Experience the charm of an English market town that’s small in size but offers big attractions, including a famous castle and racecourse, and stunning countryside.
Although it is a relatively small town, Newbury is one of the most prominent urban centres in Berkshire. It offers rich culture and history alongside contemporary conveniences. Discover the delights of this pretty town and use it as a base to explore the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, located on Newbury’s doorstep.
The River Kennet and the Kennet and Avon Canal wind their way through the town, creating a scenic backdrop. Enjoy a canal boat cruise through the English landscape or take a leisurely walk or cycle. Find more natural beauty at the indoor Living Rainforest, a unique and vast conservation project housed under glass. It is home to many rare and endangered plants.
Visit Newbury’s historic attractions too. Shaw House, which played important roles in the Civil War and World War II, is a fabulous example of an Elizabethan manor and is open to the public. The crumbling remains and towering gate house of the mighty 14th-century Donnington Castle offer the romance of bygone years.
It is Highclere Castle, however, that is the most well-known historic attraction in the area. It’s the seat of the Earl of Carnarvon and the set for the television drama Downton Abbey. Take the opportunity to visit this wonderful estate when it is open to the public.
Enjoy a shopping trip to Newbury’s modern malls and independent local stores. The Kennet Shopping Centre offers high street brands and plenty of eating options. Parkway is an open-air shopping development in the heart of town.
When it comes to sport and the arts, Newbury doesn’t disappoint. The Corn Exchange is the town’s main arts centre and provides a varied programme. Newbury also hosts an impressive line-up of music and arts festivals throughout the year. Head to the Newbury Racecourse, famed across the world for its horse racing events, for a memorable day out.
Newbury is about a 1.5-hour drive from London. The journey by train takes from 1.5 to 2 hours. The town itself is small enough to walk around. There is also public transportation and plenty of parking available.
