Berkshire Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and transportation options in Berkshire, South East England.


Introduction to Berkshire

Berkshire is a county located in South East England, just west of London. It is known for its picturesque countryside, rich history, and wealth of cultural attractions. With a population of over 900,000 people, it is one of England’s most populous counties.

Berkshire’s economy is largely based on service industries, including tourism, technology, and finance. The county is home to several major corporations, including Vodafone, Microsoft, and Virgin Media.

List of Places to Visit in Berkshire

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Berkshire has a rich history, with many important historical attractions that reflect this. Some of the most culturally important attractions in Berkshire include:

  • Windsor Castle: The largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been the home of British monarchs for over 900 years. Visitors can tour the castle, see the State Apartments, and view the grounds.
  • Highclere Castle: Known as the filming location for the popular television show Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is a grand estate that dates back to the Victorian era. Tours of the castle and grounds are available.
  • Reading Abbey: Founded in 1121, Reading Abbey was once one of the most important religious centers in England. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the abbey, which include the impressive gateway and the chapter house.

Natural Attractions of Berkshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who enjoy spending time in nature, Berkshire has plenty to offer. Some of the most popular outdoor attractions in the area include:

  • The Ridgeway: This ancient trail stretches over 85 miles and dates back over 5,000 years. It offers stunning views of the countryside and is popular among hikers and cyclists.
  • The Kennet & Avon Canal: This waterway cuts through the heart of Berkshire, offering visitors the opportunity to take a boat tour or enjoy a leisurely walk along the towpath.
  • Basildon Park: This Georgian mansion is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland, making it a popular spot for picnics and outdoor events.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Berkshire

Berkshire is home to some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes in England. Some popular routes include:

  • The Thames Path: This route follows the River Thames for 184 miles, offering stunning views of the countryside and historic landmarks along the way.
  • The Swinley Forest Trails: These trails wind through the beautiful Swinley Forest and offer a variety of routes for hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
  • The Greenway Walk: This 12-mile route connects several of Berkshire’s most popular attractions, including Windsor Castle, Eton College, and Dorney Lake.

Best Things to Do in Berkshire: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions listed above, Berkshire has plenty of other activities and tours to offer visitors. Some of the best things to do in the area include:

  • The Royal Windsor Racecourse: This iconic venue hosts a variety of horse racing events throughout the year, as well as other special events and performances.
  • The Newbury Corn Exchange: This lively arts venue hosts a variety of performances, including live music, comedy, and theater.
  • The Visit Windsor Walking Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the historic town of Windsor, highlighting its most important landmarks and cultural attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Berkshire

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Berkshire, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1-2: Windsor - Spend the first two days exploring Windsor Castle, the town of Windsor, and the surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Basildon Park - Spend a day exploring the gardens and mansion at Basildon Park, as well as the surrounding parkland.

Day 4: The Swinley Forest Trails - Spend the day hiking or biking through the beautiful Swinley Forest.

Day 5: Reading - Spend a day exploring the town of Reading, including the ruins of Reading Abbey and the Forbury Gardens.

Day 6: The Thames Path - Spend the day walking or cycling along the Thames Path, taking in the stunning views of the countryside.

Day 7: Newbury - Spend the final day of your trip exploring the town of Newbury, including the Newbury Corn Exchange and the nearby Highclere Castle.

Food and Drink Scene of Berkshire

Berkshire is home to a variety of unique and delicious dishes, as well as a vibrant food and drink scene. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fat rascals: These sweet, fruity scones are a local specialty in Berkshire.
  • Hungerford sausage: This traditional English sausage is made with pork, seasonings, and breadcrumbs.
  • Windsor cake: This rich, fruity cake is typically made with almonds and dried fruits.

Local Beverages

  • Local cider: Berkshire is known for its delicious apple cider, which can be found at many local pubs and restaurants.
  • Real ale: Berkshire is home to a variety of local breweries, many of which produce delicious real ales.

Where to Stay in Berkshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Berkshire has a variety of accommodations to suit any budget and preference. Some popular options include:

  • The Oakley Court: This grand Victorian mansion is located on the banks of the River Thames and offers luxurious accommodations.
  • The Forbury Roseate: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of Reading and offers modern amenities and a chic atmosphere.
  • The Royal Adelaide Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the town of Windsor and offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Berkshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from Berkshire, consider the following options:

  • Local honey: Berkshire is home to several beekeepers who produce delicious, high-quality honey.
  • Handmade crafts: From pottery to textiles, there are plenty of local artisans in Berkshire who produce unique, handmade crafts.
  • Local food products: In addition to the dishes listed above, Berkshire is home to a variety of other delicious local food products, including artisanal cheeses and homemade preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Berkshire

Berkshire has a rich history and culture, with many local customs and traditions that reflect this. Some important cultural events and traditions in Berkshire include:

  • The Royal Ascot: This high-profile horse racing event takes place every year in Ascot, drawing crowds from around the world.
  • The Windsor Festival: This annual music and arts festival features performances by some of the world’s top artists and musicians.
  • The Eton Wall Game: This traditional and unusual game is played at Eton College and dates back over 250 years.

Best Time to Visit Berkshire

The best time to visit Berkshire is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is typically warm and sunny, and many of the county’s outdoor attractions are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Berkshire

Do:

  • Do spend time exploring the countryside and taking advantage of Berkshire’s outdoor attractions.
  • Do visit some of the county’s cultural attractions, including Windsor Castle and Reading Abbey.
  • Do try some of the local food and drink specialties.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t ignore the county’s cultural history and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to take advantage of the many transportation options in the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Berkshire

Berkshire is generally a safe county, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Berkshire

Visitors to Berkshire should take the same health precautions they would take when traveling to any other part of England. It is recommended that visitors ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and take extra precautions during flu season.

Getting to Berkshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Berkshire

The closest airports to Berkshire are London Heathrow and London Gatwick, both of which are located within easy reach of the county.

Bus Stations Near Berkshire

Berkshire is well-connected by bus, with several major bus stations located throughout the county, including Reading Bus Station, Newbury Bus Station, and Slough Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors to Berkshire can also choose to travel by train, with several major stations located throughout the county, including Reading Station, Slough Station, and Maidenhead Station.

How to Get Around in Berkshire

Berkshire is easily navigable by car, with several major roads and highways running through the county. Visitors can also travel by bus, train, or taxi.

Where to Go Next from Berkshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for nearby destinations to visit after exploring Berkshire, consider the following options:

  • London: Just a short train ride from Berkshire, the capital city of England is a bustling metropolis with plenty of attractions to see and things to do.
  • Oxford: This historic university town is located just east of Berkshire and offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.
  • Bath: This charming and picturesque city is located to the west of Berkshire and is known for its historic Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture.

Conclusion

There is so much to see and do in Berkshire, from exploring historic castles and ruins to hiking through the beautiful countryside. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or outdoor adventures, this county is sure to have something that piques your interest. So why not plan your next trip to Berkshire today?

Map of Berkshire Map of Berkshire


    Bray
    Goring and Streatley
    Maidenhead
    Newbury and Thatcham