Exhibition

The Saxons

28 March - 1 November 2026

With a National Art Pass you get

Free entry

Three lives. Three burial sites. Three extraordinary stories.

Opening Saturday 28 March 2026, we invite you to step into the world of the Saxons in our major new exhibition exploring Buckinghamshire’s early medieval past.

The SAXONS brings together extraordinary archaeological discoveries to tell powerful human stories. Through real artefacts, immersive displays, and vivid storytelling, the exhibition reveals how people lived, fought, believed, and were remembered over 1,300 years ago.

Step into the World of the Saxons

Discover the stories behind three remarkable Saxon burial sites, each revealing a different level of status and way of life:

  • The Princely Burial at Taplow: An elite grave filled with exquisite treasures, offering a glimpse into wealth, power, and ceremony.

  • The Warlord of Marlow: A rare military burial that sheds light on warfare, leadership, and identity in Saxon Buckinghamshire.

  • The Wendover Saxon Cemetery: 122 graves uncovered during HS2 works, with artefacts from these burials displayed to the public for the very first time.

Together, these discoveries reveal how Saxon communities honoured their dead — and what those burials tell us about their way of life.

Meet the People of the Past

As you move through the exhibition, you’ll be guided by three on-screen Saxons, created in collaboration with re-enactment specialists Wulfheodenas. They bring history to life, helping you imagine the sights, sounds, and stories of Saxon Buckinghamshire.

Why Visit The Saxons?

For Families

  • Meet the Saxons through engaging films, sounds, and immersive experiences.

  • Hands-on interactives and digital storytelling bring history vividly to life.

  • Discover real artefacts and try the fun family trail and creative activities.

For History Enthusiasts

  • See significant archaeological discoveries displayed together for the first time.

  • Explore rare artefacts loaned from the British Museum and HS2 archaeology.

  • Gain new insights into Saxon society, craftsmanship, and belief.

  • Learn how modern science reveals secrets of the past — from weaponry to jewellery.

Opening Day: Saturday 28 March 2026

Join us for a vibrant opening celebration featuring re-enactors, storytelling, and hands-on crafts. Meet Saxon warriors and craftspeople, hear stories inspired by real discoveries, and take part in activities for all ages — the perfect way to bring the Saxon world to life.

Plan Your Visit

Step back into an age of warriors, treasures, and village life — and discover the Saxons as never before, right here in Buckinghamshire.

This listing is supplied by one of our museum partners and is not moderated by Art Fund.

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Visitor information

Address

Discover Bucks Museum

9 Church Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 2QP
01296 331441

Opening times

Museum Opening Hours

Wednesday – Friday 10am – 3pm
Saturday 10am – 4pm
Sunday 12pm – 4pm

During Bucks Holidays we are open Mon - Sun

Last entry for the museum is 30 mins before close.

Roald Dahl Children's Gallery Opening Hours

Saturday 10am – 4pm
Sunday 12pm – 4pm

During Bucks Holidays we are open Mon - Sun

Last entry for the museum is 1 hour before close.

Exclusions and safety measures

The National Art Pass offer applies to museum entry. Entry to the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery is charged separately. Art Pass tickets can be booked online or in person.

Visitor information