Buckingham

What does Buckingham offer?

Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, Buckingham is a picturesque market town brimming with charm and history. Surrounded by lush, rolling countryside, this quaint haven boasts an impressive array of architectural gems, including the Old Gaol, St Peter and St Paul’s Church, and the Chantry Chapel. As you meander through the town's narrow streets, you'll be captivated by the delightful array of independent shops, boutiques, and cosy cafés that help create a warm and inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Buckingham is rich in culture and heritage, offering a variety of attractions suitable for the whole family. Immerse yourself in the town's fascinating past at the Old Gaol Museum or take a leisurely stroll along the River Great Ouse, admiring the beauty of the surrounding landscape. For those who enjoy exploring parks and gardens, the picturesque Buckingham University campus is not to be missed. In addition, the town hosts a vibrant calendar of events, including the annual Buckingham Fringe Festival, which showcases a mix of music, dance, and theatre performances. With its welcoming community and captivating charm, Buckingham is the perfect destination for a memorable day out or a relaxing weekend escape.

Top attractions in Buckingham

1. Buckingham Old Gaol Museum: This historic building, once a prison, now houses fascinating exhibits and artefacts showcasing the town's history, heritage, and culture. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about local stories, the history of Buckinghamshire policing, and the Victorian prison system.

2. Stowe Landscape Gardens: A stunning example of 18th-century landscape design, Stowe Landscape Gardens offers a beautiful and tranquil escape. These magnificent gardens feature classical temples, monuments, and stunning architecture set amidst lush greenery and picturesque lakes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

3. The Old Town Hall: A beautiful Georgian building in the heart of Buckingham, the Old Town Hall hosts a variety of events, from art exhibitions to live music performances. With its elegant architecture and rich history, it's a must-visit cultural hub for both residents and tourists alike.

4. Buckingham Chantry Chapel: Dating back to the 15th century, this historic gem is one of the few surviving medieval chantry chapels in England. Visitors can admire its exquisite architecture, learn about its fascinating history, and attend various events and concerts held throughout the year.

5. The Buckingham Circular Walk: For those who enjoy the great outdoors, the 6-mile Buckingham Circular Walk takes you through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and along the beautiful River Great Ouse. This accessible route offers a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Buckinghamshire landscape.

Best areas to live in Buckingham

1. Bourton Road: A highly sought-after residential area in Buckingham, offering a mix of stylish properties and easy access to local amenities, including schools, shops, and parks.

2. High Street: Located in the heart of Buckingham, High Street presents a delightful array of period properties, from charming cottages to impressive townhouses, all within walking distance of the town centre.

3. Badgers Estate: A popular family-friendly development, featuring modern homes with generous gardens, located close to some of the area's top schools, including Buckingham Primary School and the Royal Latin School.

4. Page Hill: An exclusive residential area, comprising a mix of elegant and spacious homes, with convenient access to the A421 and nearby shopping districts.

5. Chandos Road: This tree-lined road offers a selection of attractive Edwardian and Victorian properties, in addition to being close to parks, leisure facilities, and excellent schools.

6. Lace Hill: A modern development situated on the outskirts of Buckingham, Lace Hill provides an array of stylish homes amidst a peaceful, green setting with easy access to the town centre and surrounding countryside.

7. Cornwalls Meadow: An attractive neighbourhood boasting a range of contemporary properties, Cornwalls Meadow benefits from close proximity to the town centre and its wealth of amenities, including popular shops and restaurants.

8. Tingewick Road: Featuring a variety of appealing homes, Tingewick Road offers residents the perfect blend of town and country living, with easy access to picturesque countryside walks and the bustling town centre.

9. Maids Moreton: A charming village located just north of Buckingham, Maids Moreton is home to a range of beautiful properties, from quaint cottages to spacious family homes, all surrounded by scenic countryside.

10. Stratford Road: Lined with a mixture of traditional and modern properties, Stratford Road is a desirable location that offers excellent access to the town centre, schools, and nearby leisure facilities.

Best things about living in Buckingham

1. Historical Charm: Buckingham boasts a rich history with well-preserved architectural gems, such as the Old Gaol Museum, Stowe House, and Claydon House, providing residents with a glimpse into the town's storied past.

2. Vibrant Community Life: Buckingham offers a strong sense of community with numerous events, clubs, and societies for residents to join. The town hosts a variety of cultural events, including the annual Buckingham Literary Festival and the Charter Fair, ensuring a lively atmosphere all year round.

3. Excellent Education Opportunities: The town is home to the prestigious University of Buckingham, as well as several outstanding primary and secondary schools. Residents have access to high-quality education for all ages, fostering a well-educated and diverse community.

4. Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities: Buckingham is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering residents ample opportunity to enjoy leisurely walks, cycling, and other outdoor pursuits. The River Great Ouse flows through the town, providing a scenic backdrop for riverside strolls and picnics.

5. Convenient Transport Links: Buckingham's strategic location provides excellent transport links to London, Oxford, and Milton Keynes, making it perfect for commuters and those seeking easy access to nearby cities. The M40 and M1 motorways are easily accessible, and there are frequent train services from nearby stations, such as Bicester North and Milton Keynes Central.

Drawbacks to living in Buckingham

1. Limited Employment Opportunities: Buckingham, being a small market town, has fewer job prospects compared to larger cities. Residents often have to commute to nearby cities, such as Milton Keynes or London, for work, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

2. Limited Shopping and Entertainment: While the town centre offers a range of independent shops, boutiques, and eateries, it lacks the extensive variety found in larger cities. Those seeking high-street brands, popular retail chains, or more diverse entertainment options may need to travel to neighbouring towns and cities.

3. Higher Cost of Living: Buckinghamshire is known for its picturesque countryside and attractive market towns, which can result in a higher cost of living. Property prices and rental costs in the area are generally more expensive than in other parts of the UK.

4. Insufficient Public Transport: Public transport options within Buckingham are limited, mainly consisting of buses with infrequent schedules. Commuters may find it challenging to rely solely on public transport and may need to use a private vehicle to travel to work or access neighbouring towns.

5. Lack of Social Diversity: Buckingham is a predominantly rural area with a small population. As a result, it may lack the cultural and social diversity found in larger, more urban areas. This can lead to a more homogenous community with fewer opportunities to engage with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

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