The 8 Best Historic Sites in Aylesbury Vale, England

Surrounded by views of Oxfordshire and the Chilterns Hills and just an hour by train or car from London, Waddesdon: A Rothschild House & Gardens, is an ideal place for a day out with family and friends. Explore the gardens, aviary, wine cellars and Renaissance-style chateau built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in 1874 to entertain the fashionable world and to house his collection of fine art. Renowned for afternoon teas, Waddesdon continues the tradition of entertainment and hospitality with events celebrating food and wine, and opportunities for you to explore the Manor's history, collections and gardens through changing exhibitions, talks and tours. Opening hours change with the seasons. Feb-Mar, Wed-Sun 10am-4pm, Apr-Oct, Wed-Sun 10am-5pm and Nov-Dec, Wed-Sun 11am-6pm. Timed tickets are needed for visiting the House, which is open Wed-Fri 12-4 (including the Bachelors' Wing), Sat-Sun 11-4 (excluding the Bachelors' Wing. There's lots to see, so last recommended admission 2.30pm.

The scale, grandeur and beauty of Stowe has inspired writers, philosophers, artists, politicians and members of the public from the 18th century to the present day. Since the National Trust acquired the gardens in the late 1980s, an ambitious programme of restoration has ensured that over 40 temples and monuments remain, gracing an inspiring backdrop of lakes and valleys with an endless variety of walks and trails, a delightful visit, any time of year.

A Grade II* listed post mill dating from the 1680s, Brill Windmill is owned by Brill Parish Council and is managed, maintained and opened to the public by The Brill Society, a registered charity. The Windmill is open to the public every Sunday between Easter and the end of September, from 2pm to 5pm. £2 for adults, 50p for children. For out of hours visits for groups please contact us via our website.

The National Trust and the Claydon Estate work in partnership to run Claydon House, courtyard and gardens. Claydon House, run by the National Trust, displays splendid 18th Century interiors while the gardens, run by the Claydon Estate, include formal gardens, a woodland walk, and a productive kitchen garden. The courtyard, also run by the Claydon Estate, is an arts and artisan hub housing several boutiques including a picture framer, sculptor, painter, potter, florist and National Trust book shop. There is also an on-site holiday cottage, 'Phoenix Tea Rooms' and event room 'The Stables' available for private hire.