MORE than 14 million visitors have passed through the gates at Bekonscot over the last 85 years but the frequent visits of one particular family are the most memorable.

It is believed the Royal family first visited the model village in 1934 on the eve of Queen Elizabeth’s 8th birthday.

Three generations of the royals have enjoyed a visit to the Beaconsfield model village over the years, according to the Bekonscot history books.

As a child Queen Elizabeth made a number of visits to see the miniature village and she even brought her own children after her coronation.

The first official royal visit was recorded on Friday, April 20, 1934.

It is believed the Queen returned several times over the next few years alongside Princess Margaret, Queen Mary and the King.

Marketing manager, Maura Buckland, said: “As the world’s oldest model village, Bekonscot has a long history.

“The royal visits were something everyone looks back fondly on and is something a lot of people still show an interest in.

“We have pictures of the Queen’s visits still on display alongside many other pictures from the last 85-years.”

AS part of Bekonscot’s anniversary celebrations the BFP is presenting a month-long special looking back over the past 85 years of the model village.

Over our next three editions we will be featuring a different part of Bekonscot’s illustrious history.

Read next week to find out how the village has affected families across the country.

Bekonscot will officially celebrate being open to the public on the weekend of August 9.

To share your memories of Bekonscot please email andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk

Competition:

The model village is offering Bucks Free Press readers the chance to win some great prizes.

Find all ten Bekonscot bears around the miniature village to be in with a chance of winning the competition.

The lucky winner will receive a special prize and have their picture printed in the BFP.

Terms and conditions apply.