Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust at The Old Gaol
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
The Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust, housed within the historic Old Gaol in Buckingham, preserves the rich military heritage of Buckinghamshire from the 1500s onward. Exhibits include uniforms, flags, weapons, and unique collections such as military musical instruments. Located on Market Hill, the museum offers insight into local military and social history, with original prison cells integrated into the displays.
A brief summary to Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
- Market Hill, Buckingham, MK18 1JX, GB
- +441280823020
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, to explore the museum’s full range of exhibits.
- Take time to view the original prison cells integrated into the museum for a unique historical perspective.
- Look out for special exhibitions and commemorative events hosted by the Trust throughout the year.
- Adults pay a modest entrance fee of around £3.50, with discounts available for armed forces personnel.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train and Walk
Travel by train to Buckingham railway station, approximately 3 km from the museum. From the station, enjoy a 35-minute walk through the town center along accessible pavements. No direct public transport links serve the museum from the station, so walking is recommended.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Buckingham with surrounding towns. Take a bus to the Buckingham Market Hill stop, a short walk from the museum. Bus frequency varies, with typical journey times around 15-30 minutes from nearby towns. Check local timetables for current schedules.
-
Car
Driving to the museum is convenient, with public parking available near Buckingham town center. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour. The historic town center has some pedestrianized streets, so park in designated areas and walk to Market Hill.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
A Legacy of Local Military Heritage
The Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust (BMMT) was established in 1985 to preserve and showcase the military history of Buckinghamshire, focusing on the county’s amateur forces raised since the 1500s. These include the Militia, Yeomanry, Volunteers, Territorials, and Home Guard, reflecting the county’s role in home defense against threats from the Spanish Armada through to World War II and beyond. The Trust’s extensive collections encompass uniforms, flags, weapons, equipment, documents, paintings, and photographs, illustrating both the military and social significance of these citizen soldiers within their communities.The Historic Setting of The Old Gaol
The museum is located in the Old Gaol building on Market Hill, Buckingham, a site steeped in history itself. Sometimes called Lord Cobham’s Castle, this former prison has been sensitively adapted to house the museum’s exhibitions. Visitors can explore original prison cells that remain part of the structure, providing a tangible connection to the past. The Old Gaol also functions as a tourist information center and shop, making it a central cultural hub in Buckingham’s town center.Exhibits and Collections
The museum’s displays include a remarkable collection of military musical instruments, such as early rope-tensioned side drums, alongside a wide range of artifacts representing the county’s military units. These exhibits highlight the dual role of the forces—not only as defenders but also as visible and active members of local society. The museum’s holdings also include documents and photographs that trace the evolution of local military involvement through centuries of conflict.Community Engagement and Commemorations
BMMT actively participates in commemorative events, including centenary celebrations of the Great War and the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. The Trust supports county-wide projects and exhibitions that honor the sacrifices and contributions of Buckinghamshire’s servicemen and women. Through these activities, the museum fosters a deeper understanding of the county’s military past and its ongoing legacy.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Buckinghamshire Military Museum experience a blend of historic ambiance and educational insight. The Old Gaol’s preserved architecture and evocative cells create an immersive environment, while the carefully curated exhibits offer detailed narratives of local military history. The museum’s location in the heart of Buckingham allows visitors to combine their visit with exploration of the town’s other historic and cultural attractions.Supporting the Museum and Further Information
The Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust welcomes support from visitors and the local community. Opportunities include becoming a friend of the Trust or contributing to ongoing projects. The museum also offers expert assistance for those researching local military history or family connections to Buckinghamshire’s armed forces. Regular updates and event information are available through the Trust’s communications channels.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northampton Castle Postern Gate
26.9 km
Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
St Martin's Church
31.2 km
Medieval roots, Victorian restoration, and Churchill's final resting place in rural Oxfordshire.
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
31.6 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
32.6 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
Godstow Abbey
32.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Godstow Abbey, a tranquil ruin near Oxford, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
New College Ln
32.9 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
32.9 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Weston Library
32.9 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Clarendon Building
32.9 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
City Sightseeing Oxford
32.9 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
32.9 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
Magdalen Bridge
32.9 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Bodleian Library
32.9 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
The Queen's College
33.0 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
The Sheldonian Theatre
33.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of The Sheldonian Theatre, a historic performing arts gem in the heart of Oxford.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
0.0 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Buckingham Old Gaol
0.1 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
St Rumbold's Well
0.8 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
Pebble Alcove
3.4 km
Explore Pebble Alcove in Buckingham, a stunning landmark that combines unique architecture with serene natural beauty for a perfect getaway.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
3.6 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Temple of British Worthies
3.7 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Gothic Temple
3.8 km
Experience the charm and architectural beauty of the Gothic Temple, an iconic landmark in Buckingham that transports you to a romantic past.
Claydon Estate
9.0 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
National Trust - Claydon
9.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Finemere Wood
12.7 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Bicester Heritage
14.2 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Quainton Windmill
14.7 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
15.6 km
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
Upside Down House - Milton Keynes
16.4 km
Step into a vibrant, gravity-defying world at Milton Keynes’ Upside Down House—where every room flips your perspective and sparks playful photo fun.
The National Museum of Computing
16.7 km
Explore the world’s largest collection of working historic computers at Bletchley Park’s iconic National Museum of Computing.
Essential places to dine
Beefeater Buckingham
1.5 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Allium Dining
1.6 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Old Thatched Inn
5.5 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Folly
13.7 km
A charming British inn in Towcester offering generous portions of classic dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Pilgrim Pub
13.8 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
CANALETTO
15.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Plough At Shutlanger
16.1 km
A charming English country pub in Shutlanger offering locally sourced British fare, traditional ales, and a warm countryside atmosphere.
Cecconi's Bicester
16.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
The Five Arrows
17.8 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
The Orangery at RH England
18.2 km
Elegant live-fire dining in a grand orangery with scenic deer park views and refined, high-quality cuisine in Aynho Park.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
18.4 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
Little Gems Country Dining
19.9 km
Experience refined country dining with cozy charm and quality cuisine in the heart of Milton Keynes.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
20.6 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
Nut Tree Inn
21.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
Harvester Grange Park Northampton
21.7 km
Family-friendly British grill with a fresh unlimited salad bar and welcoming atmosphere in Northampton’s Grange Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Beautifully Different Winslow
9.8 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Mrs B's Emporium
13.8 km
Discover quirky gifts, handmade candles, and unique homewares in a cozy, friendly shop nestled in Wolverton’s historic Church Street.
Menkind
16.7 km
Discover quirky gadgets, unique gifts, and fun toys at Menkind Milton Keynes, your go-to spot for playful and tech-inspired shopping.
Rabbit Retail
22.6 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
B&M Home Store
23.4 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
23.5 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
The Vintage Shop
23.6 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
Shop of magical requirements
23.7 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
23.7 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
One Beyond Aylesbury
23.7 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vast range of essentials at One Beyond Aylesbury, your go-to discount store in the heart of Hale Leys.
The Works
23.7 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
Aylesbury Eco Store
23.8 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
House of Fraser
23.8 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
23.8 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
0.1 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
0.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
Be At One - Milton Keynes
15.9 km
Discover over 100 expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant nightlife energy at Be At One, Milton Keynes’ premier cocktail bar in The Hub.
Jolly Hucksters Ltd- Mobile Bar Company
17.7 km
Milton Keynes’ trusted family-run mobile bar, delivering bespoke drink experiences and exceptional service to weddings and events.
The Cock At Roade
18.8 km
A classic village pub in Roade offering hearty British fare, excellent beer, and a warm, friendly atmosphere near Northampton.
Cotton Wheel
21.6 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watermead Inn
22.5 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
Wig & Walnut
22.5 km
A charming, affordable pub in Grange Park offering quality food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Emperors Lounge
23.5 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
The Rockwood
23.6 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
The Feathers Aylesbury
23.6 km
A lively Aylesbury pub blending traditional charm, modern sports viewing, and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Kingsbury Square.
The King's Head, Aylesbury
23.7 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
Craftyard Aylesbury
23.9 km
A stylish, family-run craft beer and gin bar in Aylesbury with an industrial-chic vibe inspired by London’s vibrant streets.
The Bugle Horn
24.1 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Old Millwrights Arms
24.4 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garudaa
16.2 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Pink Punters
18.8 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Mirage Aylesbury
23.5 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
Stereo Bar and Club
26.8 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
Elysium
26.9 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
NB's
26.9 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Club43
26.9 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
The Platform
27.0 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
The Boston
27.1 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
Club Bar X
27.8 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
27.8 km
Energetic nightclub on Wellingborough Road offering lively music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of Northampton.
TWC
28.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Fever Oxford
33.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
33.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
33.5 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
