Discover Bucks Museum: A Journey Through Buckinghamshire’s Heritage
Explore Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage and family-friendly interactive exhibits at Discover Bucks Museum in historic Aylesbury.
Nestled in the historic heart of Aylesbury, Discover Bucks Museum offers an engaging exploration of Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage, from prehistoric times to the present. Its vast collections include archaeology, natural history, social history, and art, alongside the interactive Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery. Visitors can enjoy seasonal exhibitions, a charming walled garden, and a welcoming café, making it a family-friendly cultural gem.
A brief summary to Discover Bucks Museum
- Church St, Aylesbury, HP20 2QP, GB
- +441296331441
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- 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
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Saturdays or during school holidays to experience the interactive Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the permanent collections and seasonal exhibitions.
- Relax in the Victorian walled garden and enjoy refreshments at the museum café.
- Check opening hours in advance, as the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Book tickets online for the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery to guarantee entry during busy times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Aylesbury station, located approximately 1.5 km from the museum. From the station, a 20-minute walk or a short local bus ride will bring you to Church Street. Trains run frequently from London Marylebone and nearby towns. Tickets typically cost £10–£15.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Aylesbury town centre, stopping near Church Street. Buses from surrounding Buckinghamshire towns run every 15–30 minutes, with a journey time of 10–30 minutes depending on origin. Single fares generally range from £2 to £5.
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Car
Driving to the museum is possible, but parking in Aylesbury town centre is limited. Several public car parks are within a 5–10 minute walk. Parking fees vary from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Consider arriving early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Aylesbury, walking to Discover Bucks Museum is pleasant and accessible. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, with journey times ranging from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
Discover Bucks Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Discover Bucks Museum
Tracing Buckinghamshire’s Story Through Time
Discover Bucks Museum presents a comprehensive narrative of Buckinghamshire’s past, showcasing over 130,000 items accumulated over 150 years. The permanent galleries guide visitors through epochs starting from 200 million years ago, featuring archaeological treasures such as a 3,000-year-old Bronze Age sword and the renowned Lenborough Hoard, one of the largest Anglo-Saxon silver coin collections ever found. Exhibits also highlight the county’s social history, including lacemaking, local industries, and wildlife, providing a vivid picture of life through the ages.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
The museum is designed to captivate visitors of all ages, with a special focus on families. The Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery is a standout feature, an interactive space inspired by the beloved author who lived in Buckinghamshire. Open on Saturdays and during school holidays, it invites children to immerse themselves in the fantastical worlds of Dahl’s stories through hands-on exhibits. Seasonal workshops and events further enrich the visitor experience, offering craft activities, storytelling, and historical reenactments that spark creativity and curiosity.A Tranquil Setting with Amenities
Beyond the galleries, visitors can unwind in the museum’s Victorian walled garden, which offers scenic views of the adjacent Saxon church and features historic fruit trees like the local Aylesbury Prunes and Pear Trees. The on-site café serves a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals, perfect for a relaxing break. Facilities include accessible toilets, baby changing, and wheelchair-friendly access, ensuring comfort for all guests.Exhibitions and Community Engagement
The museum hosts a rotating program of temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes, keeping the experience fresh for repeat visitors. Community events such as replica archaeological digs, puppetry, and poetry performances foster local engagement and provide educational opportunities. The museum’s role as a cultural hub is supported by its independent charity status, emphasizing its commitment to preserving and sharing Buckinghamshire’s heritage.Location and Visitor Information
Situated on Church Street in Aylesbury’s town centre, Discover Bucks Museum is easily accessible by public transport, with nearby bus and train services. The museum operates Wednesday to Friday from 10am to 3pm, Saturdays 10am to 4pm, and Sundays 12pm to 4pm, with closures on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission fees are modest, with free entry for children under 4 and discounted rates for families. The Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery requires a separate ticket, recommended to be booked in advance during busy periods.Preserving Local Heritage with a Modern Touch
While rooted in history, the museum embraces modern display techniques and interactive elements to engage today’s visitors. Its collections span geology, costumes, art, and photographs, reflecting the diversity of Buckinghamshire’s cultural fabric. The museum’s dedication to education and accessibility makes it a vital destination for those interested in the county’s past and its ongoing story.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pebble Alcove
27.0 km
Discover the charming Pebble Alcove, a unique pebble-decorated stone exedra nestled in the historic and scenic Stowe Gardens landscape.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
27.2 km
Explore the enchanting Stowe Gardens, a National Trust property filled with stunning landscapes, historical monuments, and serene beauty in Buckinghamshire.
Temple of British Worthies
27.3 km
An iconic neoclassical monument in Stowe Gardens honoring Britain's greatest thinkers and leaders with sixteen distinguished busts.
Gothic Temple
27.4 km
An enchanting 18th-century Gothic folly nestled in the historic Stowe Landscape Gardens, offering stunning views and timeless architectural beauty.
Virgin Experience Days
27.6 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
River Thames
29.4 km
Discover the enchanting River Thames, a historic waterway flowing through London, offering scenic views, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Cliveden House
30.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and stunning natural beauty at Cliveden House, a historic hotel and spa in the heart of Berkshire.
Magdalen Bridge
30.5 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Oxford Botanic Garden
30.7 km
Explore the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK, where diverse plant species and serene landscapes await your discovery.
The Kidneys
30.7 km
Explore The Kidneys in Oxford, a serene nature reserve perfect for relaxation, wildlife spotting, and scenic walks amidst stunning landscapes.
City Sightseeing Oxford
30.8 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
30.8 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
The Queen's College
30.8 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
Iffley Lock
30.9 km
Explore the scenic Iffley Lock on the River Thames, a perfect blend of nature and history in tranquil surroundings.
New College Ln
30.9 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Waddesdon Manor
8.9 km
Explore the grandeur of Waddesdon Manor, a French Renaissance château with stunning gardens, rich art collections, and vibrant cultural events in Buckinghamshire.
Flint House, Buckinghamshire
9.0 km
Discover Waddesdon Manor’s grand French Renaissance architecture, exquisite art collections, and enchanting Victorian gardens in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
9.4 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.
Quainton Windmill
9.5 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Finemere Wood
12.4 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Lacey Green Windmill
13.1 km
Explore England’s oldest smock windmill nestled on the scenic Chiltern Hills, a living monument to rural heritage and volunteer passion.
Aldbury Nowers
13.3 km
Aldbury Nowers offers tranquil chalk grassland and stunning Chiltern escarpment views near Tring, rich in wildlife and natural beauty.
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
14.8 km
Where Roald Dahl's imagination came to life—explore the Writing Hut, meet beloved characters, and discover the magic of storytelling.
CHILTERNS NATURE - CHINNOR CHALK PITS
14.8 km
Explore the serene and fossil-rich Chinnor Chalk Pits, a geological gem nestled in the heart of the Chiltern Hills.
Claydon Estate
15.1 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
National Trust - Claydon
15.1 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
The Boot
15.9 km
A beloved gastropub in Bledlow Ridge offering hearty British classics, a welcoming atmosphere, and family-friendly outdoor spaces.
Brill Windmill
16.5 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
Chilterns National Landscape
18.2 km
Explore 324 square miles of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and historic villages in England’s tranquil Chilterns National Landscape.
Clock Tower Chesham
18.7 km
Chesham’s iconic Clock Tower stands proudly in Market Square, blending historic charm with vibrant community life in this quintessential English town.
Essential places to dine
Glaze Steakhouse
0.3 km
Aylesbury’s upscale steakhouse delivering expertly cooked prime cuts in a stylish bar and grill setting with personalized service.
Rococo Lounge
0.3 km
Aylesbury’s eclectic lounge blending British classics with vegan and gluten-free delights in a funky, family-friendly setting.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
1.1 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
The COURTYARD
3.3 km
A lively family-friendly restaurant and live music venue with BBQ, beer garden, and cocktail bar in the heart of Weston Turville.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
3.5 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
The Woolpack
4.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional British charm with modern dining in the heart of Stoke Mandeville.
The Five Bells
4.8 km
A welcoming British gastropub in Weston Turville offering hearty classics, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
The Chequers Inn
5.2 km
A refined fine dining pub in Weston Turville, where locally sourced ingredients meet culinary artistry in a warm, elegant setting.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
5.6 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
Seven Stars
6.3 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
Bell Aston Clinton
6.7 km
A stylish gastropub blending classic British charm with modern comfort, offering great food, drinks, and cozy accommodation in Buckinghamshire.
Lucca Restaurant & Bar
7.8 km
Modern Italian dining with fresh flavors and a lively bar in the heart of Wendover’s charming High Street.
The Five Arrows
8.2 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
The Pilgrim Pub
9.9 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
The Angel Restaurant
13.6 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
0.2 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
One Beyond Aylesbury
0.2 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.
House of Fraser
0.2 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Vintage Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
Shop of magical requirements
0.3 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
Aylesbury Eco Store
0.4 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
B&M Home Store
0.4 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
QD Aylesbury
0.5 km
Affordable home, garden, and lifestyle essentials with unique finds and community spirit in the heart of Aylesbury.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
0.5 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
Rabbit Retail
1.5 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
Crystal Willow
4.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Crystal Willow in Stoke Mandeville, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs.
Number 1
7.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in the heart of Wendover’s charming High Street at Number 1 gift shop.
Fancy That
10.8 km
Discover a charming gift shop in Tring offering unique presents, local crafts, and classic toys on the historic High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rockwood
0.1 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
The King's Head, Aylesbury
0.1 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
The Feathers Aylesbury
0.1 km
A lively Aylesbury pub blending traditional charm, modern sports viewing, and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Kingsbury Square.
Emperors Lounge
0.2 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
Craftyard Aylesbury
0.4 km
A stylish, family-run craft beer and gin bar in Aylesbury with an industrial-chic vibe inspired by London’s vibrant streets.
Old Millwrights Arms
0.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watermead Inn
1.8 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
Cotton Wheel
2.3 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
2.5 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Bugle Horn
2.9 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Oak, Aston Clinton
6.2 km
A historic 500-year-old thatched village pub offering rustic home-cooked meals, local ales, and warm family hospitality in scenic Aston Clinton.
The Swan
7.4 km
A charming traditional pub and inn in Little Kimble offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside.
Dukes Wine Bar
10.3 km
Cozy wine bar in Princes Risborough offering a curated wine list, creative menu, and charming courtyard for relaxed socializing.
Jolly Hucksters Ltd- Mobile Bar Company
19.6 km
Milton Keynes’ trusted family-run mobile bar, delivering bespoke drink experiences and exceptional service to weddings and events.
Alford Arms
20.2 km
A charming Victorian gastropub in the Chilterns offering seasonal British fare, local ales, and warm community spirit in a scenic rural setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mirage Aylesbury
0.2 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Pink Punters
21.2 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Penthouse Playrooms
21.3 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
21.4 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
21.4 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Diligence
23.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
24.5 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
Garudaa
24.9 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.
The Bear Club
28.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bear Club, a premier jazz and blues venue in Luton, perfect for music lovers seeking unforgettable live performances.
Mia Musica
28.6 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
Winkers Nightclub
29.9 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Fever Oxford
31.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
31.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
ATIK Oxford
31.8 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly