Pastimes and Pixels: Games Through the Ages

Enjoy a fun-filled and interactive day out at Pastimes and Pixels, where play takes centre stage at Chiltern Open Air Museum.
Explore how people have relaxed, competed and entertained themselves across the centuries with a wide variety of hands-on games and activities set throughout the Museum’s historic site. From the simplicity of traditional pastimes to the excitement of modern arcade classics, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Try your skills on retro arcade machines, including well-known favourites such as Space Invaders, Big Buck Hunter and Strike a Light. Challenge friends and family, relive nostalgic moments, or discover these iconic games for the first time.
Step further back in time with historic board games and Victorian amusements, offering a fascinating insight into life before digital entertainment. Outdoors, enjoy a selection of traditional lawn games in a relaxed setting among our heritage buildings.
For a touch of classic fairground fun, test your aim and timing with traditional games such as Splat the Rat.
Perfect for families, groups and visitors of all ages, Pastimes and Pixels offers a lively and engaging way to experience the history of play.
Event highlights
• Retro arcade games, including classic favourites
• Historic board games to learn and play
• Victorian games and traditional amusements
• Outdoor lawn games for all ages
• Classic fairground challenges, including Splat the Rat
• Set within the Museum’s unique historic buildings and grounds