
Explore a 275-year-old Georgian gaol with interactive exhibits on local history, from royal visits to famous prisoners and buried treasure discoveries.
Venue Type
Indoor & Outdoor
Typical visit duration
1-3 hours
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
0 months (newborn)+
Is this London? I don't know, but here are some photos of my stone.
built in 1748, originally served as a prison and was funded by Richard Grenville Temple, Lord Viscount of Cobham. Its construction, with crenellations and arrow-slits, was intended to resemble a castle, reflecting Buckingham's ambition to regain its status as the county town and host the Summer Assizes. In the museum they have, The Buckingham half-angel coin which is a rare gold coin from the reign of Richard III, minted between 1483 and 1485. It's one of only seven known examples and is notable for being the only one on public display. The coin was discovered near Buckingham by a metal detectorist and is now housed at the Buckingham Old Gaol Museum. Only a small museum, but for £5 we thought it was great.
The Old Gaol is located right in the middle of Buckingham. There is a nearby car park which is cheap to park in. I believe this is the only museum here in Buckingham. Stairs involved. No disabled access. The Old Gaol combines a museum about Buckingham. You can enter several of the gaol cells which now has exhibits. There is information about The Salvation Army and a room dedicated to Flora Thompson, both on the ground floor. Toilet facilities available in the basement. This is a small attraction and shouldn't take you more than 45 mins to look around. Also opposite the front reception is town information office.
In the centre of Buckingham. Nice museum built around the old Gaol with some exhibits inside the cells spanning many years from the Saxon & Roman era through to the 1900s. Very interesting. Tickets £4 per adult. Parking is at nearby Waitrose car park - just 95 pence for 3 hours. Recommended.
Beautiful building with a lot of history, not the biggest of places but some great displays and lots of information boards. You get to see the layout of the gaol and cells. Lovely friendly staff, a little gift shop on site. Entry fee very reasonable £4 an adult. For parking I advise using the car park by Waitrose, it is pay and display. Prices are reasonable and the gaol is a 5 minute walk. Definitely worth a visit.
Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026
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This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026
