The county of Berkshire lies to the west of London and borders directly on the Greater London Area. Berkshire borders Hampshire to the south, Wiltshire to the west, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire to the north and Surrey to the south-east.
In 1930, the county was even given the title “Royal Berkshire”. This is because Berkshire is home to Windsor Castle, which was Queen Elizabeth II’s declared favorite weekend residence and is an official royal residence outside London.
Berkshire is one of the oldest counties in England. The name Berkshire has its origins in the Celtic language and stands for bearroc, which means hilly. Furthermore, the term “shire” in “Berkshire” goes back to the time of Alfred the Great, who was the first to divide the Anglo-Saxon kingdom into shires.
The administrative seat of the county is Reading. The mighty Thames flows through both Berkshire and Windsor. It virtually separates the town of Windsor from the neighboring town of Eton. There are popular boat trips from London to Windsor.
Even today, the eastern part of Berkshire is still largely covered in woodland, such as Windsor Forest, but there are numerous industrial sites and economically important towns. These important Berkshire towns include Hungerford, Maidenhead, Newbury, Reading, Wokingham, and of course Windsor and Eton.
Basildon Park
Basildon Park is a Palladian manor house in the English county of Berkshire. It is situated between the villages of Upper Basildon and Lower Basildon, not far from the town of Reading. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.
The manor house is surrounded by extensive parkland and offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. It is known for its elegant staircase, ornate original stucco work and an unusual octagonal room painted in dark red. These features add to the unique charm and historical significance of Basildon Park.
Basildon Park is home to a beautiful collection of paintings and furniture, giving visitors a glimpse into the past. There is also the Shell Room, a unique collection of various shells and snail shells that intrigue and fascinate visitors.
Reading
At first glance, there don’t seem to be many remnants of history in Reading. But this impression is deceptive, as the Reading Heritage Walk proves. The walk takes you through 1,400 years of English history and starts at the Town Hall from the late 19th century.
With its Victorian Gothic façade – a typically English phenomenon – it is a fantastic sight. On the Town Hall Square you will then find one of the most beautiful churches in Reading: St. Laurence’s. 800 years of history have passed this building by almost without a trace. You will find many interesting gravestones from the 17th century in the adjoining cemetery.
Nearby you will discover the ruins of Reading Abbey. Its foundation stone was laid in 1121 by Henry I, the son of William the Conqueror. After its completion in 1164, the abbey was the political and social center of Reading for 400 years – and the abbey still has special significance today, as it is one of the few places where an English king is buried. Henry I was buried under the altar after his death in 1136.
From there, the route continues to Forbury Gardens, beautifully designed Victorian gardens with a lion enthroned in the middle, commemorating the fallen of the Battle of Maiwand in Afghanistan. Incidentally, the site of the gardens is said to have been the location of the Battle of Reading described above.
Eton
If you take a walk from Windsor and cross the Thames over Windsor Bridge, you will almost seamlessly reach Eton, the traditional home of Eton College. Eton is where the pupils of British high society and of course the royal family go to school.
The biggest attraction and reason to visit Eton is Eton College and the museums associated with Eton College, which are well worth a visit. It is a tranquil place. Especially when you cross the bridge from Windsor, where so many tourists are on their way to Windsor Castle, the quiet and pretty Eton reveals itself with a special flair.
Eton College is the largest private boarding school in England and the second oldest school in England. The oldest school in England is Winchester College in Winchester, in the county of Hampshire, which was founded in the 14th century.
When Henry VI founded the college, he stipulated that 70 pupils should be admitted each year without paying fees. In this way, he also wanted to give pupils without the necessary financial means access to education. These 70 pupils are known as the “King Scholars”.
These traditions are still upheld by Eton College today.
In addition to Eton College, Eton offers picturesque walks along the Thames and through the historic streets with their traditional stores, cafés and small restaurants, especially along Eton High Street.
Windsor
Windsor brings back memories of times gone by, as many things, not just the county of Royal Berkshire, bear the epithet “Royal”. As you explore the sights in Windsor, you will stumble across references to the British royal family at every turn. The streets of Windsor are lined with numerous traditional and modern stores, small cafés and restaurants. Hidden in between are small art galleries and antique stores.
Windsor Castle, located in the middle of the town, dominates the town and is, of course, Windsor’s main attraction and the main reason why so many holidaymakers travel to Windsor. Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world. Today you can visit large parts of the impressive castle, including the famous St. George’s Chapel.
In addition to St. George’s Chapel, the State Apartments at Windsor Castle are a special attraction. They were designed in the 19th century, with each individual room following its own architectural style. There is one room furnished in the Gothic style, another in the Rococo style and so on.
Several royal marriages have taken place in St. George’s Chapel. The chapel is also the resting place of many of the country’s kings and queens, including Queen Elizabeth II.
In general, the flag is raised when the king is in the castle.
Windsor Castle is bordered by Windsor Great Park, a large, beautiful park that is perfect for walks. The various walking trails include the “Long Walk”, which is more than four kilometers long. There are lakes, gardens and bridle paths in the park.
Ascot
Royal Ascot, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, Ascot racecourse developed from its humble beginnings into a premier sporting and social event. The first race, known as “Her Majesty’s Plate”, featured specific weight requirements for the horses and marked the beginning of an enduring tradition.
Over the centuries, Ascot Racecourse underwent significant developments. In the 19th century, the event grew in importance and attracted the aristocracy and leading figures of society. The Gold Cup, introduced in 1807, became the highlight of the event, a tradition that continues to this day.
In the 20th century, the racecourse was modernized, including improvements to the grandstands and facilities, to accommodate the growing numbers of visitors and provide a first-class experience.
The royal family plays a crucial role in the history of Ascot, lending it an aura of grandeur and tradition. The presence of Queen or King of England is an integral part of the event and underlines the importance of racing in British culture.
The daily royal procession, a highlight of the event, attracts great attention and symbolizes the close connection between the monarchy and Ascot racecourse.
Cliveden
Cliveden Manor is beautifully situated 40 meters above the River Thames. The land also includes the islands of Bavin’s Gulls in the river.
We can give individual travelers a good tip for enjoying this park as much as possible. However, you have to be a good walker. There are 170 steep steps leading directly up from the banks of the Thames. The reward is a stay in a wonderful landscape and ultimately the most beautiful possible view of Cliveden House.
Today’s manor house and country estate is the third house on this site. Originally there were two predecessors, built in 1666 and 1824, both of which were destroyed by fire. An octagonal temple from 1735 and the Blenheim Pavilion, built in 1727, are two surviving relics from the old days. In 1851, the current listed building was built by architect Charles Barry for the 2nd Duke of Sutherland in the Italianate style.
William Waldorf Astor acquired Cliveden in 1893. It was his wedding present to his son Waldorf Astor in 1906. When Nancy Astor resided here, the building was the meeting place for a group of political intellectuals in the 1920s and 30s. During the 1960s, it was the scene of key events in the Profumo affair.
The British Army Minister John Profumo met the mannequin Christine Keeler at Cliveden during a pool party. Stanford University in California used the estate as an overseas campus during the 1970s. Since it has been owned by the National Trust, it has been used as a 5-star hotel and can be visited on guided tours to a limited extent.
Pangbourne
Nestling along the River Thames, Pangbourne is subject of much literary inspiration. A charming place, undeserving of being labelled Pongbourne by author DH Lawrence.
His letter in 1919, sold at auction in Edinburgh, was somewhat uncomplimentary about the village and its people. Had he visited today, we’re sure he’d have come away with a much brighter impression and here’s why…
Kenneth Grahame, author of ‘Wind in the Willows’, lived in the town and the Swan Public House is referred to in Jerome K. Jerome’s ‘Three Men in a Boat’.
Today, Pangbourne is still a charming place, full of character, with individual shops, pubs and cafes, an ideal place to potter. Stop and watch the waterside wildlife while enjoying a pint of beer, glass of wine or why not try The Herd Restaurant, famous for its steaks.
Surrounded by picturesque countryside that cradles the River, many visitors come through Pangbourne on the National Thames Pathway but stop to enjoy the town’s tranquillity.
The water meadows, owned and maintained by the parish council are a popular spot for a picnic or a stroll. It’s also the site of the annual village fete, a wonderful English tradition.
Another draw to families is Beale Park at Lower Basildon, a Riverside park, home to many difference species of birds as well as goats and ponies. There are also picnic areas and other great facilities fo those with small children.
Maidenhead
Maidenhead is situated on the banks of the River Thames in Berkshire, close to the M4 motorway. The town lies on the famous Great Western Railway, famously designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
The town centre is only a short walk from the train station with all shops, restaurants and leisure facilities within a 5-minute walk.
The town centre has a range of well-known high street shops as well as a growing number of independent stores offering something a little bit different. The Nicholsons Shopping Centre offers lots of choice under one roof and along with the rest of the town ensures Maidenhead offers you all you need in a convenient and compact location.
Discover Maidenhead’s fascinating past at the Maidenhead Heritage Centre where there are regular exhibitions, talks on the town’s history and an opportunity to fly a spitfire simulator!
Enjoy a walk along Maidenhead’s riverside to Boulters Lock and Ray Mill Island or take to the water (in the warmer months) with the Little Green Boat Company.
Maidenhead is home to a creative community and plays host to many annual events throughout the year.
There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Maidenhead town centre whether you want to linger over a three-course meal or a grab a quick snack. Choose from a great range of pubs, cafes and bakeries, restaurants and sandwich bars.
Newbury
One of Berkshire’s largest towns, Newbury is a perfect place for a short break or as a base to explore the heart of South East England.
Set along the banks of the River Kennet and the Kennet and Avon Canal, Newbury has a fresh, rural atmosphere combined with great shopping facilities and attractions. The retail offer is a good mix of well known high street names, local independents and the Parkway, an open street development in the heart of the town.
There are plenty of Newbury restaurants around the area to feast your eyes on so why not take to the town and explore the amount of food on offer. The Corn Exchange arts centre provides a wide variety of entertainment.
The countryside surrounding Newbury is part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Kennet and Avon Canal runs right through the district from the outskirts of Reading to Hungerford.
Newbury is home to a top class racecourse as well as being home to the country’s finest racing stables. If you like to spend time on the golf course, coarse fishing or strolling along the banks of the Kennet and Avon Canal, cycling or cantering over the rolling Berkshire Downs, there is plenty to offer everyone.
Donnington
Donnington Castle was built in the late 14th century by Sir Richard Abberbury, a soldier, courtier and diplomat who served the Black Prince and his son Richard II. More luxurious residence than fortress, it was one of several castles built around this time by nobles and gentry who had profited from England’s wars with France.
Taken into royal control in 1503, Donnington remained a prestigious residence in the 16th century, notably being fought over by Elizabeth Russell, its keeper under Elizabeth I, and the Earl of Nottingham.
It played a major role during the English Civil War, when it endured a 20-month siege. After the castle’s surrender, most of it was demolished, and only the magnificent gatehouse was left standing.
Hungerford
In the far west of West Berkshire, alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal and surrounded by beautiful countryside, the charming market town of Hungerford boasts impressive transport links for a town of its size.
It is conveniently placed for access to the M4 motorway and is on the main train line from London Paddington to the West Country.
Hungerford is best known today for its antique shops and fairs that adorn the town centre. Hungerford town centre is also home to other unique shops and boutiques, where you can lose yourself for a delightful few hours. There’s also a range of warm and friendly pubs, cheery tea shops and restaurants to tempt you.
Tradition is the cornerstone of several events in Hungerford. Tutti Day, once a nationwide affair, takes place on the second Tuesday after Easter. It marks the end of the administrative year, and nowadays is also a day of great festivity.
The Tutti-men are guided by the Orangeman to each house in the town with commoners’ rights. In the past the Tutti-men collected a ‘head-penny’ from each commoner by way of a tip for keeping the peace during the past year.
This custom lapsed many years ago, but the tradition of the Tutti-men asking for a kiss from the lady of the house has not lapsed, and one can often see them climbing ladders to achieve their kiss and present an orange in return.”
Wokingham
Wokingham has a rich history, with many historic buildings and monuments to explore. From the ruins of the old Wokingham Castle to the Grade I listed St. Mary’s Church, there is plenty to discover.
Wokingham is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK. From the rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs to the lush green meadows of the Thames Valley.
Wokingham is home to a variety of restaurants, pubs and cafes, offering a range of delicious local dishes. From traditional English fare to international cuisine, there is something to suit all tastes.
Wokingham means ‘Wocca’s people’s home’. Wocca was apparently a Saxon chieftain who would also have owned lands at Wokefield in Berkshire and Woking in Surrey. During the Tudor period, Wokingham was well known as a producer of silk. Some of the houses involved in these cottage industries are still to be seen in Rose Street.
Holme Grange Craft Village is located in beautiful countryside – and yet is within one mile of Wokingham Town Centre. They offer a wide range of goods and services and a fabulous tea shop in a historic barn opening onto a beautiful enclosed courtyard where you can sit and relax while you enjoy your refreshment.