Set in a rather picturesque 45 acres of Bucks countryside, the Chiltern Open Air Museum (COAM to those in the know) is a fabulous museum ‘en plein air’ with a lot packed into one site – you can expect even more as it celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The museum showcases over 30 historic buildings from across the ages plus accessible pathways dotted around the site. Filled with genuine old structures that were taken apart and piece-by-piece moved to the current site, you’ll see a cottage from Haddenham, a toll house from High Wycombe, multiple barns, and a church from near Chinnor – all painstakingly restored, full of fascinating details and open for exploring.

Stepping into each one is like a taste of time travel – it’s a fab way to engage kids in history and perfect for those littlies who don’t want to read info boards indoors. Here, kids can meander through time, burn off some energy, learn a little and play a lot. The whole vibe is super relaxed and immersive, with characters dressed in period costume and interactive displays of skills like spinning wool and basket weaving.

Alongside the costumed actors and demos, the museum has a lively and imaginative events programme with something on most weekends plus Tuesdays during the holidays. Spring and summer 2026 promises a historic activity bonanza, starting with the Cannons and Cavalry event (Sun 24 – Mon 25 May). Creative types should head along to the Heritage Crafts weekend (Sat 25 – Sun 26 Jul). The Britain at War event (Sat 8 – Sun 9 Aug), meanwhile, will give you the chance to meet characters and experience re-enactments from the Medieval era, the English Civil War, Napoleonic battles, WWI and WWII. And if you’re looking for something a little more serene, there’s traditional craft demonstrations on every non-event weekend. Want to keep the kids busy? They’ll love seeking out the Celebaarty Sheep who are hiding out in the historic buildings this spring. 

COAM also boasts an entire working farm (all rare barnyard breeds), an adventure playground, and various gardens including a dig for victory allotment and cherry and apple orchards. And easy to miss a little off the beaten track, make sure you don’t miss the Iron Age roundhouse – an impressive reconstruction that brings history off the page. Furry friends are welcome on site on a lead and while there’s no café, drinks and snacks are available to buy. Mobility scooters are also available to hire – because getting around should be easy for all. Ticket prices here.