Bekonscot Model Village

This is the oldest and possibly (with the exception of Legoland) the largest model village in the UK. It's at Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire and easily accessible by train to Waterloo, Bakerloo line to Marylebone and then fast train direct to Beaconsfield, stopping only at Gerrards Cross - a total of just under two hours overall. Then just a 5 minute walk (or 10 with our Brownies!) through residential roads to the village.

Nothing particularly special made available to us but we paid an extra £35 to rent the log cabin which allowed us to eat lunch in comfort, and also leave all our coats and bags somewhere safe whilst we explored. Well worth it as the weather was dry and sunny, but a bit breezy and chilly in the shade.

A free quiz sheet (which we photo-copied beforehand), playground, cafe, lots to see and get close to, and a miniature train to ride on at a small extra cost. I was especially impressed by the shop - very good value items and, although small (it's in an old railway carriage) this serves to control the crowds rather than detract.

The journey from Stoneleigh does include maybe 15 minutes on the Underground but there really is no sensible alternative by public transport. Having done this trip a few times I use a route through the tube that avoids most of the crowds. Using Groupsave it cost our party of 22 just under £75 for the train, whereas I was quoted £450 for a coach, so there is no contest.

We really enjoyed this day out. Normal group cost is £8.00 for adults, £4.50 children, but school parties (if you can persuade Bekonscot your intention is educational) are £4.00 with one adult free for every 5 Brownies. Contact the village on 01494 672919 or at see their website.

Webmaster - March 2007

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