Great Things To Do In Amersham
If you’re planning a trip, you should definitely consider adding Amersham to your itinerary. This charming town, located in the county of Buckinghamshire, has a lot to offer, from historic architecture and cultural attractions to scenic walks and culinary delights. In this article, we’ve put together a list of 20 things to do in Amersham that will help you make the most of your visit.
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Visit the Amersham Museum
The Amersham Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s history and heritage. Housed in a 15th-century building, the museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Amersham’s past. You can learn about the town’s role in the English Civil War, see how people used to live and work in the area, and discover the town’s connections to famous figures like William Penn. The museum also hosts regular events and activities, so check their website to see what’s on during your visit.
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Walk through the Old Town
Amersham’s Old Town is a beautiful area of narrow streets and historic buildings that date back to the 16th century. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s winding lanes and admire the architecture, which includes everything from medieval timber-framed houses to Georgian and Victorian buildings. You’ll also find plenty of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a weekly market that sells local produce and crafts.
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Explore the Chiltern Open Air Museum
Located just outside Amersham, the Chiltern Open Air Museum is a unique attraction that brings history to life. The museum is set in 45 acres of beautiful woodland and features over 30 historic buildings that have been rescued from demolition and rebuilt on site. You can explore a Victorian farm, a 1940s prefab house, a Tudor barn, and much more. There are also costumed characters who demonstrate traditional crafts and skills, such as blacksmithing, weaving, and butter-making.
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Take a walk in the Chiltern Hills
The Chiltern Hills are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Amersham is the perfect base for exploring this stunning landscape. There are plenty of walks to choose from, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. One popular route is the 7-mile circular walk from Amersham to the village of Little Missenden, which takes you through rolling hills, ancient woodland, and picturesque villages. You can also join a guided walk or hire a bike to explore the area.
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Visit the Drake and Amersham Hill Commons
The Drake and Amersham Hill Commons are two areas of common land that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of town life. The commons are home to a variety of wildlife, including rare butterflies and birds, and there are several walking trails that take you through the heathland and woodland. You can also enjoy a picnic or a game of frisbee on the grassy areas, or simply relax and take in the views.
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See a show at the Amersham Playhouse
The Amersham Playhouse is a small but charming theatre that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. From plays and musicals to comedy and children’s shows, there’s always something on that will entertain and delight. The theatre is housed in a former church, which gives it a unique atmosphere, and there’s a bar and cafe where you can enjoy a drink or a snack before or after the show.
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Visit St Mary’s Church
St Mary’s Church is a beautiful medieval church that dates back to the 13th century. The church has a fascinating history, having survived the English Reformation and the English Civil War, and it contains many interesting features, such as a 14th-century font, a 15th-century rood screen, and a 17th-century pulpit. There’s also a peaceful churchyard where you can take a moment to reflect and enjoy the tranquillity.
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Try some local beer at the Mad Squirrel Tap & Bottle Shop
The Mad Squirrel Tap & Bottle Shop is a craft beer bar that offers a wide selection of locally brewed beers, as well as beers from around the world. The bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their products. You can sample a few beers on tap or buy some bottles to take away, and there are often special events and tastings that you can attend.
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Visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery
The Stanley Spencer Gallery is a small but impressive art gallery that showcases the work of the famous British artist Stanley Spencer. Spencer was born in Cookham, which is just a few miles from Amersham, and many of his paintings are inspired by the local countryside and people. The gallery has a collection of over 100 of Spencer’s paintings, as well as drawings, photographs, and personal items. There’s also a lovely garden where you can sit and enjoy the views.
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Take a trip on the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway
The Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway is a heritage railway that runs steam and diesel trains through the beautiful Chiltern countryside. The railway has a station in Chinnor, which is about 15 minutes’ drive from Amersham, and you can take a round trip to Princes Risborough and back, or stop off at one of the intermediate stations and explore the area. There are often special events, such as murder mystery evenings and Santa specials, which add an extra element of fun.
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Enjoy a meal at The Crown Inn
The Crown Inn is a traditional English pub that serves delicious food and drink in a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features classic pub dishes, such as fish and chips and steak and ale pie, as well as more innovative options, such as smoked haddock risotto and pan-fried sea bass. There’s also a great selection of beers and wines to choose from, and the pub has a lovely beer garden where you can dine al fresco in the summer.
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Take a pottery class at The Little Pottery Studio
The Little Pottery Studio is a pottery workshop that offers classes and workshops for all ages and abilities. You can learn how to make everything from mugs and bowls to sculptures and ornaments, using a variety of techniques and materials. The studio has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the instructors are experienced and patient. You can also buy pottery supplies and materials, so you can continue your hobby at home.
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Visit the Shardeloes Estate
The Shardeloes Estate is a beautiful country estate that’s open to the public for guided tours. The estate has a rich history, having been owned by several prominent families over the centuries, and it contains many interesting features, such as a 16th-century manor house, a walled garden, and a lake. The guided tours take you through the house and gardens, and there are often special events, such as open-air theatre and garden parties.
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Explore the Colne Valley Regional Park
The Colne Valley Regional Park is a large area of parkland and countryside that stretches from Rickmansworth to Staines-upon-Thames. The park has a variety of landscapes, including woods, meadows, and wetlands, and there are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore. You can also take part in activities such as fishing, horse riding, and birdwatching, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic or a barbecue.
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Visit Chenies Manor House
Chenies Manor House is a beautiful Tudor mansion that’s open to the public for guided tours. The house has a fascinating history, having been owned by the same family for over 600 years, and it contains many interesting features, such as a 16th-century great hall, a 17th-century chapel, and a walled garden. The guided tours take you through the house and gardens, and there’s also a tearoom where you can enjoy a cream tea or a slice of cake.
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Go shopping at The Entertainer
The Entertainer is a toy shop that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike. The shop has a huge range of toys, games, and puzzles, as well as a dedicated Lego section and a selection of collectibles. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and there are often special offers and promotions that make shopping even more fun.
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Visit the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre is a must-visit for fans of the famous children’s author. The museum is located in Great Missenden, which is just a few miles from Amersham, and it contains many interactive exhibits and displays that bring Dahl’s stories to life. You can learn about Dahl’s life and work, see his writing hut and personal belongings, and take part in workshops and activities.
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Take a trip to Bekonscot Model Village
Bekonscot Model Village is a miniature world that’s sure to enchant visitors of all ages. The village is set in beautiful gardens and features over 200 buildings, as well as trains, boats, and vehicles, all in miniature form. You can explore the village at your own pace and marvel at the attention to detail, or take a ride on the miniature railway. There’s also a cafe and gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and refreshments.
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Visit the Jordans Quaker Meeting House
The Jordans Quaker Meeting House is a historic building that’s open to the public for guided tours. The meeting house has a fascinating history, having been used by Quakers since the 17th century, and it contains many interesting features, such as a 17th-century burial ground, a restored barn, and a beautiful garden. The guided tours take you through the meeting house and grounds, and there’s also a tearoom where you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
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Try some local produce at the Amersham Farmers’ Market
The Amersham Farmers’ Market is a weekly market that takes place in the Old Town on a Saturday morning. The market sells a variety of locally produced food and drink, including fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, bread and cakes, and artisan cheeses and chocolates. You can sample some of the products before you buy, and there’s always a friendly atmosphere and a sense of community.
Conclusion
Amersham is a hidden gem that’s full of surprises, and we hope this article has given you some inspiration for things to do during your visit. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, nature and the outdoors, or food and drink, Amersham has something to offer. So why not plan a trip and discover this enchanting town for yourself?
