The Roald Dahl Museum
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre opened in 2005 to celebrate the life of the renowned children’s author Roald Dahl. This venue has transformed an old coaching inn and yard into a captivating series of galleries.
The Boy and Solo galleries narrate Dahl’s life and work through immersive films, engaging objects, and lively interactive displays. Additionally, the Story Centre features a replica of Dahl’s famous Writing Hut, allowing visitors the unique opportunity to sit in his chair.
Roald Dahl Museum Review
I visited the museum with my four-year-old daughter, who recognized only Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Fantastic Mr Fox. However, since she enjoyed both stories, I anticipated a delightful day trip from London.
The train journey was efficient, taking about 40 minutes, and from the station, it is just a quick 5-minute walk. Great Missenden is a charming village where visitors can pick up a free map at the museum, featuring a ‘Roald Dahl Village Trail’ that highlights significant locations connected to the author.
Tickets are consistently available at the door, and additional options can be purchased in the well-stocked gift shop, which offers a variety of items perfect for future gifts, such as t-shirts, aprons, books, and toys.
Upon entry, you receive a wristband, granting the freedom to explore the village during your visit. Every child is equipped with a ‘My Story Ideas Book’ and pencil, encouraging them to jot down notes throughout the museum—a technique that Roald Dahl himself employed for preparing stories.
The museum encompasses two main galleries: the Boy Gallery and the Solo Gallery. The Boy Gallery showcases his childhood, featuring walls that look and even smell like chocolate! The Solo Gallery provides insights into his later life along with interactive activities like stampers and videos.
The Story Centre is filled with activities, including movie-making, crafts, story sacks, and the highlight: a reproduction of Roald Dahl’s Writing Hut. Notably, Dahl did not write at a traditional desk due to discomfort from a wartime injury; instead, he preferred a comfortable armchair with a unique ‘desk’ made from his lap, covered with green billiard cloth. Visitors can sit in his chair, reflecting on the incredible storytelling that originated from that spot.
Cafe Twit
When hunger strikes, the whimsically named Cafe Twit awaits at the museum’s entrance. Named after Dahl’s book The Twits, this café includes ample seating in the museum’s courtyard as well as some extra indoor tables. Everything is freshly prepared, and the environment is notably child-friendly, adorned with plenty of references to Roald Dahl’s stories. Signature delights include a Whizzpopper—foamy hot chocolate topped with raspberry coulis, Maltesers, and marshmallows. It’s a must-try!
Roald Dahl Museum Visitor Information
Address:
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
81-83 High Street
Great Missenden
Buckinghamshire
HP16 0AL
Telephone: 01494 892192
Getting There:
Great Missenden is situated in the picturesque Buckinghamshire countryside, about 20 miles northwest of London. Trains depart from London Marylebone, running twice an hour. The short journey of 40 minutes leads visitors to a simple walk from the station to the museum—just turn right, then right again, and you’ll be on the High Street; it’s a two-minute stroll on your left.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 10am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Closed on Mondays.
Tickets: Tickets are consistently available at the door, although checking the website for current pricing is advisable.
