By Nestled in the scenic countryside of North Buckinghamshire, Great Horwood is a charming English village known for its historic character, quaint architecture, and strong community spirit. Located just 5 miles from Milton Keynes and 10 miles from Buckingham, this village offers the perfect balance of peaceful rural living with easy access to urban amenities.
Whether you’re a visitor seeking a quiet retreat, a hiker exploring the Chilterns, or a family looking to relocate, Great Horwood is a gem worth discovering.
Quick Facts About Great Horwood
| Feature | Details |
| County | Buckinghamshire |
| Civil Parish | Great Horwood and Singleborough |
| Nearby Towns | Buckingham, Milton Keynes, Winslow |
| Historic Roots | Mentioned in the Domesday Book (1086) |
| Population | Approx. 1,000 residents |
| Postcode District | MK17 |
A Village Steeped in History
Great Horwood’s history dates back to the 11th century, and the village is proudly mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The name “Horwood” derives from the Old English ‘horu wudu’, meaning “muddy wood.”
The village features a conservation area filled with traditional cottages, Tudor-era buildings, and a medieval church. Its rural charm and preserved historic environment make it a standout among Buckinghamshire villages.
Architectural Highlights
St James the Great Church
A 14th-century parish church built with local limestone, featuring Perpendicular Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and a peaceful churchyard.
Timber-framed Cottages
The village contains several listed buildings, including Grade II Tudor and Georgian homes, adding to its timeless village appeal.
Singleborough Hamlet
Part of the Great Horwood parish, this tiny hamlet is home to additional historic buildings and picturesque countryside views.
Things to Do in and Around Great Horwood
While small in size, the village and surrounding area offer plenty for lovers of nature, heritage, and local life.
Walking & Countryside Trails
- Access to footpaths, bridleways, and parts of the Midshires Way
- Ideal for ramblers, cyclists, and dog walkers
Visit The Swan Inn
The local pub offers traditional ales, home-cooked meals, and a cozy atmosphere. A central part of the community and a great stop for visitors.
Great Horwood Village Green
A popular space for seasonal events, village fairs, and informal football matches.
Nearby Attractions
- Winslow Market – Just 2 miles away
- Stowe House & Gardens – Grand 18th-century estate open to the public
- Bletchley Park – WWII codebreaking centre (20 mins drive)
Living in Great Horwood: A Peaceful Village Lifestyle
Great Horwood is increasingly popular with those looking to relocate from urban areas to the countryside, without losing proximity to key transport links and amenities.
Housing
- A mix of period homes, converted barns, and new builds
- Sought-after for families, retirees, and remote workers
Education
- Great Horwood Church of England Combined School – Primary school in the village
- Nearby secondary options in Winslow, Buckingham, and Milton Keynes
Commuting
- Milton Keynes Central offers fast trains to London Euston (35–40 mins)
- Easy access to A421, M1, and M40
Why Visit or Move to Great Horwood?
| Benefit | Details |
| Tranquil countryside | Surrounded by open fields, woodlands, and fresh air |
| Heritage & charm | Historic buildings, church, and old-world ambiance |
| Close to cities | Near Milton Keynes and Buckingham for work or shopping |
| Strong community | Regular events, village groups, and friendly neighbours |
| Good schools | Ideal for young families seeking quality primary education |
SEO Keyword Strategy
| Keyword | Placement |
| Great Horwood | Title, meta, headers, throughout body |
| Village in Buckinghamshire | Introduction, location and lifestyle sections |
| Great Horwood history | Historic overview section |
| Living in Great Horwood | Real estate and relocation section |
| Things to do in Great Horwood | Activities and nearby attractions |
Internal links should lead to pages about:
- Buckinghamshire walks
- Schools in Milton Keynes
- UK village property buying guides
Conclusion
With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and strong sense of community, Great Horwood stands out as one of Buckinghamshire’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re stopping by on a countryside walk or considering a move, this idyllic village offers both charm and convenience.
Take a step back from the rush of modern life—Great Horwood is waiting to welcome you.
FAQs
1. Where is Great Horwood located?
Great Horwood is in North Buckinghamshire, between Buckingham and Milton Keynes, near the A421.
2. Is Great Horwood a good place to live?
Yes. It offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, a friendly community, good schools, and access to major towns and transport links.
3. Does Great Horwood have a village pub?
Yes, The Swan Inn is the village’s main pub, known for traditional food and a welcoming atmosphere.
4. Are there any schools in Great Horwood?
Yes, the village has a primary school, and secondary schools are nearby in Winslow and Milton Keynes.
5. What are nearby places of interest?
Visitors can enjoy Stowe Gardens, Winslow market, Bletchley Park, and hiking in the Chiltern Hills.
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