For mums, dads and grandparents looking for exciting and educational places to visit with your little ones the beautiful Chiltern Hills offer a variety of attractions that are perfect for children under 5 or in preschool. From nature trails to interactive museums, there’s something to captivate every young explorer’s imagination. Discover five must-visit places in the Chilterns AONB that promise a memorable and enjoyable day out for both you and your little adventurers.
- Bekonscot Model Village and Railway: Step into a world of miniatures at Bekonscot Model Village and Railway, the oldest model village in the world. Your preschoolers will be amazed as they explore the intricately detailed landscapes, charming buildings, and working model trains. Let their imagination run wild as they interact with the tiny villagers and navigate the delightful miniature gardens. This enchanting attraction is guaranteed to ignite their curiosity and provide hours of fun. Highly recommended.
- Odds Farm Park: For an unforgettable day out, head to Odds Farm Park, a delightful combination of a working farm and an adventure play area. Your little ones will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of friendly farm animals, including cows, sheep, pigs, and more. They can even try their hand at feeding and petting some of the animals. The park also offers engaging indoor and outdoor play areas, where children can climb, slide, and explore to their heart’s content. Brilliant day out.
- Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre: Introduce your children to the magical world of Roald Dahl at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. This interactive museum celebrates the life and works of the beloved children’s author. Through engaging exhibits, workshops, and storytelling sessions, your preschoolers will immerse themselves in the captivating tales of characters like Matilda, Charlie, and the BFG. Let their imagination soar as they discover the wonders of storytelling in this whimsical and educational setting. Lots of fun (and don’t miss the Roald Dahl section at the County Museum in Aylesbury)
- Natural History Museum at Tring: Nurture your little one’s curiosity about the natural world by visiting the Natural History Museum at Tring. This captivating museum houses an extensive collection of over 4,000 animal specimens, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Encourage your preschoolers to embark on an exciting journey of discovery as they learn about different species and their habitats. Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities will make their visit even more engaging and memorable. Fascinating – and a great day out if its raining.
- Wendover Woods: Escape into nature with a visit to Wendover Woods, a picturesque woodland located in the Chiltern Hills. This expansive forest offers a variety of family-friendly trails, perfect for little explorers to stretch their legs and discover the wonders of the outdoors. Let them run free in the adventure play area or embark on the Gruffalo Trail, where they can search for characters from the popular children’s book. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty. You can book a barbecue ahead of time or enjoy the large cafe too.
Without doubt, The Chilterns provide a treasure trove of enriching experiences for preschool children, with attractions that combine fun, education, and adventure. Whether it’s exploring miniature villages, encountering farm animals, immersing themselves in the world of Roald Dahl, discovering the wonders of nature, or running wild in the woods, there’s something for every little explorer. These five best days out in the Chilterns will create lasting memories and ignite your child’s imagination. So, pack your bags, grab your little ones’ hands, and embark on a magical journey in the hills together.