National Paralympic Heritage Centre

Looking for interesting places to go with the kids in Buckinghamshire? Tour the National Paralympic Heritage Centre to learn about the origins of the Paralympic Games. From modest beginnings in the late 1940s at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann encouraged wounded veterans to play sport in order to support their rehabilitation from spinal injuries. This led to local competitions, later becoming the Stoke Mandeville Games and then what is now recognised internationally as the Paralympic Games.

Widely acknowledged as the birthplace of the Paralympic movement, the National Paralympic Heritage Centre at Stoke Mandeville Stadium celebrates and explores the unique story. Interactive displays bring to life the history of the Paralympics, showcasing the determination, sportsmanship and vision that gave the world the Paralympic Games.

Find out about the life and work of  Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann, key milestones in the journey from the 1948 Stoke Mandeville Games to the present-day Paralympic Games, the development of wheelchair sports and Paralympic ceremonies.

Audio and BSL Tours are available. With an exciting calendar of family-friendly events and activities throughout the year, including the ever-popular Meet the Paralympian events, which give visitors the opportunity to listen to inspiring Paralympic athletes share their stories and experiences of competing at an elite level, there is lots to explore and learn at the National Paralympic Heritage Centre.

Opening times

Before visiting, it is important to check the websites of both the National Paralympic Heritage Centre and Stoke Mandeville Stadium to confirm opening dates and times. The Heritage Centre is located within the Stadium so is dependent on the Stadium’s hours.