Things To Do
in Buckingham

Buckingham Township sits in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, about 40 miles north of Philadelphia. The area is known for rolling farmland, preserved open space, and a quaint small-town vibe. Visitors enjoy farm stands, charming Main Streets in nearby Doylestown and New Hope, and scenic drives along the Delaware River.

The community is ideal for day trips, nature walks, and exploring PA Dutch heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Buckingham Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich past of this charming town. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quaint streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture and local shops. Don't forget to stop by the local café for a delicious breakfast featuring homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Buckingham Plantation, where you can learn about the agricultural history and the significance of the land. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the plantation gardens, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and historical structures. Afterward, explore the nearby art gallery showcasing local artists and their works inspired by the area's natural beauty.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to the local brewery for a tasting session of craft beers unique to the region. Engage with locals and share stories while enjoying a selection of small bites that complement the beverages. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the riverbank, taking in the serene views and the sound of nature.

day 2
Nature Trails and Wildlife Watching
morning
:

Embark on a guided nature walk at the local wildlife reserve, where you can observe a variety of birds and native species in their natural habitat. The morning sun casts a beautiful glow on the landscape, making it a perfect time for photography enthusiasts. Enjoy a light breakfast packed with local fruits while soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your morning adventure, spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails that wind through the lush forests and open fields of the reserve. Be sure to stop at the observation points for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. As you hike, keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife that may cross your path.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. As you dine, enjoy conversations about the day’s wildlife experiences with fellow travelers. Wrap up your evening with a stargazing session at a nearby open area, marveling at the clear night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or latte$3-5
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre)$1,000-1,800
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3.50-4.50
🛒Groceries (monthly for one person)$200-350

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic countryside and charming small towns
  • Easy day trips to Philadelphia, New Hope, and Doylestown
  • Abundant outdoor activities and fall foliage
  • Rich Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and local markets
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Some services concentrated in larger towns; driving is common
  • Seasonal crowds around popular destinations (spring/fall)
  • Rural roads can be winding and require careful navigation

Places to Visit in Buckingham

Visit one of these nice places.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve Overlook

A ridge top vantage with sweeping views of the Delaware River valley, especially stunning at sunrise or golden hour.

Washington Crossing Historic Park

Historic river landscape along the Delaware with open fields and scenic river bends—great for wide landscapes.

Delaware Canal Towpath near New Hope/Lahaska

Classic Bucks County canal scenes with brickwork, boats, and rural farmland.

Doylestown Courthouse and Main Street

Architectural architecture and charming storefronts that shine in early morning light or at night.

New Hope-Lambertville Bridge at Sunset

Iconic bridge shot with the river and town lights in the distance; ideal at dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buckingham

Buckingham and the surrounding Bucks County towns celebrate a mix of Pennsylvania Dutch flavors and modern farm-to-table dining, with lots of fresh produce, local cheeses, and craft beverages.

Buckingham Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shoofly Pie

A rich molasses pie classic to PA Dutch bakeries, often found in local dessert menus and farmers markets.

Must-Try!

Scrapple

A traditional breakfast meat made from pork scraps and cornmeal; commonly served crispy with eggs in local diners.

Apple Cider

Pressed locally in fall, perfect for pairing with hearty breads or pies.

Soft Pretzels

Warm, freshly baked pretzels are a Bucks County staple, easy to find in bakeries and markets.

Whoopie Pies

A PA Dutch favorite: two cakey cookies with creamy filling, often sold at local markets and bakeries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Doylestown Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering produce, dairy, baked goods, and prepared foods from local farms.

Lambertville Farmers Market

Cross-river market in nearby Lambertville, NJ with fresh produce, meats, and street-food stalls worth a visit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buckingham experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and mild springs and falls. Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s in summer to the mid-30s in winter, with rainfall distributed throughout the year. Humidity can be high in summer, and autumn brings colorful foliage. Snow is common in winter, but heavy snowstorms are less frequent than in more northern regions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A simple hello or good morning is appreciated; friendly small-talk about the weather or local attractions is common.

Politeness

Hold doors for others; say please and thank you; keep noise reasonable in residential areas.

Tipping

Tipping for services is expected; in restaurants, bars, and taxis, tipping is customary.

Privacy

Residents value privacy and a relaxed pace—avoid being overly forward in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Buckingham is generally a safe, small-town area with low crime rates. Use common-sense safety practices: lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and stay aware of deer crossing on rural roads. Water safety near the Delaware River and canal is advised; wear life jackets for activities on open water and supervise children. Have a plan for emergencies and know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Buckingham

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and bars, leave 15-20% of the bill before tax for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy in smaller towns; some places may offer contactless payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; pack sunscreen and water; enjoy lakeside activities and riverside dining in the evenings.

Autumn

Crimson foliage along rural roads, harvest festivals, and pumpkin patches; ideal for photography and scenic drives.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; charming in stone towns, fireplaces in pubs, and winter markets; some outdoor trails may be limited.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for hiking, garden visits, and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Buckingham at Night

In Buckingham and nearby towns, the nightlife is low-key and community-focused. Expect cozy pubs, wine bars, and live music venues in New Hope, Doylestown, and Lambertville, with outdoor patios and riverside spots common in the warmer months. For a more lively scene, head to nearby cities like Philadelphia, which offer clubs, theaters, and a broader range of nightlife options, typically a short drive away. Many venues feature seasonal events and weekend performances at small theatres and breweries.

Hiking in Buckingham

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tyler State Park Trails

Varied trails through woodlands and fields near Newtown.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve Trails

Easy to moderate trails with scenic overlooks.

Delaware Canal Towpath

Flat, long-distance trail along the canal—great for long hikes.

Nockamixon State Park Trails

Hilly trails surrounding Lake Nockamixon with forest scenery.

Airports

How to reach Buckingham by plane.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Major international airport about 40-50 miles southeast, with easy access via I-276 and regional roads.

Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN)

Smaller regional airport about 25-35 miles northeast, convenient for domestic flights.

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)

Larger regional airport about 60-70 miles north, with flights to major hubs.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability varies by town. Doylestown and New Hope have walkable cores with cafes, shops, and historic sites, while Buckingham Township itself is more car-dependent. Sidewalks are present in village centers, but longer distances require a car and/or bike access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households with school-age children; strong community networks and family-friendly events.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and access to healthcare and cultural activities attract long-term residents.

Young professionals

Commuters to Philadelphia and New Jersey who value a balanced lifestyle and outdoor recreation.

Tourists and weekend visitors

People visiting Bucks County’s historic towns, markets, and natural areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

Several scenic public and private courses in Bucks County with rolling terrain.

Boating and Kayaking

Delaware River and local lakes offer opportunities for water sports.

Horseback Riding

Riding stables and trails are popular in rural Bucks County.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate; you’ll mainly encounter rural road traffic and weekend vehicle loads around popular destinations. SEPTA commuter rail serves nearby Doylestown and connects to Philadelphia for easy day trips; highways like I-95 corridor and Route 202 see heavier traffic during peak commute times. Public transportation is available but limited outside the main towns, so a car is recommended for exploring Bucks County.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buckingham.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for meals featuring seasonal vegetables, vegetarian entrées, and dairy-free options; many places can adapt dishes if you ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in the region with facilities like Doylestown Hospital and nearby clinics. Primary care doctors, urgent care centers, and specialty services are available within a short drive in Doylestown and New Hope. Emergency services are located in Bucks County towns; most residents rely on regional hospitals for major care.

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