Chiltern Open Air Museum

Take a family expedition into the past at the Chiltern Open Air Museum! Wander around over 30 rescued and reconstructed historic buildings, unlocking secrets of the past as you go.

Come as close as you can to the past as you explore the homes and workplaces of ordinary people from the Iron Age to World War II. There are plenty more mesmerising attractions to explore too like the orchards, the Village Green, farms and woodland. 

Not sure where to begin? Get acquainted with this 45-acre site down below and start planning your day out now!

 

Whether you're looking for a unique day out or you're a family of history buffs, Chiltern Open Air Museum is a splendid place to take the kids! From historic buildings to woodland trails, traditional gardens and more, there are all kinds of indoor and outdoor adventures to be had!

Begin your quest by touring the impressive collection of historic buildings. This collection includes a 1940s post-war prefab, tin chapel, blacksmith's forge, WW1 and WW2 Nissen huts, Iron Age roundhouse, furniture factory, vicarage, granary, Victorian farm, Edwardian toilets, cobbler's shop, Victorian tollhouse, and a cottage made from earth!

The museum also has a traditional working farm with rare-breed livestock. Look out for the goats, sheep, chickens, ducks and cows at various points around the site.

Learn about historic ways of life and look out for traditional craft demonstrations such as straw plaiting and blacksmithing, which take place on selected days. There are plenty of opportunities to dress up, play with historic toys and games, build models of barns and have lots of space to run around and discover. Visit the traditional cottage gardens and discover what is growing in the 'Dig for Victory' allotment.

Grab yourself a cup of tea and a slice of cake while the kids play in the new adventure playground. There are lots of re-enactments and special events including Medieval Jousting, Roman Gladiators, Britain at War, Ragged Victorians, and the Viking Raid.

In school holidays there are Terrific Tuesdays with special themed family activities and clay modelling. Please visit the museum website for the full events programme.

 

After you've taken a deep dive into the past, come back to the present moment and enjoy a cuppa in the Village Kitchen Cafe. Tuck into a wide range of treats (all locally sourced) from sandwich platters to naughtier treats like cake and biscuits...

Got some food preferences or dietary requirements in your family? You'll be happy to know that you are well-catered for as there are many allergens and vegan-friendly options available too. The cafe is located in Skippings Barn.

Once you've munched away your delicious lunch, head over to the gift shop. You'll discover all kinds of treasures and of charming items to take away with you.  

 

Chiltern Open Air Museum is a large outdoor museum with a collection of 37 historic buildings, some of which, due to their size and historic nature, are not completely accessible. However, it's this museum's mission to make a majority of areas accessible to all of you eager historians!

Dogs on leads are welcome on site. Mobility scooters are available to borrow (please book in advance). You can also find an accessibility guide on the museum's website. You'll find out all about sensory backpacks, blue badge parking, hearing loops and more!

 

The site is close to a number of main routes and can be reached from the M25 at Junction 17. Follow the brown tourist signs to the Museum.

The Museum is also signposted from the A413 at Chalfont St Peter and Chalfont St Giles.

 

The Chiltern Line from Marylebone or the Metropolitan Line from Baker Street to Chalfont & Latimer Station or Chorleywood Station is within short taxi rides of the Museum.

Train Helpline: 08457 484950

 

There are no buses to Newland Park. The nearest bus stop in Chalfont St Giles, around 30 minutes walk away, is on the A30, and 353 routes.