History
The history of Newbury can be traced back to the 11th century, when it was founded as a new borough following the Norman Conquest. The town boasts a number of striking 17th-century buildings while the surrounding area was the site of two battles during the period of the English Civil War. The second of these, the Second Battle of Newbury, left Donnington Castle in ruins. Travel north from the town and you'll find the castle, originally founded by Sir Richard Abberbury the Elder in 1386 and taken under royal control during the Tudor period. Only the gatehouse of the castle survives but the site is definitely worth a visit if you're interested in the area's history.
Also of interest to history buffs are nearby Grimsbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort that overlooks the Kennet and Pang valley, and Shaw House, built in 1581 by Thomas Dolman who had connections to Newbury's affluent cloth industry. During the Second Battle of Newbury the house was used as the headquarters of Charles I while a battle raged in the gardens. Highclere Castle is also within driving distance of Newbury, a Jacobethan country house that serves as the main filming location for the TV show Downton Abbey.
Outdoors
Several areas of outstanding natural beauty, including the vast North Wessex Downs, surround Newbury town. If you're travelling with kids in town, 4 Kingdom's Adventure Park has plenty of outdoor activities to keep them occupied. Bucklebury Farm Park also has plenty for family trips, including indoor and outdoor play areas, daily tractor safari rides and a number of nature trails to follow. Animal lovers should head to The UK Wolf Conservation Trust, featuring 10 wolves and a number of events and talks including regular Wolf Keeper Days and Wolf Walks.
Food and drink
Newbury is home to a selection of traditional English teashops, pubs and restaurants. Teashop By The Canal is housed in a Grade II listed building and serves an indulgent range of teas and scones. The Hoggit & Hoof is a friendly restaurant in the centre of town that serves some excellent cuts of steak, and The White Horse is a traditional English pub and a great place to try some of the local ales.
Horse racing
One of the main attractions in Newbury is Newbury Racecourse, a popular racecourse with a history of over 100 years. As well as horseracing, the course has a number of luxury restaurants including the award-winning Hennessy and The Racegoers Restaurant, featuring panoramic views of the final furlong.
