Things To Do In Olney: Hare Hunt and Historic Market Town Guide

Nestled in the rolling hills of Buckinghamshire, Olney is a quintessentially English market town famous for its striking limestone architecture, historic lace-making industry, and the world-renowned Shrove Tuesday Pancake Race.

Why Visit Olney?

Olney is a living museum of social history, literature, and community spirit. This is where "Amazing Grace" was written by John Newton. The annual Pancake Race has been held continuously since 1445.

Top Things To Do in Olney

1. Find the Olney Hares (Sculpture Trail)

Decorated fibreglass hare sculptures hidden around town, celebrating the poet William Cowper's beloved pet hares.

2. Visit the Cowper and Newton Museum

Housed in Orchard Side, the Georgian house where William Cowper lived from 1768 to 1786. Learn about Cowper's poetry and John Newton, who wrote "Amazing Grace."

3. Explore the Independent Shops and Cafes

Family-run shops, high-end boutiques, antique dealers, and artisanal food producers line the High Street.

4. Visit St Peter and St Paul Church

A magnificent 14th-century church with a soaring 185-foot stone spire, and the final resting place of John Newton.

5. Walk Along the River Great Ouse

Well-marked footpaths across Clifton Meadow with wildlife, wildflowers, and views of the church spire.

6. Visit the Olney Pancake Race Museum

The Olney Pancake Race dates back to 1445. Since 1950, the town competes with Liberal, Kansas in an international race.

7. Try a HUNTA Treasure Hunt

The HUNTA Hare Hunt in Olney is a self-guided, GPS-enabled treasure hunt. Solve 20 interactive clues on a 1.4-kilometer loop through historic streets.

Family Activities in Olney

Emberton Country Park offers 200 acres of parkland with lakes and play areas. The HUNTA treasure hunt keeps kids engaged.

Hidden Gems in Olney

Rose Court and Orchard Court are stone-paved alleyways once home to cottage lace-makers, now housing independent boutiques.

How To Get To Olney

By Car: M1 Junction 14, then A509 north. By Train: London Euston to Milton Keynes Central, then bus 21 or 41.

Nearby Destinations

Visit Northampton or Market Harborough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Olney worth visiting?

Yes, Olney is a beautiful historic market town with the Pancake Race tradition, literary heritage, and the HUNTA hare sculpture trail.

How long should I spend in Olney?

A full day to explore the High Street, visit the museum, walk the riverside, and complete the HUNTA treasure hunt.

Is Olney good for families?

Yes, Olney is very family-friendly with safe, walkable streets and the HUNTA treasure hunt.

What is the best time to visit Olney?

Any time of year. Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Race day) is special. Spring and summer offer the best weather.

Final Thoughts

Olney has spectacular Georgian architecture, rich literary heritage, and beautiful riverside walks. Ready to start? Book the HUNTA Hare Hunt in Olney on hunta.online.

#HUNTA #Olney #Buckinghamshire #TreasureHunt #DaysOut