- Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School – Aylesbury
- Aylesbury Grammar School – Aylesbury
- The Beaconsfield School – Beaconsfield
- Wycombe High School – High Wycombe
- John Hampden Grammar School – High Wycombe
- Royal Latin School – Buckingham
- Dr Challoner’s High School – Little Chalfont