Buckingham

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Buckingham's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Buckingham Town
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll around the town square, admiring the historical architecture and quaint shops. Visit the Buckingham Old Gaol Museum to learn about the town's fascinating history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the picturesque Chandos Park, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful flowerbeds. Spend the afternoon wandering through the park's walking trails, or take part in outdoor sports available in the area. You could also explore local shops for unique souvenirs and gifts.

evening
:

Dine at one of Buckingham's charming restaurants; try traditional British cuisine or savor international flavors. After dinner, relax with a leisurely walk through the park, where the evening lights create a magical atmosphere. End your day by enjoying a local theater performance or a movie at the nearby cinema.

day 2
Day Trip to Stowe Landscape Gardens
morning
:

After breakfast, set off to the stunning Stowe Landscape Gardens, which is just a short drive from Buckingham. Explore the meticulously designed gardens and discover the classical temples and statues that make this place a must-see. Take your time photographing the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Savor lunch at the café situated within the gardens, where you can enjoy light meals and refreshments with a view. Continue your exploration by walking the various trails and discovering the hidden gems of the gardens, such as the majestic lake and enchanting wooded areas. Make sure to visit the Gothic Temple for breathtaking views.

evening
:

Return to Buckingham for dinner at a local gastropub, offering seasonal dishes made with fresh local ingredients. After your meal, enjoy a quiet evening at a nearby bar or pub, where you can chat with locals and unwind from your day's adventures. If you're up for it, seek out a trivia night or live music event.

day 3
Visit to Silverstone Circuit
morning
:

Kick off another exciting day with breakfast in Buckingham before heading to the Silverstone Circuit, known for hosting Formula 1 races. Take a guided tour of the circuit, where you can learn about motorsport history and explore behind-the-scenes areas. Feel the adrenaline as you witness cars zooming during practice sessions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the circuit's café while watching the continued activities on the track. Afterward, you could try your hand at a driving experience, feeling the thrill of being behind the wheel of a race car for a few laps. If time allows, explore the Silverstone Interactive Museum to immerse yourself further in the motorsports culture.

evening
:

Return to Buckingham and indulge in a hearty dinner featuring local ales and comfort food. Gather with friends or family to share stories about your exhilarating day at the circuit. Wind down with a stroll through town, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local ice cream shop.

day 4
Cultural Day in Buckingham
morning
:

Start your cultural experience with a hearty breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy freshly made scones and cream. Head to the Buckingham Chantry Chapel to admire the stunning stained glass and learn about its significant history. Continue with a visit to the town's local art gallery, which often showcases the work of regional artists.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to the nearby village of Brackley for the afternoon. Explore the charming streets, visit its local markets, and take time to absorb the small-town atmosphere. If you're interested, stop by the Brackley Antique Cellar for a unique find.

evening
:

Return to Buckingham for an evening of live music at a local venue, featuring anything from folk to jazz. Before the show, consider enjoying dinner at a restaurant known for its hearty yet refined dishes. Afterward, soak in the local nightlife and mingle with the friendly residents.

day 5
Nature Walks and Hiking
morning
:

After breakfast, equip yourself for a day of hiking and nature exploration at nearby Whittlebury Forest. As you walk through the trails, enjoy the sound of birds and the rustle of leaves, feeling rejuvenated in the fresh air. Consider bringing along a guidebook to help identify the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Find a scenic spot for a packed lunch inside the forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of nature around you. Post-lunch, participate in additional outdoor activities like cycling or horseback riding if available. Explore more trails or switch to exploring the natural beauty of the nearby Ouse Valley.

evening
:

Return to Buckingham, where you can enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant. Share stories of your day's adventures over a delicious meal, perhaps trying some locally sourced dishes. End the day by unwinding in your accommodation with a good book or a movie.

day 6
Exploration of Nearby Villages
morning
:

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before setting out to explore the quaint villages surrounding Buckingham, such as Winslow and Olney. Experience the charm of these small towns as you wander their streets and visit local shops and cafes. Make sure to capture the beauty of their historic buildings and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a village pub, enjoying hearty fare and a pint of local ale. Afterward, visit the local attractions, such as the charming market square in Winslow or the Cowper and Newton Museum in Olney. Take your time to appreciate the local arts, crafts, and produce.

evening
:

Head back to Buckingham for a dinner reservation at a well-reviewed restaurant, where you can indulge in a local culinary experience. Share your favorite moments from your village explorations with dining companions. Allow for some downtime afterward, perhaps visiting a local café for dessert or coffee.

day 7
Historical Excursion to Buckingham Palace
morning
:

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before making your way to London to visit Buckingham Palace. Participate in a guided tour that highlights the rich history and luxury of this royal residence. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony if your timing aligns perfectly.

afternoon
:

Have lunch nearby, indulging in a delightful meal with views of the palace. Explore the beautiful St James's Park following your meal, perfect for a relaxing walk amidst nature and views of the palace. Take advantage of the opportunities for photography around the park's stunning landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Buckingham for an evening of relaxation. Choose a welcoming local eatery for a casual dinner, enjoying traditional British dishes or something with a modern twist. Finally, immerse yourself in the local ambiance with music or a lively storytelling event.

day 8
Shopping and Local Markets
morning
:

After breakfast, spend your morning exploring the local markets in Buckingham, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly vendors and discover unique items that reflect the character of the area. Take time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some local treats.

afternoon
:

Grab a quick lunch from one of the food stalls at the market before diving into the boutique shops in town. Spend the afternoon browsing through quaint stores, discovering antiques, and perhaps finding a perfect memento from your trip. Consider stopping at a local art shop or gallery to appreciate the work of local artisans.

evening
:

Wind down your day with dinner at a thoughtfully curated local restaurant, highlighting regional flavors. Share your finds and experiences from the day's shopping adventures over a delicious meal. Perhaps top off your evening with a nightcap at a local pub, enjoying the friendly community vibe.

day 9
Relaxation Day at a Spa
morning
:

Treat yourself to a relaxing breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café, savoring a leisurely meal to start your pampering day. Head to a local spa where you can choose from a range of treatments, including massages, facials, or aromatherapy. Spend your morning indulging in relaxation and rejuvenation.

afternoon
:

Continue your spa experience with a delicious and healthy lunch at the spa's café, often featuring fresh ingredients. After lunch, participate in wellness classes or yoga sessions offered by the spa, providing a holistic approach to relaxation. Take a moment to unwind in a tranquil setting, soaking up the calming ambiance.

evening
:

Conclude your wellness retreat with a healthy dinner at a nearby organic restaurant that focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Share your spa experiences with friends or loved ones, highlighting your favorite treatments. End the day with a quiet evening, perhaps meditating or journaling about your relaxation day.

Discover Buckingham

Read more in our Buckingham 2025 Travel Guide.

Buckingham Travel Guide