Welcome to Berkshire by Kingfisher Visitor Guides

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Contents

09 Welcome A regal and romantic county packed with historical interest.

12 Love Berkshire There are many reasons to love it here – try some of these for starters.

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14 History & heritage This is a region renowned for its ancient and fascinating past.

20 Days out Hidden gems, iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions – it’s all here.

30 Weekender Tight for time? Here are some ideas for a memorable short break to this region.

32 Shopping Shopaholics will love Berkshire for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, high street staples and quirky independents.

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

CONTENTS

70 42 Eating out From ramen to risotto and vegan to steakhouse, every type of food lover is catered for here.

56 After dark The nightlife in Berkshire is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs and live music venues.

62 Arts & culture This county is full of inspiring arts and culture and is overflowing with festivals and exhibitions for you to discover.

70 Things to do Make sure you don’t leave here without checking out these must-see attractions.

72 Sport & leisure There are plenty of opportunities to participate in sport here – but those who prefer to watch are well-catered for too.

76 Travel Getting to this region couldn’t be simpler and visitors can also get around with ease.

78 Beyond Berkshire Although Berkshire has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure.

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WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

Set across seven acres, the restored Monkey Island Estate boasts both a striking white bricked Pavilion and Temple building as well as The Barn building surrounded by beautiful English country gardens with picturesque views of the River Thames. Monkey Island Estate also includes six private residences offering guests a choice of charming period accommodation, just 40 minutes from London. Each of these stunning residences blend classic style and contemporary comfort, offering families and groups their own private countryside escape steeped in stylish yet laid back luxury. The island, with its intriguing history dating back 800 years, has been the haunt of monks, monarchs, aristocrats and writers alike and each of the residences also have a fascinating story to tell, playing host to composer Edward Elgar, Formula One legend Stirling Moss and Thunderbirds creator Sylvia Anderson to name just a few. The landscape is a beautiful combination of mature trees, shrubs and a huge variety of British plants to create a magical journey and sense of place, where guests can enjoy an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of city living. The décor of Monkey Island Estate juxtaposes timeless glamour and traditional features with a modern and relaxed countryside style, creating a unique blend of past and present. Relaxation and pampering in Bray-on-Thames can be found at The Floating Spa, moored on the banks of the island. Wellness experts at Spa Village have created signature treatments such as the Monk’s Elixir treatment and Floating Massage. YTL Hotels Spa Village has taken inspiration for the exclusive signature treatments from the magnificent waterways that surround the island and the past figures who once inhabited the island. The culinary excellence of Bray-on-Thames makes Monkey Island Estate the perfect foodie pilgrimage with it being the only village in the world that lays claim to three Michelin-starred restaurants. Bray has long been a destination for gastronomic-enthusiasts and Monkey Island Estate has also made its mark on the area with Monkey Island Brasserie. The sophisticated yet casual brasserie serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering guests a modern take on British classics, with produce freshly sourced from the surrounding countryside. Signature dishes include Monkey Island Estate smoked salmon, 35 day dry aged sirloin steak and Old Spot pork belly. Following a delicious meal at leisure, guests can enjoy a digestif at The Monkey Bar or The Monkey Lounge with its hand-painted ancient fresco ceiling. Nestled in the estate’s beautiful country gardens with stunning views over the Thames, guests of Monkey Island Estate will discover the Shepherd’s Hideaway. Stylishly furnished with snug blankets and a warming wood burner, the enchanting hideaway will be sure to keep guests cosy even in the winter months. A chilled bottle of Champagne and light refreshments welcome guests to a one of a kind private personalised oasis. During summer months, guests will be offered star-gazing and marshmallow toasting on the open fire-pits.

Bray-on-Thames, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2EE E. enquiries@monkeyislandestate.co.uk T. +44 (0) 1628 623 400

www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

WELCOME

Welcome to Berkshire

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A regal and romantic county packed with historical interest

elcome to Berkshire – and may we congratulate you on your choice of destination. It’s not all pretty surroundings and lovely vistas here, impressive though they undoubtedly are. Berkshire also has great modern shopping, restaurants, arts and culture, and some of the best places to stay in the country. Many attractions are open all year round, so finding something to do is easy. Berkshire has wonderful estates set in oak-lined deer parks and picturesque country downs with grazing horses. There’s something regal about Berkshire because the county is home to Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world. Built by William the Conqueror, Windsor Castle has been a royal home and fortress for more than 900 years. The Queen stays here every June for Royal Ascot and also to attend the service of the Order of the Garter. Situated to the west of London, this romantic county boasts some lovely countryside. The River Thames meanders through the north of the county; towns and villages such as Pangbourne and Cookham sit prettily on its banks. The Berkshire Downs are ripe for exploring for walkers and just as much fun can be had exploring Legoland Resort Windsor, if you’re visiting with the family. All in all, you’ve picked a great time to visit this wonderful county, so please enjoy everything it has to offer!

“There’s something regal about Berkshire because the county is home to Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world – it has been a royal home and fortress for over 900 years”

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The Great British Escape Stoke Park is a luxury 5 AA Red Star Hotel, Spa and Country Club set within 300 acres of beautiful parkland and offers world-class sporting and leisure facilities.

Facilities include: • • • • • • • • • • •

Luxurious 5 AA Red Star Accommodation Award winning Spa 27 hole Championship Golf Course David Leadbetter Golf Academy 3 Restaurants and Bars, including Humphry’s (3 AA Rosette) 13 Tennis Courts (indoor, grass and artificial clay) Indoor Pool State-of-the-art Gym with Fitness, Hot Yoga and Spinning Studios hosting up to 50 classes per week Tinies Kids Club and Crèche Games Room Playground

Situated 35 minutes from London, 7 miles from Heathrow Airport and a short drive from Windsor makes Stoke Park an ideal location and perfect setting for stopovers and luxury breaks. For more information or to book, please contact our Reservations Team on 01753 717172 or email reservations@stokepark.com Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG www.stokepark.com

Reasons to love this region… There are many reasons to love it here – try some of these for starters

HISTORIC HOUSES Throw a penny and you’re sure to hit an historic house here! From beautiful Basildon Park to grand Highclere Castle (TV’s Downton Abbey), there’s so many interesting houses and gardens to stroll around.

FANCY A FLUTTER? Place your bets on the horses at Ascot Racecourse, one of the world’s most famous courses where you can enjoy flat racing and jump racing. Alternatively visit Royal Windsor Racecourse, famous for its evening meetings in the summer, or Newbury Racecourse.

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LOVE BERKSHIRE

WONDERFUL WALKING Walking and cycling opportunities in Berkshire are exceptional. With the North Wessex Downs, Windsor’s Long Walk, Dinton Pastures, the Thames Trail and a whole host of beautiful towns and villages (and of course lots of quality pubs in which to refresh) Berkshire is an amazing place for a stroll.

You’ll also love… FOOD FIT FOR A KING Fine dining fanatics will be in foodie heaven. An incredible eight Berkshire restaurants were awarded Michelin stars in the Michelin Guide 2020 with the three-star cream of the crop being The Fat Duck and Waterside Inn, both in Bray. TREASURES OF THE THAMES Messing about on, in or near it, the River Thames offers year-round pleasure to walkers, rowers, sailors, fishermen and nature lovers. Walkers can follow the Thames Path as far as their legs can carry them. Henley Regatta in July is a calendar highlight.

IT’S REALLY ROYAL Take a wander around Windsor Castle, the Queen’s second home. Enjoy a tour of the State Apartments, see Queens Mary’s Dolls House, or simply enjoy the castle from the outside and watch the Changing of the Guard. Check which flag is flying from the Round Tower; if it’s the Royal Standard then the Queen will be in residence when you visit!

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MEET THE NEXT PM? See where 19 British prime ministers, countless princes, kings and maharajas were educated: Eton College. It can only be visited on guided tours, on summer Fridays, which take in the chapel and the Museum of Eton Life.

EVERYTHING IS AWESOME! With more than 55 rides and attractions, Legoland Windsor Resort is justifiably one of the biggest attractions in the UK. Ideal for smaller children – but parents will love it too!

SUBLIME SHOPPING Whether you enjoy a mall (The Oracle, Reading; The Lexicon, Bracknell) an historic town (Windsor, Hungerford) or a charming village gift shop there’s plenty of choices to help you part with your money!

AMAZING ARTS Visit the Sir Stanley Spencer Gallery, in the pretty village of Cookham, or why not take in a show at Windsor’s famous Royal Theatre, Newbury’s Corn Exchange, or the excellent Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead? In the warmer months many parks and open spaces open themselves up for outdoor performances or cinema screenings too.

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

HISTORY & HERITAGE

Step back in time This is a region renowned for its ancient and fascinating past

he chalk hills and woodlands of what was to become Berkshire were probably first inhabited during the Palaeolithic or Old Stone Age, up to 10,500 years ago, when hunters moved around the area on ancient tracks such as the still present Ridgeway across the Berkshire Downs.

In Roman times, the area was the territory of the Atrebates (a Belgic people who settled the area around 10BC).

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From the early days of the Saxon occupation, the area was disputed between Mercia and Wessex. Mercia gained the upper hand in the mid-7th century; Wessex in the early 9th. Berkshire’s old name – Bearrocscir – first appears in King Alfred the Great’s time in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle of AD40. The name comes from a wood of box trees, called Bearroc (a Celtic word meaning hilly).

building the castle at Windsor. Reading Abbey was founded by Henry I in 1121. King John sealed the Magna Carta, a charter of rights at Runnymede, just over in Surrey, in 1215. Newbury was the site of two historic English Civil War battles: the First Battle of Newbury at Wash Common in 1643 and the Second Battle of Newbury at Speen in 1644. Donnington Castle was reduced to a ruin in the aftermath of the second battle. The castle was so badly damaged during its siege that by 1647, it was already described as ‘ruinous’. Berkshire remained a quiet rural area, with Newbury and Abingdon gaining reputations for cloth. The wealth of John Winchcombe, ‘Jack of Newbury’, in the early Tudor period was legendary and his exploits were commemorated in ballads.

King Alfred’s campaign against the Danes included the Battles of Englefield AD870, Ashdown AD870 and Reading AD871.

Another Battle of Reading took place on in 1688, ending in a victory for forces loyal to William of Orange.

In 1066 William crossed the Thames at Wallingford on his triumphant march from Hastings. He took over many of the estates of the previous royal family and began

The Kennet and Avon canal in the south opened in 1810, giving a modest boost to trade, but the market towns of the shire remained small. Reading’s position on the u p19

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

Opposite page Reading Abbey is a ruined abbey located in the centre of the town; Above Just over the border in neighbouring Surrey at Runnymede, King John sealed the Magna Carta, a charter of rights, in 1215

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HISTORY & HERITAGE

William the Conqueror personally chose the site for Windsor Castle

river however gave it steady prosperity and fast expansion. Huntley & Palmers was founded in the town in 1822 and, during the next 150 years, came to be ‘the most famous biscuit company in the world’. Brunel’s Great Western railway cut through the north of the county in the 1830s by way of the valley of the White Horse, and the Taunton to Reading line, through Hungerford and Newbury, opened in 1847. Reading became the new county town in 1867, taking over from Abingdon.

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The M4 motorway, completed in 1971, bisected the county from Bray to Membury. In 1974, Berkshire’s boundaries changed under the Local Government Act 1972. Berkshire gained Slough and Eton from Buckinghamshire, but lost Abingdon, Faringdon, Wantage, Didcot and Wallingford to Oxfordshire. In 1998, Berkshire lost its central administration altogether and was replaced by six unitary authorities: Reading, Wokingham, Slough, Bracknell Forest, Windsor and Maidenhead, and West Berkshire (Newbury). A flag for the historic county of Berkshire was registered with the Flag Institute in 2017.

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WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

Great days out for all With hidden gems, iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions, Berkshire truly has something for everyone

ou’ll always find plenty to occupy your time in the Royal County of Berkshire, so named for its connections with the Royal Family. So why not start in Windsor, the Queen’s second home? After London, it is the UK’s most popular tourist attraction, largely due its jewel in the crown, Windsor Castle. Standing majestically above the town on a hill, the impressive landmark was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, and

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“Standing majestically above the town on a hill, this impressive landmark was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, and has since been the home of 39 monarchs”

has since been the home of 39 monarchs. It’s the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and is the Queen’s favourite weekend home – check which flag is flying from the Round Tower; if it’s the Royal Standard then the Queen will be in when you visit! The castle is open all year round, even when the Queen is in residence, but as it’s a working palace it closes for special private events and functions so always check in advance. When planning your own visit, try and

DAYS OUT

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catch the traditional Changing of the Guards. The ceremony starts at 11am on alternate days from August to March and daily during April, May, June and July (apart from Sundays). LAVISH FURNISHINGS & TREASURES Inside, the castle highlights include the lavish furnishings and treasures from the Royal Collection in the State Apartments; Queen Mary’s Doll House – the largest and most intricate in the world; and the Waterloo Chamber, built to celebrate the victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Don’t miss the St George’s Chapel which houses the tombs of ten sovereigns including Henry VIII. The chapel is open Monday to

Above Situated in Windsor Great Park, The Long Walk is a three-mile paved avenue of trees that leads up to the magnificent Windsor Castle

Saturday. Running south of the castle into the magnificent Great Park is The Long Walk, a three-mile paved avenue of trees ending at the Copper Horse statue and offering an iconic view of Windsor. The park itself is a real joy where you’ll find dog walkers, picnickers, roller-bladers and the odd deer having a high old time. Situated in the Great Park is the Savill Garden, 35 acres of beautifully-designed interconnected gardens and woodland. The gardens are free to visit in December. u p23

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

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“Keep wandering and you’ll discover the woodland shores of Virginia Water where you can enjoy impressive views of its lake and cascading waterfall – look out for the 100 ft Totem Pole!”

Keep wandering and you’ll discover the woodland shores of Virginia Water, in nearby Surrey, where you can enjoy impressive views of its lake and cascading waterfall – look out for the 100 ft Totem Pole too! Nearby is historic Runnymede, also in Surrey, where the Magna Carta was signed. If all that walking sounds too much, there’s various forms of transport at your disposal; hire a horse and carriage through the Great Park, hop aboard an open top bus tour, or push the boat out, literally, by taking a passenger boat ride (French Brothers) or hiring a rowing or motor boat or even a guided kayak tour. But for the most fun jump on board an amphibious vehicle with Windsor Duck Tours which incorporates both a road tour and ‘splashdown’ in the Thames.

Above In nearby Surrey you can enjoy impressive views of Virginia Water’s lake and cascading waterfall; Below Windsor Duck Tours incorporates both a road tour and ‘splashdown’ in the River Thames

Sundays) and is a space with lots of memorabilia from school days past, including a recreation of an Edwardian boy’s room. Also visit the College’s Natural History Museum, which houses 15,000 specimens, and is open to the public every Sunday, 2.30pm-5pm. Over in Eton Wick is the utterly charming History On Wheels Museum – a unique collection of motors, both military and civilian, militaria from 1900 to the 1950s and artefacts from both the civilian and wartime homefronts. And the vehicle demonstrations don’t stop there – over in nearby Maidenhead you can fly a Spitfire simulator at its Heritage Centre, or, in Slough, get behind the wheel of a racing car simulator at Motion Simulation Room! More vehicles, this time of the farming type, can be found in the Museum of English Rural Life in Reading, which houses a comprehensive collection relating to the history of food, farming and the countryside. Entrance is free. Nearby is Reading Museum, which includes an exact, full replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. The Museum has recently launched the new Story of Reading gallery, which explores life after the creation of Reading Abbey and the development of the modern town. Another fascinating little museum – The Riverside Museum tells the story of the two rivers which meet in Reading; the Kennet and the Thames and features reconstructions of a Victorian printing shop, a bakery, barber’s shop and a gypsy caravan. At the centre of the town lies The Forbury Gardens; a beautiful Victoria garden that houses the historic Reading Abbey – burial place of King Henry I of England. The site has re-opened following a £3m conservation project. u p25

HISTORIC SITES If you’re interested in some historical facts about the town and the local area then visit Windsor and the Royal Borough Museum located in Windsor Guildhall, where Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles were married. Just a fifteen-minute stroll from Windsor Castle is the exclusive school Eton College (where Princes William and Harry were educated). The college recently started official Blue Badge grade tours, but only during summer, and only on a Friday. Tours finish at the museum (which is open on

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“Over in Reading you’ll find Basildon Park – a beautiful Palladian ‘lived in’ mansion which combines elegant 18th-century interiors and 1950s touches, such as the Barbie pink kitchen” Over in Newbury you’ll find more local history, from pre-historic times, at the West Berkshire Museum. Historic houses abound around Newbury. Visit Shaw House, one of the best preserved Elizabethan mansions in England. It is open every weekend and school holidays from February to September. But perhaps the most famous of Newbury’s ‘big houses’ is Highclere Castle, aka TV’s Downton Abbey! The house is usually open during the summer months and on a few weekends throughout the year, but since the success of Downton, pre-booking is advised. Even non-Downton fans will enjoy the opulent state rooms, Egyptian artefacts and the Capability Brown-designed grounds. And no, Carson won’t be there to open the door to you! For another history hit, travel a few miles up the road to Donnington, where you’ll find the remains of Donnington

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Above Basildon Park is an 18th-century house set in 400 acres of historic parkland and gardens

Castle. Only the twin-towered gatehouse of the 14thcentury castle survives. These large defences were built to protect the castle during the English Civil War when it withstood an 18-month siege. Visitors are invited to look around at ‘any reasonable time in daylight hours’. Over in Reading you’ll find Basildon Park – a beautiful Palladian ‘lived in’ mansion which combines elegant 18th-century interiors and 1950s touches, such as the Barbie pink kitchen. MANSIONS & GARDENS Other historic houses and gardens include Englefield House, Reading, a superb Elizabethan mansion; Ashdown House, Lambourn, a Dutch-style 17th-century house with 500 acres of woodland and parkland to explore; and Taplow Court, a Victorian mansion, now a Buddhist study centre but open for special heritage days throughout the year. Right on Berkshire’s borders are two of the National Trust’s treasures: Greys Court in Henley on Thames, with its remarkable walled gardens; and glorious Cliveden in Taplow, where you can hide in the maze, wander through the formal gardens and enjoy a superb cream tea with views across the parterre. And so to the kiddiwinks. There’s tons for families u p27

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

At Tally Ho Stables we specialise in taking groups of all abilities for gentle rides and exciting hacks through the beautiful Windsor Great Park. Ri The routes include the Deer Park, with its wide grassland trails, where you will see stunning views of Windsor Castle.

des available Tuesday-Sunday

Individual rides, Groups or Private parties welcome. (minimum age 12yrs old for party bookings). • Routes for every ability and skill level • Fully insured and licensed with qualified Ride Leaders • Equipment (and horses!) provided • Stunning forest and Deer Park surroundings • Approved by the BHS (British Horse Society) • BET training courses and exams “My friends organised a ride with Tally Ho as part of my hen do. The team was helpful and friendly right from the start – they coped with a group of real mixed abilities and made sure we felt safe and had fun. The horses were lovely and Windsor Great Park is just an amazing place to ride – in fact I enjoyed it so much I’ve ended up as a regular customer.”

T. 01784 479159 or 07743 253 373 E. info@tallyhostables.co.uk Tally Ho Stables at Dell Park Farm Tally Ho Stables, Dell Park Farm, Bishopsgate Road, Englefield Green, Surrey, TW20 0XT

Welcome to Canoe and Kayak Adventures of Berkshire We specialise in guided tours of the River Thames in Berkshire using open Canadian canoes. We also hire out our canoes and single and double kayaks and SUP boards. We also love to assist you in camping trips, team building events, charity events along the whole of the river and hen and birthday parties. See our website for more details. 07585 907734

info@canoeandkayaktours.com

www.canoeandkayakadventures.co.uk

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DAYS OUT

“With more than 55 rides, younger children (and their parents!) will love getting their driver’s licence, coming face to face with a shark and feeling like giants as they wander through Miniland”

©GO APE; LEGOLAND

here, in fine weather or poor. Legoland Resort Windsor is non-negotiable. With more than 55 rides, younger children (and their parents!) will love getting their driver’s licence, coming face to face with a shark and feeling like giants as they wander through Miniland. New attractions include the spooky Haunted House Monster Party and the Duplo Dream Coaster, suitable for kids under three years old. For older thrill-seekers, both Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures are just a short drive away. If that’s not daring enough, test out your Sherlock skills at one of the various escape rooms in Reading, try Station X at Time Trap Escape Rooms to help reveal the spy operating undercover at Bletchley Park or use your ninja skills at Liquid Leisure aqua park in Datchet, near Windsor. Here you can compete in ninja warrior floating obstacle races, wakeboard or ride a banana boat. Something similar can be found at Lagoona Park in Reading, where you can also hire jet bikes and dirt buggies. AQUATIC ADVENTURES More watery fun can be found at Coral Reef pool in Bracknell, which has undergone a £13m refurbishment to include five ‘customisable water slides’. Also in Bracknell is an excellent Ski Slope and Ice Rink, as well as the superb Look Out Discovery Centre, a hands-on science and discovery centre aimed at primary school aged children. The Look Out is based at the edge of Swinley Forest – beautiful woodland stretching more than 2,600 acres. Biking, horse riding, segwaying and swinging through the trees on a series of ropes with Go Ape all take place in the forest. Country parks offer something for all ages and Berks boasts some of the best. Dinton Pastures is an oasis of woodland, meadows and lakes, with a superb free play area for children. u p29 Above left With more than 55 rides and attractions, Legoland is the perfect destination for a fun family day out; Left Swinley Forest is home to Go Ape which has three different high ropes adventures

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

WEST BERKSHIRE BREWERY

TUES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUN I 10AM-11PM MON I 10AM-6PM (Kitchen Closed) SHOP OPEN DAILY 10AM-6PM

DAYS OUT

Left The Living Rainforest is an indoor greenhouse home to 650 tropical plants and animals including Goeldi’s monkeys and carpet pythons

“If a rainforest isn’t something you’d expect to find in Berkshire, you’d be wrong. The Living Rainforest in Thatcham is an indoor greenhouse, home to 650 tropical plants and animals”

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Also near Reading is Wellington Country Park which offers ‘The Biggest Outdoor Play in Berkshire’. It offers lots for little ones including miniature railway, mini golf, petting zoo and heaps of play equipment. Even industrial Slough has its own little oasis in the form of Hershel Park nature reserve, which was recently given a massive spruce up and returned to its former Victorian glory. ANIMAL LOVERS For animal lovers, there’s parks galore: greet a goat at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park in Headley; meet a meerkat at Beale Park in Pangbourne; love a llama at Bucklebury Farm, Reading; and ogle an owl at the Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre in Twyford. If a rainforest isn’t something you’d expect to find in Berkshire, you’d be wrong. The Living Rainforest in Thatcham is an indoor greenhouse home to 650 tropical plants and animals. Also in Thatcham you’ll find the Nature Discovery Centre, which is packed full of interactive wildlife and natural history displays. For those of you who prefer your animals with a jockey

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on top, why not enjoy the thrill of the chase with horse racing at Newbury Racecourse, Ascot Racecourse and Royal Windsor Racecourse? If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. There’s hundreds of stunning walks at every turn, taking in woodland, rivers and pretty villages. Two trails are of note: the Thames Path Trail, and The Ridgeway, both National Trails. The Thames Path Trail is a long-distance walking trail, following the River Thames for 184 miles from the Cotswolds to London. The trail meanders through many of Berkshire’s prettiest spots. The Ridgeway follows a route used since prehistoric times. The trail passes through the Berkshire Downs, a stunning line of hills offering wide, open views of rolling chalk downland – look out for the white horse cut into the chalk. But if it’s pure relaxation you’re after, look at spending the day at one of the county’s spas – try Nirvana Spa in Wokingham or The Thames Lido, Reading, which attracts people from miles around.

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

Only here for the weekend? Tight for time? Here are some ideas for a memorable short break to Berkshire

WEEKENDER

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“Browse around the pedestrianised areas of Windsor Yards and Windsor Royal Shopping, and if you’ve got time watch The Changing of the Guard outside the castle”

DAY ONE Start the day off bright and early with a hearty breakfast from the extensive menu in Monty’s Cafe in Windsor – look to the castle, if the flag is up, the Queen is in! For a history hit, take a self-guided tour of Windsor Castle – give yourself around three hours to fully appreciate the sumptuous surroundings and wonderful artworks inside. Make sure to take in St George’s Chapel – it’s one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in England and the burial pace of ten monarchs, including Henry VIII. Alternatively, enjoy a browse around the town centre and the pedestrianised areas of Windsor Yards and Windsor Royal Shopping, and if you’ve time watch The Changing of the Guard outside the castle. Have lunch at in one of the many restaurants or pubs in Windsor – The Two Brewers is a real town favourite; or hop over the bridge into Eton where you’ll find the excellent Gilbeys. Explore the rest of Windsor and Eton with the Original Tour open top bus tour (operates March to October). The tour takes around 45 minutes but is hop on, hop off. You could also take a 40-minute boat ride on the River Thames with French Brothers. If you’re feeling fit, walk through Windsor’s Great Park, starting at the iconic Long Walk, past the The Copper Horse statue on towards the beautiful Savill Garden. With over 35 acres of trees and shrubbery, ponds and flowers, the garden is an incredible visit at any time of year. Grab afternoon tea in Benugo’s in the garden’s visitor centre (the Savill Building) before heading back to Windsor.

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Relax at the end of a busy day with a spot of souvenir shopping. Extend your trip into the evening with dinner at one of the many town centre restaurants, book to see a production at the Theatre Royal or, if you’ve got an ounce of energy left, throw some shapes at one of the town’s many nightclubs.

Opposite page, clockwise from top Enjoy a stroll down the iconic Long Walk through Windsor’s Great Park; The Thames Path Trail offers 184 miles of countryside loveliness; Legoland is a must if you have kids in tow; Above right Visitors can watch The Changing of the Guard outside Windsor Castle

DAY TWO A non-negotiable stop-off if you’ve got the kids in tow is Legoland. This will take all day! As an alternative, after breakfast, why not see how far you can get following The Thames Path Trail – it’s 184 miles of countryside loveliness. A big lunch will definitely be calling after that – try the Roux family’s Waterside Inn in Bray, or their v-enture Skindles on the Thames in Maidenhead, or further along the Thames, the French Horn in Sonning. Museum lovers should head to Reading for the charming Museum of English Rural Life; stately home lovers must see Basildon Park; and sports lovers can catch a game at the Madjeski Stadium. For dinner dine on Michelin stars at L’Ortolan in Shinfield, or even the eye-wateringly expensive Fat Duck in Bray, or catch a movie, show or music act at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead. If you prefer to visit West Berkshire, simply swap your walk for the Ridgeway Trail; your lunch for the Dew Pond in Old Burghclere; your stately home for Highclere (Downton) Castle; your sport for Newbury Racecourse and your Michelin star dinner for The Blackbird in Bagnor.

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

SHOPPING

Shopping with style… Shopaholics will love Berkshire for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, high street staples and quirky independents

erkshire is a fabulous place for shopping, whether you like a modern mall or scouring through independents for quirky buys. Broadly speaking there are three major towns for shopaholics: Reading, Windsor and Newbury, with Bracknell snapping at their heels with its new centre. ©HACOHOB/HEDGEHOG94/THINK B/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

READING Most people heading to Reading will go straight to its large indoor shopping mall, The Oracle, set on the banks of the River Kennet. Completed in May 2000 (on the site of a 17th-century workhouse of the same name), the centre breathed much-needed life into the town, and increased Reading’s retail footage by one-third. It now contains more than 80 stylish stores including Apple, House of Fraser and Debenhams. There are also 22 restaurants, cafes and bars, from Wagamama to Côte

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Brasserie, along the riverside, many offering an al fresco experience, and an 11-screen Vue cinema. The town’s other shopping centre, Broad Street Mall, isn’t quite as grand as its neighbour, but features popular stores TK Maxx, Wilko and number of eateries, including the recently opened US import Taco Bell. Broad Street is the town’s major shopping street. It is pedestrianised and has a huge John Lewis, M&S and Primark, with Next, Gap, Boots, Cath Kidston and Fat Face among the major brands all in the town centre. In the midst of the big brand names, there are some beloved independent gems. Harris Arcade is a treasure-box where you’ll find many of them situated. Wander its curved passageway and you’ll discover everything from vintage fashions, toys and collectibles to a tobacconist, cheese specialist, tailor, milliner, tattooist, record shop and more. Among the indie treasures here you’ll u p35

Pictured In Berkshire there are three major towns to satisfy shopaholics: Reading, Windsor and Newbury

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

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SHOPPING

find Georgina’s Vintage Couture, offering beautiful vintage clothing and accessories; and Reading Collectors Centre, two separate units selling antiques and memorabilia. The Sound Machine buys and sells classic vinyl albums and CDs; while Crunch Comics stocks hundreds of back-issue comic books, graphic novels, collectibles and T-shirts. Adrienne Henry Millinery creates stunning bespoke hats and head pieces and also offers fun hat-making workshops; and a shop creating a stink for all the right reasons is The Grumpy Goat, purveyor of craft beer, real ale, cheese, mead and small batch spirits. Elsewhere among the independents you can buy unique art from the brilliantly named But is it Art? and limited editions from the Lemon Grove Gallery and board, card and miniature games, puzzles and more from Eclectic Games. Reading’s premier jewellery store is Jacobs The Jewellers. The independent business has been operating for 65 years and has an amazing variety of stunning pieces to suit all budgets. Shoppers are guaranteed to receive exceptional and knowledgeable service from this awardwinning jewellers. For markets, head to the street market held in Hosier Street, or check out the twice weekly street food markets – Wednesday and Friday in Market Place. WINDSOR & ETON The Queen’s second home is a royally grand place to shop! With the castle quite literally ruling over the town, this elegant and relatively compact area contains a wealth of shopping opportunities, from hand-made items and

Above Situated in what was once a Victorian railway station, Windsor Royal Station retains many of its original features and offers a unique and historical shopping experience

vintage gems to ball-worthy gowns and upmarket fashion. The main shopping areas are Peascod Street, Windsor Royal Station/King Edward Court (all pedestrianised), the High Street, Thames Street and Eton High Street. For upmarket fashion, head for Windsor Royal Station. It is located opposite Windsor Castle in the Grade 2-listed Victorian railway station, where many of the original features remain, including Jubilee Arch, the cobbled stones and Queen Victoria’s waiting room. Many big fashion names can be found here, including Hobbs, Jigsaw and Jo Malone. Art lovers will be intrigued by Artique – an art gallery with a consultancy service. Havana House Cigar Shop situated in the Windsor Royal Shopping centre is a rare find – a traditional tobacconist on the site of the old station master’s office built in 1897 and still features some of the original furnishings. The ceiling features a replica of the Sistine Chapel – but with a cigar twist. The shop has a wide variety of Cuban cigars and rare whisky. There’s also a wide range of continental-style restaurants, cafes, bars and an art and craft market open seven days a week. From Windsor Royal Shopping, steps lead down to Windsor Yards, a pedestrian-friendly collection of good high-street stores including Daniels of Windsor department store, here you’ll also find independent familyrun jewellers Anthony Paul, The White Company, Zara and Cotswold Outdoor. Peascod Street, the car-free road that runs down the hill directly opposite Windsor Castle, has more high street brands including M&S, Seasalt, Monsoon, as well as the excellent store Vintage & Retro, which sells clothing u p37

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

At ECCO, we are proud of our Scandinavian heritage, combining style and comfort in our extensive range of footwear and accessories. Our Newbury and Windsor stores stock a wide range of ladies and mens shoes as well as leather handbags and small leather goods.

ECCO Newbury G10 Parkway Shopping Centre, Newbury RG14 1AY Tel: 01635 33746

ECCO Windsor 134 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DS Tel: 01753 867292

SHOPPING

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“Along the High Street, Thames Street and Windsor Guildhall, shops enjoy a scenic location beneath the castle. Here you’ll find specialist shops selling jewellery and woollens, teddies and all kinds of royal regalia in the form of souvenirs” and all sorts to help fund Thames Hospice. Along the High Street, Thames Street and Windsor Guildhall shops enjoy a scenic location beneath the castle. Here you’ll find specialist shops selling jewellery and woollens, teddies and all kinds of royal regalia in the form of souvenirs. And for royalists, the castle shop offers homeware, books, china, clothing, toys and jewellery inspired by the royal palaces and the works of art in the Royal Collection. Flaxman Fine Jewellery is a treasuretrove of antique and modern jewellery including many contemporary signed pieces and exclusive engagement rings. It specialises in pieces dating from the Georgian period right through to the present day. Stroll over the bridge into Eton High Street, leading towards the famous Eton College – you can’t miss the pupils in their chalk-stripe trousers, tailcoats and wing-collared shirts. It’s a bit Dickensian here, especially at Christmas time – look out for the quintessential gentlemen’s outfitters New & Lingwood, founded in 1865 to cater for the sartorial

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Above left Church Street in Windsor has an abundance of souvenir shops for you to remember your visit to this regal town

needs of Eton College pupils and still occupying the same site on Eton High Street all these years later! Asides from the school, Eton is renowned for its art and antique shops and appealing small family businesses, including jewellers, bookshops and gift shops. On the mile-long strip of shops between the Thames and Eton College you can browse for original paintings, prints and photography, haute couture and leather goods. Highlights include contemporary art at the Barker Gallery; the wonderfully dusty Eton Antique Bookshop; and the Eton College gift shop, which is perfect for those with a hankering to pass themselves off as a sporty Old Etonian, with T-shirts, caps, boaters and obligatory teddy bears and tea towels. Gardeners will be drawn to The Savill Building, the elegant gateway to The Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park. There you’ll find plants for sale lovingly nurtured in The Savill Garden itself, as well as gourmet food, gifts, books and maps, bespoke stationery and Windsor Great Park preserves. MAIDENHEAD Neighbouring Maidenhead is in somewhat of a flux at the moment. Once a popular shopping destination, recent years have seen some of its bigger stores close down, leaving big gaps in the high street and the Nicholsons Centre mall. The town is now undergoing a multi-million pound regeneration project that will see the waterway restored through the centre bringing it with renewed retail and entertainment opportunities. At the same time, the new Elizabeth Line, aka Crossrail, linking Reading with East London, is scheduled to u p40

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DAVID RODGER SHARP

T: 01491 411 262

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E: info@rodgersharp.co.uk

8A DUKE STREET | HENLEY-ON-THAMES | OXFORDSHIRE | RG9 1UP

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open in 2021 and it is predicted that local businesses will see a big increase in footfall. That’s not to say that good shopping can’t be had in the town – high street chains Monsoon, M&S, H&M, Clarks and Topshop are among the shops here, as well as some lovely independent shops, such as the Craft Coop, which sells locally-made gifts, jewellery and homewares. In nearby Holyport you’ll find a terrific gifts and homeware shop, Two for Joy. And the Bishops Centre in Taplow has a handy Nike discount store, Mountain Warehouse and HomeSense. SLOUGH Nearby Slough has also suffered a bit from being so close to its elite neighbours Windsor and London – but that is set to change with a multi-million pound regeneration project, which will see the high street transformed with new shops, apartments and two new train links – Crossrail and the proposed Western Rail Access to Heathrow. The town’s current shopping centre – The Queensmere Observatory – is somewhat tired, but does house a variety of high street brands including Primark and TK Maxx. As part of the town’s regeneration it is set to be demolished and replaced with something altogether more swanky by 2021. If you’re looking to buy a new car, however, then Slough is your place – dealerships for both old and used motors line the A4 into Slough central. COOKHAM East Berkshire’s towns and villages offer a selection of independent shops. Of note is pretty Cookham, home of the Stanley Spencer Gallery, where you can buy souvenirs. The village has a small selection of shops, including an outstanding wine merchant, Old Butchers Wine Cellar, and a gorgeous independent bookshop, The Little Bookshop. ASCOT & SUNNINGDALE Need some bling? Head to Ascot and Sunningdale, which seem to excel at posh frocks and jewels. Anyone would think there was a world-class racecourse nearby… talking of which, you’ll find racing related trinkets and luxury British brands on sale at the Ascot Racecourse shop. Brands include T.M.Lewin, Milly Green, Christys and Karen Millen. Away from the races you can find something special at Tom French, the exclusive jewellers where one-off pieces are regularly commissioned by locals. Men can kit themselves out in a range of designer threads at Mewes menswear in Sunningdale, while over in Sunninghill, savvy shoppers will make a bee-line for the Stock Exchange or Timpanys, where you’ll find row upon row of row of nearly-new designer wear. WARGRAVE We all love chocolate right? Then make like Charlie and head for Rosie’s Chocolate Factory, a master chocolatier which hosts chocolate making workshops. The staff are so talented they take your favourite flavours and make bespoke chocolates before your eyes! Oompa-loompa!

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BRACKNELL Bracknell upped its game massively in the shopping game in 2017, when The Lexicon opened for business. In one of the largest urban regeneration schemes in the UK, the new town centre was transformed over two years at a cost of £240 million. It now includes a new, state-of-the-art shopping centre – the Lexicon – which features 70 shops and restaurants. Major stores include Fenwick, Boots, H&M, Next and Primark. A super-fun shop is Tinkers Gifts, which utilises Lego people to make personalised mini figures masterpieces. A must, of course. WOKINGHAM This market town is in the process of undergoing a £12-million pound overhaul. When completed, the town planners have no wish to compete with Bracknell or Reading, but instead wish to attract independent shops and eateries. NEWBURY The western side of Berkshire isn’t so heavily populated, and the biggest shopping area can be found in Newbury, at the Parkway. This is an open street development in the

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SHOPPING

heart of the town which features more than 50 shops. There’s good mix of well-known high street names (Pandora, Jigsaw, Mint Velvet...) and local independents in the town, including the award-winning Camp Hopson department store and, winner of Best Boutique in Berkshire award from Muddy Stilettos, B The Lifestyle Shop, which sells an excellent selection of simple, design-led clothes. It also operates one-off workshops, such as line drawing and arm knitting! If you’re passing through western Berkshire, you’ll notice an array of great farm shops – the perfect place to pick up locally-made preserves, cheeses, meats and drinks. Try Saddleback Farm Shop in Brightwalton or Cobbs Farm Shop in Hungerford. Hungerford itself is a lovely market town, ideal for antiques hunting – try Hungerford Arcade Antiques and Below Stairs of Hungerford Collectables, which houses more than 100 antiques dealers under one roof, or, which specialises in items from the 19th and early 20th century. Also Antique Jewellery Boutique for a unique piece. Chain stores are in short supply here, meaning there are some great independent shops – of note is GrapeSmith independent wine shop; White Coco for quirky women’s fashion; Angela Knight Lingerie; and

“If you’re passing through western Berkshire, you’ll notice an array of farm shops – the perfect place to pick up locally-made preserves, cheeses, meats and drinks. Try Saddleback Farm Shop in Brightwalton or Cobbs Farm Shop in Hungerford” Mojo and McCoy for great denim and unique labels. To smell unique, head over to Beenham and create your own perfume at Uncommon Scents’ perfume studio. You’ll learn all about the ingredients (designed by a master perfumer) and how to blend them. SURROUNDING AREAS It’s worth mentioning that there are some great retail opportunities just over Berkshire’s border. Oxfordshire’s Henley-on-Thames is a stunning riverside town in which you can spend the whole day browsing the upmarket shops and independent boutiques. Likewise Marlow in Buckinghamshire. And for designer bargains, Bicester Village is just a short car ride away. Happy shopping!

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

EATING OUT

Restaurants and cafes you just have to try! From ramen to risotto and vegan to steakhouse, every type of food lover is catered for here

erkshire is the perfect place for foodies, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to amazing gastropubs and world cuisine. All tastes and budgets are catered for – here’s some of the best...

©ING IMAGE; JOSE LUIS LOPEZ DE ZUBIRIA/THE FAT DUCK

BRAY Let’s start with brilliant Bray, a foodie haven, which boasts not one, but two world-famous restaurants. Both have earned three Michelin stars – the highest award given for chefs at the peak of their profession. First is Michel Roux’s Waterside Inn – a ‘leading light in the UK’s gastronomic constellation since it first opened in 1972’. This famous Thames-sider (a favourite of the Royal Family) is now run by Alain Roux, with father Michel still sometimes popping up in the dining room. The location is ‘unsurpassable on a warm evening in summer’; when a meal typically starts off with a glass of Champagne on the terrace. The meal itself takes place in a plush conservatory dining room overlooking the

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

river. The French menus use luxury ingredients in sophisticated combinations. However, a more affordable Roux experience can be had in Maidenhead, where Roux at Skindles has opened. Also on the riverside, this restaurant is a ‘relaxed bistro-style to suit every pocket’. On the menu you’ll find classic French dishes such as fish soup bouillabaisse style, coq au vin and warm chocolate fondant. Back in Bray is another culinary behemoth. Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck bills (geddit?) itself as ‘a fairytale journey back to childhood’ – the team actually call you in advance of your booking to ask about your memories! The resulting cuisine is ‘sheer genius, with dishes, planned to the minutest item, executed to the highest standard, and with a focus on flavour sensations that are at once familiar yet often completely unique’. Yummy! There’s the obvious catch – a meal for two with wine at what can easily be around £1,000! That’s quackers... If that’s a bit high, waddle over to Heston’s other, u p44

Above The Fat Duck in Bray has built a reputation on dishes executed to the highest standard and with a focus on flavour sensations that are often completely unique

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EATING OUT

©CHRISTINE SIRACUSA/UNSPLASH; KZENON/NATALIIA PYZHOVA/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

more affordable, eateries, also in Bray, The Crown – a charmingly restored 16th-century building with a cosy atmosphere serving robust British dishes, or The Hind’s Head – a quintessentially English inn which serves time-honoured British dishes with Heston Blumenthal’s creative touch. Also in Bray you’ll find Caldesi in Campagna – sister of celebrity chef Giancarlo Caldesi’s famous Café Caldesi in London. It is a chic restaurant with a cosy conservatory and a lovely covered terrace – complete with a wood-fired oven. Flavoursome Italian dishes feature Tuscan and Sicilian specialities, such as sea bass ravioli with lemon and butter sauce. MAIDENHEAD With its regeneration work ongoing, Maidenhead might not be the most attractive town at the moment, but it’s undoubtedly an affluent area, which its restaurants reflect. There’s a few decently-priced eateries in the town – try the recently opened Strawberry Café, or Coppa Club (also in Windsor) which is great for a brunch or burger; Bistro Story is an excellent Polish restaurant; and Miyazaki offers very good Japanese dishes. Lemon Grass, Emperor of India and Ghandis are outstanding Indian restaurants. Just outside Maidenhead is The Royal Oak, Paley Street, owned by Sir Michael Parkinson and son Nick. Elegant, stylish and nostalgic, this is gastropub food at its best. Although the restaurant lost chef Craig Johnston after he won Masterchef: The Professionals, and later in the year lost its Michelin star (of which it is confident of winning back), the pub still serves excellent food. On the menu at the moment is clementine parfait with fig sorbet – yummo! This justifiably puts The Royal Oak on this year’s (2019) Top 50 Gastropubs list – it comes in at number 26 – along with two other just-oustide-Maidenhead eateries – The Crown in Burchetts Green (number 13) and The Beehive (number eight) in White Waltham. The Beehive is helmed by Heston Blumenthal’s former head chef, Dominic Chapman – former contestant on BBC 2’s Great British Menu. His mantra of ‘feed you and make you happy’ is in every dish the kitchen creates, such as braised venison meatballs, spaghetti, tomato fondue and

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garlic and cime di rapa. Best of all, those who eat at the pub will find most mains cost less than £20. Michelin-starred The Crown is a bar with an intimate dining area where you can treat your taste buds to the finest mixed French and British cuisine. Its menu is an ever-changing reflection of the seasons. Owner and chef Simon Bonwick says: “Whatever makes me laugh and whatever makes me happy is what you’ll find on the menu”. Set across seven acres, the restored Monkey Island Estate in Bray boasts both a striking Pavilion and Temple building surrounded by country gardens with views of the River Thames. The culinary excellence of Monkey Island Estate is part of perfect foodie pilgrimage, as Bray is the only village in the world that lays claim to three Michelinstarred restaurants and the village has long been a destination for gastronomic-enthusiasts. Monkey Island has also made its mark on the area with Monkey Island Brasserie, a sophisticated yet casual brasserie, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner on the river. COOKHAM & BURNHAM In the pretty riverside village of Cookham you will find Malik’s, reputed to be Heston Blumenthal’s favourite Indian restaurant (there’s also one in nearby Marlow u p49

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Find your closest Bill’s Restaurant We have four beautiful restaurants across Berkshire serving healthy & indulgent seasonal food. To view our menu, opening times & more details visit bills-website.co.uk

Get in touch! Bill’s Newbury T: 01635 528511 E: newbury@bills-email.co.uk Bill’s Bracknell T: 01344 868987 E: bracknell@bills-email.co.uk Bill’s Reading T: 01189 391365 E: reading@bills-email.co.uk Bill’s Windsor T: 01753 864586 E: windsor@bills-email.co.uk

Berkshire Bill’s Windsor Bill’s Reading Bill’s Newbury

All day & into the night.

Bill’s Bracknell

LUNCH SET MENU TWO COURSES FOR £18.50 AVA I L A B L E M O N DAY TO F R I DAY FROM 12PM – 5PM

The Shurlock Inn, The Street, Shurlock Row, Reading RG10 0PS + 44 (0)118 934 9094

hello@theshurlockinn.co.uk @theshurlockinnberkshire theshurlockinn.co.uk

LUNCH SET MENU TWO COURSES FOR £17.50 AVA I L A B L E M O N DAY TO F R I DAY FROM 12PM – 5PM

The Corn Stores, 10 Forbury Road, Reading, RG1 1SB

+ 44 (0)118 324 6768

hello@thecornstoresreading.co.uk @thecornstoresreading thecornstoresreading.co.uk

EATING OUT

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“If pizza and pasta are on your mind, Sebastian’s Italian, located in a little alley, is bursting with authentic Italian dishes. Alternatively, Enzo’s offers authentic Italian cuisine with pizza cooked in their wood-fired oven” and Gerrards Cross). Also in Cookham is the White Oak, recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand which champions good food at a reasonable price. The menu is always full of flavour and the set menu is great value. In nearby Burnham, on the way to Slough, you’ll find Tummies, a family favourite which is a great spot for lunch – the children’s drawings done at the table and displayed on the wall are a nice touch. Still in Burnham don’t miss the adorable Hitcham Ice Cream and Farm Shop, where in the summer you can sit in the garden and enjoy a delicious ice cream – often quite unusually flavoured – produced using fresh milk from the Ayrshire cows, which you will see roaming around nearby fields on the farm. WINDSOR & ETON If she ever gets bored of Coronation Chicken, the Queen would do well to venture out into the centre of Windsor where every taste is catered for, from Thai to Moroccan, South American to Asian and French to Indian. Of note is The Two Brewers – a tiny pub near the Long Walk offering

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outstanding grub; the Giggling Squid for very decent and good-value Thai tapas; and the glamorous Mango Lounge for contemporary Indian food. For a decent steak served with vine tomatoes, watercress and a choice of triple-cooked chips, visit Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. If pizza and pasta are on your mind, Sebastian’s Italian, located in a little alley, is bursting with authentic Italian dishes. Alternatively, Enzo’s offers authentic Italian cuisine with pizza cooked in their wood-fired oven. For Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine, try Meimo with its buzzing atmosphere and beautiful décor; Al Fassia for authentic Moroccan cuisine including a range of tangine specialities; or popular Marmara with a delightful mixed meze sharing platter on the menu. Everyone is raving about Oxford Blue right now. It has been a pub for more than 100 years and, after being acquired in 2015 by chef proprietor, Steven Ellis, it now offers traditional English food with a sophisticated touch. On the menu right now is Windsor Great Park red deer with wild mushrooms, braised neck croquette and potato and truffle terrine, or tiramisu soufflé. Just outside Windsor in Oakley Green is The Greene Oak – a contemporary gastropub with a daily changing menu. Its modern, open-plan bar has a laid-back feel and its large terrace is a real suntrap. Menus mix pub classics – hearty soups, burgers, rib-eye steak– with more interesting dishes – Torbay hake, Devonshire crab, sea vegetable and barley risotto. Originally an old butcher’s shop, Gilbeys in Eton is a model neighbourhood bistro with a cosy front eating u p51

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

As one of the oldest Coaching Inns in the world, The Olde Bell is a unique establishment that has captured the essence of English hospitality. Dating back to 1135, our Grade II listed building is definitely worth a visit when you’re in the area. Afternoon Teas | Summer Kitchen BBQ Weekends | Sunday Lunch Gorgeous Gardens | Stunning Wedding Venue The Olde Bell | High Street | Hurley | SL6 5LX oldebellreception@coachinginn.co.uk 01628 825881 www.theoldebell.co.uk

The Swan Inn The Swan Inn has beautiful gardens including a bridged stream meandering through it, with outside dining for up to 250.

Located in the beautiful Market Place of Newbury, we’re proud to serve up delicious fresh food and expertly crafted drinks every day of the week, as well as luxury accommodation that has been stylishly designed with home from home touches; ideal for a mid-week pit stop or a weekend getaway.

This historic building is a 16th-century pub/restaurant offering a traditional, casual drinking and dining experience, serving a superb range of classic cask ales and fresh and locally-sourced home-made British food. Swan Inn, Newtown, Newbury RG20 9BH t. 01635 40313 e. info@swannewbury.co.uk

www.swannewbury.co.uk

No. 8 MARKET PLACE, NEWBURY, RG14 5BD 01635 231 053 • INFO@THEELEPHANTATTHEMARKET.COM THEELEPHANTATTHEMARKET.COM THEELEPHANTATTHEMARKET

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EATING OUT

area and conservatory at the back, often filled with Etonians and their parents. The lively menu might take in rosemary and star anise-braised duck leg, spiced red cabbage, roasted garlic and parsnip mashed potato and Gilbey’s famous lemon tart. The Gilbey family are also wine importers, so expect plenty of the good stuff. ASCOT & SUNNINGDALE Over in Ascot you’ll find Bluebells. Its striking dark green interior with glitzy rose gold panelling and distinctive tiling sets this elegant restaurant apart. Menus offer an appealing range of beautifully-presented European dishes. Sit overlooking the fire pit or in the airy conservatory. Nearby Coworth Park has a location to die for – 240 acres of lawns, meadows and woodland surrounding a quirkily restored Georgian manor. At its heart is its special-occasion dining room done out in gobsmacking autumnal shades with orange leather, mirrored copper walls, gold-leaf sculptures and a striking copper oak leaf chandelier. Head chef Adam Smith’s technically-skilled cooking has earned him a Michelin star. Steep prices go with the territory, although all-inclusive ‘Best of British’ fixed-price menus are good value given the surroundings.

READING & HURLEY Buzzing Reading could have a guide to itself with all the fantastic places to eat and drink it offers. There lots of pleasant chain restaurants in town to eat by the water, including YO! Sushi, Wagamama and Bills, which has just had a major makeover. New to the riverside is Lemoni, serving high-quality Greek food. Another newbie inside the Oracle shopping centre is Buenasado, an Argentinian steakhouse. American favourite Taco Bell has just opened in Reading’s other shopping centre, Broad Street Mall. Over at Reading u p53

Below The Newbury is regularly featured in the Michelin guide

NEWBURY The Newbury, with its stunning, rustic chic decor offers a British menu with a twist which has seen it feature in the Michelin guide regularly. There is so much to choose from

on the extensive wine menu, alongside a choice of fine whiskey and gin, which is no surprise given The Newbury is home to Newbury’s first gin distillery where you can enjoy gin tasting, as well as creating your own bespoke gin. Within Newbury town centre there’s also a great selection of dining options, with the likes of Henry & Joe’s for modern, British cuisine in a cosy bistro setting; Mio Fiore for authentic Italian; Mrs B’s Kitchen Café for wholesome and home-cooked breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea; The Vineyard at Stockcross Hotel for fine dining; Chilis for excellent Indian food; Arigato for sublime sushi and the Elephant at the Market gastropub. And if it is great burgers you’re after, there is no better option than 7bone Burger with branches in Newbury and Reading.

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

The French Horn, Sonning. Quality. A continuing commitment to wonderful food and wine.

0118 969 2204

www.thefrenchhorn.co.uk

EATING OUT

Town Hall you’ll find recently opened Pantry Café & Kitchen, a relaxed place to meet and eat with a vibrant menu. For an intimate chain experience, the Bel & The Dragon (also in Windsor and Cookham) is well worth a visit. With character in spades, visitors can enjoy low-beamed ceilings, roaring open fires next to cosy nooks and modern British classics on the menu. The Shurlock Inn, a charming 17th-century country pub, is another great spot to unwind in Reading, attracting many plaudits from locals and visitors alike for its great food, fine wine, real ale and a warm welcome. The team uses fresh, local produce to create dishes and drinks that showcase British farmers, fishermen, winemakers, distillers and cheesemakers. Right near the M4’s Reading turn-off in Shinfield you’ll find a very well-known posh destination – L’Ortolan. The former is the only Michelin star restaurant in Reading. Chef Tom Clarke’s inspired and often playful menus include a 10-course surprise menu! For an alternative experience guests can join the kitchen team and be a chef for a day with a Chef’s Experience. Nearby in the village of Sonning sits The French Horn, a 200-year-old coaching inn on

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Pictured The Bel & The Dragon has branches in Reading, Cookham and Windsor and serves modern British classics including afternoon tea

the banks of the Thames. On sunny days diners can admire the weeping willows on the terrace, otherwise the formal dining room has delightful views over the river and gardens and offers a classical menu of dishes from yesteryear – a gueridon trolley adds to the theatre. Over in Binfield Heath you’ll find Orwells, named after George Orwell, who spent his childhood in the area. This brilliant eatery has been painstakingly realised by Ryan Simpson and Liam Trotman – two chefs known for their ‘clever creativeness’. Creative cooking uses locally-sourced ingredients, foraged pickings, home-grown vegetables and honey from the owners’ hives. The set lunch is a real bargain. Also in Reading, look up the modern London Street Brasserie with its excellent set menu prices. In nearby Hurley is stylish Hurley House – a relatively new eating house (plus swish boutique hotel) – on the site of an 18thcentury inn. The restaurant, bar and a u p55

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

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EATING OUT

“Highlights of this family-run pub include roast partridge, wild sea bass and braised onglet of beef, or choose from the menu du jour, which offers two courses for £24” the Top 50 Gastropubs list at 32. Highlights of the family-run pub include roast partridge, wild sea bass and braised onglet of beef, or choose from the menu du jour, which offers two courses for £24. Over in nearby Stockton is The Vineyard, a refined restaurant offering tasting menus with matching wines from the expansive wine cellars. They more than over 100 wines by the glass – some from their own Californian vineyard. The dining room is nice too – it feels very expensive and opulent in all its grandeur. Six miles south of Newbury in the hamlet of Old Burghclere is the Dew Pond, a 16th-century country house restaurant that still retains the original oak beams, and features with a log burning fire and fine views to Watership Down, Highclere Castle and the pond from which it takes its name. A three-course menu comes in at a very reasonable £36 and includes Brixham crab, breast and confit of creedy carver duckling and warm cherry and almond tart. Also try The Pheasant, in Highclere; the Carnarvon Arms, Burghclere (next door to Highclere Castle); and The Dundas Arms, set on the Kennet and Avon canal in the charming historic village of Kintbury near Hungerford; and the Wellington Arms, Baughurst.

relaxed summer dining room offer daily set menus at reasonable prices. To the north of Reading, follow The Herd to Pangbourne for amazing steaks cooked to perfection on an open fire. And in Goring-on-Thames, the highly-acclaimed Miller of Mansfield serves beautifully-prepared uncomplicated food, think steak and chips, foie gras or pan-fried scallops. WEST BERKSHIRE This area may be far less populated than East Berks, but it boasts a number of exceptional eateries nonetheless. Of particular note is The Woodspeen in Newbury, a restaurant and cookery school, set in a restored 19thcentury farmhouse. Exceptional cuisine from John Campbell has earned the restaurant a Michelin star and lots of fans to boot. Despite being set in an old pub, it has a bistro feel, courtesy of its Scandi styling and an open kitchen for added drama. Joining the Woodspeen on the Michelin Star list is The Blackbird in the village of Bagnor, which this year made

AND NOT TOO FAR AWAY… Fine dining can be found just over Berkshire’s borders in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. In Marlow you’ve got Tom Kerridge’s two Michelin-starred Hand and Flowers, posh pub The Coach and butcher meets casual bar The Butchers Tap. Also look out for Sindhu, the Vanilla Pod and The Ivy. In Taplow sits Cliveden. Run as an exclusive hotel, it offers fine dining in its restaurant courtesy of head chef André Garrett. In Henley-on-Thames, there’s Shaun Dickens at The Boathouse; Luscombes at The Golden Ball and The Greyhound. AFTERNOON TEA? But if all you fancy is that most British of pastimes, the afternoon tea, you’re spoilt for choice – many of the classy hotels offer the experience (Cantley House Hotel, Wokingham; Coworth Park, Ascot; Royal Berkshire Hotel, Sunninghill; Laura Ashley Tea Room, Burnham Beeches Hotel). For an afternoon tea experience with a difference, try Whittington’s Tea Barge, Caversham, where you can have your cake and eat it! Bon apetit!

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

When night falls… The nightlife in Berkshire is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs and live music venues

our day of exploring might have ended, but that doesn’t mean Berkshire is off to bed! There’s still plenty to experience once the sun goes down. What with Royal Windsor a major tourist draw and Reading the largest town in the UK which doesn’t have city status (plus it’s a buzzing university town), it’s little wonder that the region is teaming with places to enjoy yourself.

READING So let’s start one of the richest sources of nightlife in Berkshire, Reading. The town has one of the largest and most diverse range of clubs and bars in the country, all packed into a cosy town centre. One of the town’s most iconic venues is the Purple Turtle, a bar of legendary status, situated on Reading’s

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Gun Street. It is quirky, artistic and unique in design, hosting live music and karaoke, as well as the dark and dungeon-esque basement thumping with Reading’s best DJ crews. Another good bar for live music is the deeply cool Oakford Social Club. Bands perform on their neon-lit stage every week, while the weekend features ‘off-centre DJs’ (their words...). Inside there’s plenty of nooks and crannies to seek solace, and the food is of the hearty pies variety. Another cool and brilliantly-named bar is Pavlov’s Dogs – a cosy retreat with a quirky interior complete with graffiti art mural. It offers free super-fast broadband, complimentary printing, plugs and USB ports, and phone chargers behind the bar to borrow. In the evening its burger and beers, dedicated sports area, TV screens and

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“With Royal Windsor a major tourist draw and Reading the largest town in the UK which doesn’t have city status (plus it’s a buzzing university town), it’s little wonder that the region is teaming with places to enjoy yourself”

board games make it a big hit with the student population. Reading has many themed establishments like Walkabout with its Australian influenced décor, live sports and Aussie-inspired drinks menu, or Lola Lo’s Pacific Island-inspired bamboo shacks and show-stopping cocktails and rums. One of the town’s newest offerings is Market House, built in the old Lloyds bank. As an ode the building’s history, the vault has been transformed into a secret garden. There’s also the newly-opened Gun Street Garden nightclub, or if you love cheesy pop music, then Popworld is your place. Also on Gun Street is the amazing Smash which homes four Olympic size ping-pong tables. But if it’s just banging tunes and a decent dancefloor you’re after, look at Matchbox or Q Club.

Above Shoals, a four-piece indie rock band, playing at Purple Turtle in Reading

Going underground, Sub 89 offers a mix of cracking live bands to cater for all tastes. Acts to have appeared here include Gary Numan, Chase and Status and Ed Sheeran, so anything’s possible! For cocktails visit MILK, a tiny indie haven with a great number of cocktails; Coconut Bar and Kitchen for creamy, fruity alcoholness – and Be At One, heralded for its party attitude and rowdy bartenders! For wine bars head to Veeno – a Reading favourite for date nights – or if you’re more into the bubble of beer and the rustle of crisp packets, you’ll find plenty of options in town and beyond. Here are some of the best in town: Near the train station are the three G’s: The Greyfriar a cosy little den selling real ale greats, down-to-earth Irish bar The Gateway and The Three Guineas, which u p58

WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

“Windsor is a fine location to spend the evening. Its night-time economy is booming, drawing party-goers, diners and culture vultures – you’ll find more than enough whistle-whetting options to choose from” serves affordable pub grub and local ales. The Hope & Bear boasts two beer gardens and offers a roaring selection of craft beers and gastro grub; Corn Stores is a cool clubby eatery; while Zerodegrees is a hip pub, micro-brewery and Italian restaurant all in one. Finally The Fisherman’s Cottage is riverside retreat ideal for unwinding. Feeling lucky? Why not put it all on black on one of the town’s two casinos, Grosvenor Casino or Genting Casino? WINDSOR Windsor is a fine location to spend the evening. Its night-time economy is booming, drawing party-goers, diners and culture vultures. You’ll find more than enough whistle-whetting options to choose from – everything from your typical English boozer to classy gin joints,

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atmospheric gastropubs to thumping nightclubs. So let’s start with one the town’s most popular pubs – The Two Brewers, located by the entrance to the Long Walk. Small but perfectly formed – there are only nine tables inside and wooden benches outside – it serves good English beer and old-world wines. Other historic pubs include the Prince Arthur, a down-to-earth pub dating from 1898, and The George, an 18th-century boozer with superb castle views as well as a lovely terrace and garden area. The Boatman on the Thames has been an historical drinking and eating establishment since 1829 and it is Windsor’s only proper pub by the river. The friendly Duchess of Cambridge, right opposite Windsor Castle, is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike with its real log fire in the winter and sun terrace in the warmer months. Likewise the Queen Charlotte – also a stone’s throw away from the castle – is a popular watering hole, not least because of its choice of more than 50 different gins. The Alma is a traditional British pub with the largest beer garden in Windsor and offers classic ales, lovely wines and a whole rainbow of cocktails. The wooden tables and quirky collection of vintage collectibles, many of which are for sale, make the Alma an eccentric spot for a tipple.

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convivial pub with a laid-back atmosphere and joyful live music events. The Henry VI, over in Eton, is also good for live music. The Old Ticket Hall, open Wednesday through to Sunday, is a fantastic place to have a pint while listening to a great mix of artists ranging from acoustic acts to live bands. Likewise The Old Court offers live music, drama, comedy and film. Its bar is run by Windsor & Eton Brewery, which revived a brewing tradition in Windsor – don’t miss out on sampling their beers locally, or even take a tour of the brewery. SOMETHING DIFFERENT... For something to really remember, why not join a group for an informative guided walk of Windsor or Eton, join an exclusive evening tour of the sumptuous State Apartments at Windsor Castle, head to Windsor or Ascot Racecourse for a thrilling evening meeting, or take in a show at Windsor’s Theatre Royal or nearby Maidenhead’s excellent Norden Farm?

ELSEWHERE... Berkshire is a big county, so it’s impossible to mention all of its fantastic bars, clubs and pubs here. But here’s a very quick round up of some the more notorious: For nightclubs, try Club 1, a sophisticated nightclub for over 25s in Ascot; Jagz – great for live jazz – also in Ascot; Fantasy Nightclub, Slough; Smokeys, Maidenhead; Zinc in Newbury; and the Coppid Beech, Bracknell. If it’s a pub you seek, these little gems in Berkshire have a lot to offer. Just 10 minutes from Newbury Racecourse in Yattendon is the Royal Oak, an old inn with beamed and panelled rooms, surrounded by flowers. The West Berkshire Brewery is based in the same village, so u p61

If you’re looking for a bustling bar, try All Bar One in Windsor Royal Shopping, or No 5 St Leonard’s Road, which is described as the best Champagne bar in Windsor. Also look out for Suede Windsor, with fun cocktails and live DJs. For a chance to take your drinking session into the night and onto the dance floor, head to Windsor’s seedy but thrilling Arches area – actual Victorian railway arches – where you’ll find most of the town’s nightclubs – The Scotch Bar, Bar Yello, Charley’s Horse (Mexican cantina AND nightclub) or The Boom – side by side. Each club has its own personality, music style and clientele, and it’s not unusual to see groups of revellers bobbing from bar to bar. Elsewhere, Vanilla can be found in the Royal Shopping Centre, and Atik on William Street. To make sure patrons get home safely, a taxi marshalling scheme operates near the Arches and in Victoria Street. For something a little different check out The Fuzzy Bear in The Arches, Windsor’s only nightclub offering comedy and karaoke. Or laugh your socks off at Just the Tonic comedy club. If you prefer your performances to be slightly less toe-curling, there are a number of places in Windsor where you can catch the next Elton John (Old Windsor resident). The Duke of Connaught is one such place, a

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“The Swan Inn, near Hungerford, sits beside the Lambourn river in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is great for the warmer months when you can sit outside” the four real ales on hand pump are on top form. In nearby Frilsham is Pot Kiln an idyllic country dining pub with a small bar with local beers, imaginative food and a sun trap garden. The Red Lion in Upper Basildon, near Basildon House, is a laid-back country pub which hosts summer barbecues and hog roasts in the warmer months. The Bull Inn in Sonning is a pretty timbered inn situated in a spot near the Thames; Burattas at the Royal Oak in Ruscombe serves Binghams (the brewery is just across the road) Twyford Tipple, and wines from the Stanlake Park Vineyard in the village. The pub is on the Henley Arts Trail. Do visit the friendly landlady’s antiques and collectables shop, which is open during pub hours.

COUNTRY PUBS Coming in at number eight on the Top 50 Gastropubs of the Year is Dominic Chapman’s The Beehive, in White Waltham. The food is pure nectar, but it’s not just the food creating a buzz – The Beehive offers a large selection of cask ales and draught beers as well as an extensive wine list showcasing a wide variety of regions and vintages. Dominic trained at Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in Bray, which leads nicely on to Heston’s two other pubs in Bray – The Hinds Head and The Crown – both offer excellent food and grand drinks options. The Plough, Eastbury, near Lambourn, likes to source locally, so features beer from one of the local microbreweries – they have an ale takeaway container so you can enjoy a new-found favourite at home. There’s also a selection of more than 40 gins to choose from. The Swan Inn, near Hungerford, sits beside the Lambourn river in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is great for the warmer months when you can sit outside. In colder weather you’ll find super comfy armchairs and roaring log fires. The Winning Post, Winkfield, is a bit off the beaten track, but it’s a great place for horse lovers and it’s popular with the horsey set in the racing and polo seasons. Full of 18th-century features to go with the equestrian themes, it’s spacious and has a lovely beer garden Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to occupy your evenings in Berkshire. Turn to the arts pages to find out more about local theatres and arts centres; and the sports page to find out where you can watch or play your favourite sport.

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WELCOME TO BERKSHIRE

ARTS & CULTURE

A hub of culture and creativity This county is full of inspiring arts and culture and is overflowing with festivals and exhibitions for you to discover, whatever time of year you visit

erkshire really is a county that has it all – it’s buzzing and vibrant in places; peaceful and good for the soul in other. It’s no surprise then that it has inspired a host of artists, poets, writers and filmmakers. This is the county which inspired Ratty, Mole, Toad and Badger to head off on their adventures in Kenneth Grahame’s Wind in the Willows; it’s where Richard Adams was inspired to write Watership Down; where Michael Bond wrote Paddington Bear; and where poet John Betjeman willed ‘friendly bombs to fall on Slough’! Jane Austen went to school at the Abbey School in Reading (and liked it) and Oscar Wilde wrote The Ballad of Reading Gaol while serving a two-year sentence there. It’s also here that Reading-born Ricky Gervais had us laughing till we cried at The Office, a mockumentary set at the supposed paper company Wernham Hogg on Slough Trading Estate.

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Opposite page The Octagon Drawing Room at Basildon Park; Above Windsor Long Walk and Windsor Castle

But it’s not just Slough with a claim to fame – the county’s historic streets and buildings have between the backdrop to many films and TV shows over the years – even a number of Carry On films (Maidenhead’s Town Hall was the hospital entrance in Carry On Doctor, and Windsor has been used for numerous Carry Ons). The Long Walk in Windsor was where Cinderella met her prince in the 2015 film; while Eton College stood in for Cambridge’s Caius College as the young runners famously race round the quad in Chariots of Fire. The National Trust’s Basildon Park has appeared as Netherfield Park for Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen would be pleased) in 2005 and three years later in The Duchess. The interior would be recognisable to any u p65

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FREE PARKING ONSITE

Maidenhead’s vibrant entertainment venue – offering music, comedy, drama, films and more. Open seven days a week and with over 100 events and films a season, there’s something for everyone all year round. Featuring a licensed café bar with free WiFi – all are welcome to stop by for an afternoon coffee and cake, evening drink or a bite to eat from the seasonal menu. Find out more at www.nordenfarm.org @nordenfarm Box Office 01628 788997 | boxoffice@nordenfarm.org Norden Farm Centre for the Arts | Altwood Road | Maidenhead | SL6 4PF

Discover more at South Hill Park Arts Centre and Wilde Theatre Described as the ‘Jewel in the Crown of Berkshire’, South Hill Park has been providing arts to the community of Bracknell for 45 years. The beautiful mansion house, set in stunning grounds, hosts theatre, comedy, cinema, art and dance studios, gallery, restaurant and bar, venue hire, is a licensed wedding venue, and has free on-site parking. There is something for everyone to fall in love with at South Hill Park.

Find out more at southhillpark.org.uk BOX OFFICE 01344 484123 · SOUTHHILLPARK.ORG.UK @SOUTHHILLPARK

/SOUTHHILLPARKARTSCENTRE

South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA

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South Hill Park Trust Limited A charitable company limited by guarantee

ARTS & CULTURE

“Spencer lived and worked in Cookham most of his life, and this gallery, while intimate, has the world’s largest collection of his paintings on display”

Downton Abbey fan as it was used for Grantham House, the Crawleys’ London mansion. The Gothic and now luxurious hotel Oakley Court was a natural home for Hammer House of Horror Films nearly 70 years ago, before the company moved next door to what was to become Bray Studios. The house has been a creepy backdrop to a number of Hammer Horrors – but it’s best known – and is still attracting visitors – for its major role as Dr Frank ‘N’ Furter’s castle in 1975’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show. ICONIC FILM STUDIOS Bray Studios closed around 2012 and was bought by a developer to be turned into housing. Horrors... But, in true movie style, there’s a twist… Because demand for filming studios, mainly from companies like Netflix, is increasing, the developer agreed to reopen the studios and it was here that the Elton John biopic Rocketman, and the BBC reworking of Dracula, were filmed. The county’s picturesque backdrop has also inspired some great artists, including one of the greatest painters of the 20th century, Sir Stanley Spencer. The local landscape and residents formed the subjects of some of his most wonderful works, which can be seen in the Stanley Spencer Gallery, in Cookham High Street. Spencer lived and worked in Cookham most of his life, and this gallery, while intimate, has the world’s largest collection of his paintings on display. Among the wonderful works in a changing exhibition are loans from fine art galleries as well as from private collectors. There is video of the artist, too, and trails for excitable children to follow. Spencer died in 1959 (the gallery opened three years later) and his gravestone can be visited at Holy Trinity Churchyard in Cookham. His works can also be seen just over the border in Hampshire at the National Trust’s Sandham Memorial Chapel. His experiences as a medical orderly and a soldier on the Salonika front in World War I are depicted in a series of 19 paintings, considered by many to be his artist’s finest achievement. You’ll find a veritable treasure trove of antique and contemporary art to view at the various stately homes around the county, but for the grandest display, you would of course head to a castle. u p66 Left The Stanley Spencer Gallery, in Cookham High Street, has the world’s largest collection of the artist’s paintings on display

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And what art! Windsor Castle’s incredible architecture, porcelain, furniture and paintings reflect the tastes of generations of monarchs. One of the largest and most important art collections in the world – The Royal Collection – is managed from the castle, and many of its masterpieces line the castle’s walls, ceilings and floors. Painting from artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto can be seen in the State Apartments. Look up to see the painted ceilings from Antonio Verrio and carvings by Grinling Gibbons, commissioned by Charles II who wished to rival his cousin Louis XIV’s dazzling palace at Versailles. WORLD’S BEST ART The Drawings Gallery houses changing selections from the collection, including works by Leonardo, Holbein, Michelangelo and Raphael, while in the Waterloo Chamber is an amazing Indian carpet, woven by inmates from Agra prison for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1894. It is thought to be the largest seamless carpet in existence. Children and adults alike will adore Queen Mary’s Dolls House. Built by the leading architect Sir Edwin Lutyens for Queen Mary in the early 1920s, this dolls house is the largest and most intricate in the world. Another must-see is The China Museum – beautiful pieces of porcelain that Queen Mary chose to display in the corridor in the 1920s.

Welcome to Shaw House Shaw House is one of the best preserved Elizabethan mansions in England, built in 1581. Over the centuries it has welcomed royalty, seen action during the Civil War, housed soldiers during World War II and schooled generations of local children. It is a truly unique place to hold a conference or meeting, or simply to visit and enjoy one of our many events.

• • • • •

Conferences & Meetings Nine historic & beautiful rooms FREE parking Competitive hourly rates FREE WIFI

• Open to public Feb - Sept (weekends and school holidays) • FREE entry to the House • Family activities & events • Cafe & gift shop

www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

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Shaw House Church Road, Newbury, West Berkshire RG14 2DR T: 01635 279279 shawhouse@westberks.gov.uk Shaw House

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ARTS & CULTURE

For collectors of art, there are galleries aplenty dotted all around the county, showcasing the talents of various artists. One of the most exciting events is the Windsor Contemporary Arts Fair, which takes place in November and promises to sell ‘real art for real people’, with prices between £40 and £4,000. The Fair also takes place in Newbury in May. In the spring Berks hosts its own Open Studios event. For two weeks in May, art lovers can see artists at work in their own homes or studios, buy completed works and meet fellow enthusiasts en route. Other arts festivals of note include the Reading Contemporary Art Fair in April, and Maidenhead hosts its Art on the Street events twice a year, where you can browse and buy works by local artists.

“Reading has its main theatre, The Hexagon, plus smaller arts venue South Street and The Concert Hall, which host a varied programme including comedy and classical music”

THEATRES & ART CENTRES If you prefer your art to perform for you on a stage, the county is well-served by theatres and arts centres. Windsor has the beautiful Theatre Royal, nestled in the shadow of Windsor Castle, which is the only unsubsidised producing theatre to operate all year round in Britain. Also in the town centre is The Old Court (formerly The Firestation), a vibrant arts centre which offers a vibrant mix of live music, drama, comedy and film. Over in Maidenhead is the Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, an amazing little venue with a varied programme, including tribute bands, record nights, comedy and theatrical production. Lots on for children. In Slough is The West Wing Arts Centre, while in Bracknell you’ll find South Hill Park. Newbury has The Corn Exchange and The Watermill Theatre. Reading has its main theatre, The Hexagon, plus smaller arts venue South Street and The Concert Hall, which host a varied programme including comedy and classical music. In nearby Sonning is the charming dinner theatre, The Mill at Sonning, converted from an 18th-century flour mill, and very fond of a farce and a whodunit. All of the above venues regularly host live bands and singers, but for specialist live venues, try The Old Ticket Hall, Windsor, an atmospheric bar in ex railway ticket office which has a great mix of artists, from acoustic acts to live bands. There’s a thriving arts and culture scene emerging in Slough. During the past three years, the town has hosted art and cultural events and projects including four incarnations of the Streets Alive Festival, supported by Home Slough, an organisation which is revitalising the local art scene. And Slough may even become the UK’s first official Town of Culture. Its local MP has proposed a Town of Culture award to run alongside the UK City of Culture award. So watch this space! In Bracknell, look up The Acoustic Couch; or try the Wokingham Music Club in, well, Wokingham. For jazz, head for Jagz supper club in Ascot, or The Jazz Cafe in Reading. For world music, try The Global u p69

Above left The Hexagon is Reading’s main multi-purpose entertainment venue and hosts an eclectic mix of performances; Left Norden Farm Centre offers a range of classes and workshops for adults, young people and children alike

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ARTS & CULTURE

“For something with a bit of class, you’ve got the Newbury Spring Festival which runs for two weeks in May where international symphony orchestras, ensembles and soloists rub shoulders with jazz legends and world music artists” Cafe with its hugely successful open mic night, also in Reading. Other Reading belters include The Oakford Social Club, a pub where you can enjoy bands and DJs for free; The Rising Sun Arts Centre, the archetypal rock’n’roll venue; The Purple Turtle, a venue steeped in local history; and Face Bar, home of the slightly heavier genres of the local music scene. Of course Reading is known for a certain festival. The Reading Festival, which takes place in for three days over the August Bank Holiday, is the world’s oldest popular music festival still in existence. Many of the UK’s most successful rock and pop bands have played at the festival, including The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Radiohead and Nirvana. But the granddaddy isn’t Reading’s only festival – far from

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Above The Newbury Spring Festival is where international symphony orchestras, ensembles and soloists, jazz legends and world music artists meet for a fortnight of world-class music

it! You’ve also got (to name but a few), Are You Listening Festival in April, Reading Carnival in May; Readipop Festival for popular music in July and the Fringe Festival, also in July, an arts extravaganza, with quirky performances from acts heading up to the Edinburgh Fringe. LIVE MUSIC Also in Reading, Sub89 delivers a cracking mix of live bands to cater for all tastes. Acts to have appeared here include Gary Numan, Chase and Status and Ed Sheeran! For intimate indie music, try the tiny venue MILK. Over in Cookham in May is Let’s Rock the Moor, a family-friendly 1980s festival whose acts have included Adam Ant, Billy Ocean, Nick Heywood and Level 42. For something with a bit of class, you’ve got the Newbury Spring Festival which runs for two weeks in May where international symphony orchestras, ensembles and soloists rub shoulders with jazz legends and world music artists. Something similar can be found at Windsor’s Festival in September. And don’t forget to check what’s on at the region’s stately homes, which quite often host open-air performances throughout the summer. There quite literally is something for everyone so get out there and experience it for yourself.

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Things you shouldn’t miss… Make sure you don’t leave here without checking out these must-see attractions

BE KING OF THE CASTLE... Take a tour around Windsor Castle – the Queen’s second home and the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Take a tour inside, where you can see the magnificent State Apartments, and St George’s Chapel, which has recently hosted two Royal Weddings. Enjoy the castle from the outside watching the Changing of the Guard (then go get a cream tea because you’ll be radiating British tradition by that point). Elsewhere make like Lady Crawley and visit Highclere Castle in Newbury (TV’s Downtown Abbey), or the ruined medieval Donnington Castle in Donnington..

VISIT ELEGANT HOMES See how the other half live at some of the country’s finest homes and gardens; from the elegant Palladian facade of Basildon Park, Reading, to the glorious maze and gardens at Cliveden, Taplow, to Shaw House, near Newbury, one of the best preserved Elizabethan mansions in England.

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THINGS TO DO

VISIT ROYAL WINDSOR Outside of London, Windsor is the most popular tourist attraction in the UK – and rightly so. As well as the castle you’ve got the magnificent Great Park, a terrific array of shops, restaurants and bars, boat trips, a racecourse, a theme park and a theatre.

Also worth a look… RIDE A ROLLERCOASTER It’s true, Legoland IS AWESOME! Perfect for those with younger children who like to drive their own car, come face-to-face with a shark or ride on a dragon. For thrillseekers, both Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures are nearby. HAVE A FLUTTER ON THE GEE-GEES Try your luck on the horses at Newbury Racecourse, or Ascot Racecourse, famous for the King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Stakes during Royal Ascot in June. Alternatively, Windsor Racecourse can be reached by boat and is well known for its evening meetings in the summer.

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY Fill your boots at one of the county’s eight Michelin-starred restaurants – but don’t forget to check out the rest. Every taste and every budget is catered for here, from cosy pub classics to tempting Thai curries. Microbreweries are popping up everywhere, so be sure to sample the local ales, head to West Berkshire Brewery for the very best of British beer. Pictured is Botrytis by Jose Luis Lopez de Zubiria at the Fat Duck.

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TREK THROUGH A RAINFOREST Watch birds, butterflies and lizards roam around tropical glasshouses at The Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys, home to over 650 rainforest plants and animals.

VISIT THE SIR STANLEY SPENCER GALLERY Exhibiting the works of one of Britain’s best-loved painters, the Stanley Spencer Gallery is situated in the heart of Cookham, the where Spencer was born and painted for most of his life. The gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of Spencer paintings, drawings, personal letters and photographs.

TAKE IN A SHOW Serious drama, big name stars, home-grown productions or side-splitting comedy – it’s all here. The Theatre Royal, Windsor; The Hexagon, Reading; Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead; South Hill Park, Bracknell and the Corn Exchange, Newbury are but a few venues.

WALK ALONG BRITAIN’S OLDEST ROAD Pull on your walking boots and follow The Ridgeway National Trail, which follows a route used since prehistoric times. The trail passes through the Berkshire Downs, a stunning line of hills offering wide, open views of rolling chalk downland – look out for the white horses cut into the chalk.

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Get out and get active! There are plenty of opportunities to participate in sport here – but those who prefer to watch are well-catered for too

herever your passion for sport lies, partaking or watching, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Think of Berkshire and you’ll probably think of horse racing. Did you know, this county hosts more Group 1 flat horse races than any other county? So why not try your luck at Ascot – especially during Royal Ascot week in June, where you can join the royals in cheering on your favourite in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes? Nearby Windsor Racecourse regularly holds evening meetings throughout the summer. Because the course is located on a large island, it is the only racecourse in the country where you can arrive in style by catching a boat from Windsor Town centre. Over in West Berkshire, Newbury Racecourse hosts the famous Hennessy Gold Cup – said to be the biggest handicap race of the season apart from the Grand National. Nearby in Lambourn you’re likely to see many Newbury hopefuls in training out on Lambourn Downs. If you really want to fit in Berkshire, pack up a picnic and head for a polo game. If you are after something that combines the worlds of fast-paced test match polo with the international worlds of film, fashion, entertainment and

society, alongside leaders and captains of industry, head to the newly appointed surroundings of the ‘Home of English Polo’ at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club, Windsor. PRESTIGIOUS EVENTS It is one of the top-tier polo clubs in the UK and it is now the new home of The International Day, this prestigious event is one of the highest profile sporting events in the British summer calendar and will be held on the 27th July this year – be sure to dress to impress. Well, how about bubbles and blazers at a regatta? The Henley Royal Regatta, which takes place for five days in July, is a rowing event synonymous with the English social season. The rowing course is just over two kilometres long and straddles Buckinghamshire and Berkshire on either side of the Thames. It’s all jolly good fun. If you prefer to partake in, rather than watch water sports, there are several excellent places in which to do so. Because the rivers Thames and Kennet run through the county, there are always places to fish, swim, kayak, row or sail, but for supervised fun try one of the area’s water sports centres. Bray Lake for example offers windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. It is also open all year

SPORT & LEISURE

Opposite page The Grandstand and Parade Ring during the Royal Procession on day one of Royal Ascot; Above Berkshire boasts some of the greatest golf courses in the country

round for open water swimming. Similar activities can be enjoyed at the Andrew Simpson Water Sports Centre, Reading and Theale Water Sports Club. Liquid Leisure Water Sports Complex in Datchet offers cable wakeboarding and water skiing – it’s also got an incredibly fun inflatable course to bounce around on, as has Lagoona Park in Reading. WORLD-CLASS ROWING Dorney Lake, owned by Eton College, is the place Team GB bagged 12 medals in the 2012 Olympics, and is now a world-class rowing and kayak training and competition facility. The 5km round route makes it ideal for running, walking or cycling round – or even roller skiing! For skiing of a different type visit Bracknell Ski Slope and Ice Rink where you can ski, ice skate, snowboard or snowtube. You can also skate at Slough Ice Arena. Hockey, both on and off the ice is another major Berkshire sport. If you enjoy golf, Berkshire has some of England’s greatest courses to tee off from. Some of the best include Sunningdale – the ‘Mona Lisa of heathland golf courses’, Swinley Forest, The Berkshire, East Berkshire, West Berkshire, Donnington Grove, Calcot Park, Sonning and Reading. Sometimes being a spectator is better than taking part, so don’t miss the chance to see Reading FC. at The Madejski Stadium in Reading. More of a rugby fan? London Irish also play at the Madejski Stadium.

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TRAVEL

Reading Bridge over the River Thames

Finding your way around Getting to this region couldn’t be simpler and visitors can also get around with ease

By air Those visiting the county via a flight will arrive at one of the London airports. Heathrow and Gatwick are the closest, with Heathrow being only a 20-minute drive from Slough or Windsor.

Visit nationalexpress.com. As part of the London commuter belt, Berkshire is well connected to the national rail network. Great Western Railway (GWR) operates services around the county, calling at Newbury, Reading, Maidenhead, Windsor and Eton, Slough and Wokingham. Windsor, Ascot, Bracknell, Wokingham and Reading are also connected by Southwest Trains; and Cross Country Trains with links to Intercity services stops at Reading. The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) is due to open at the end of 2021 and will connect Reading, Maidenhead, Taplow, Burnham and Slough to central and east London. See National Rail Enquiries for all the latest information on train times, routes and tickets. Visit nationalrail.co.uk. London Underground tubes stop at Uxbridge (Metropolitan and Piccadilly Line) and Ruislip (Central Line) both near Slough and Windsor. Visit tfl.gov.uk.

By public transport One of the simplest routes into Berkshire is via coach, with National Express coaches stopping at most major towns in the county.

GETTING AROUND By car Major A roads run through the county, including the A4 running east to west serving

entrally situated, Berkshire is easy to get to and around, whether you are driving or via public transport. Part of the M4 corridor, none of the county is further than around ten miles from the motorway.

GETTING HERE By car Berkshire is well served by motorways, with the M4 passing directly through the county, with links also provided to the M40, M25 and M3 motorways. The eastern side of the county is approximately a 30-minute drive to London. Oxford and Bath are also commutable.

Slough, Reading, Newbury and Hungerford; the A329 serving Ascot, Bracknell, Wokingham, Reading and Pangbourne; and the A34, home of the Newbury Bypass. By public transport Several bus companies operate within Berkshire including First Buses, Reading Buses and Courtney Buses serving all corners of the county and offering reasonably-priced travel. There are also rural services to areas based more in the countryside. It’s easy to get around on the train in Berks, either with Great Western Trains or Southwest Trains. Traveline has up-to-date information on all bus, coach and rail services in Berkshire. Visit traveline.info. Alternative transport With miles of cycle lanes, cycle routes, paths with cycle access and public bridleway, cycling, walking and horse riding is a big deal in Berks. See cyclinguk.org/cycle/ cycling-berkshire for information.

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BEYOND BERKSHIRE

Ready to explore more? A journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure!

hile it’s unlikely that you’ll run out of things to do in Berkshire, its central position and excellent road and rail links make it a great springboard for exploring other regions. Wherever you’re staying, you’re never more than around an hour away from London by train, so a trip to Wembley Stadium, The Natural History Museum, Harrods, Big Ben or taking in a West End show is very do-able. Berkshire’s surrounding counties hold some tempting attractions with big cities such as Bath, Oxford, Salisbury, Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth all roughly just over an hour’s drive or train ride away.

NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES To the north of the county sits Buckinghamshire. Did you know, this county is home to more National Trust properties than anywhere else? One of its shining lights is Cliveden – a swanky hotel where Meghan Markle recently spent the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. The house boasts amazing grounds with far-reaching views over the Thames and an award-winning restaurant. Another must is Waddesdon Manor – a beautiful French renaissance-style chateau housing the some of the Rothschild’s outstanding collection of art. Equally worth a visit are the Capability Brown-designed Stowe Landscape Gardens – described as the finest outdoor work of art in Europe. Other attractions in Bucks include Bekonscot in Beaconsfield, the oldest model village in the world; The Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden; Buckinghamshire Railway Centre in Quainton, a working steam museum; and Bletchley Park, home to the famous WW2 Enigma machines. A bit further north-east is the incredible Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where Harry Potter fans can see the magical props, animatronic creatures, costumes and sets used to create the films. Going south-east into Surrey, thrillseekers will be beside themselves at Thorpe Park and Chessington World of

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Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

Adventures; and, a bit more sedate, the magnificent Kew Gardens, which houses the ‘largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world’. Surrey is also home to Polesden Lacey, an Edwardian mansion on a 1,400-acre estate. Bordering Berkshire to the south is Hampshire, home to Jane Austen’s House Museum, where she spent the last eight years of her life. It’s also home to Winchester Cathedral, and, in nearby Whitchurch, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, where you see where they make the world-class gin – and sample it too. Animal lovers should stop in to Marwell Zoo or Birdworld, the largest bird park in the UK. To the west in Wiltshire is the world’s largest prehistoric stone circle at Avebury, or a bit further west, Stonehenge. History can also be delved into at Lacock Abbey and Stourhead; also Longleat House and Safari Park.

Over in Oxfordshire is historic Oxford, where you can spend the day exploring the shops or university colleges, punting along the river or visiting one of its excellent museums, such as the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, Pitt Rivers Museum or the Bodleian Library. Over in nearby Woodstock is the monumental Blenhiem Palace – the only non-royal non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. Oxfordshire is also home to Henley-onThames, a fab town for exploring, and the River and Rowing Museum is simply charming. Try booking tickets for the regatta or the fabulous festival in June/July. And shoppers will be in their element to the north of the county at Bicester Village – a designer outlet stocking 160 brands at up to 60% off. Enjoy exploring! Inspired by Berkshire’s surrounding areas? For further inspiration visit kingfishervisitorguides. com for comprehensive guides to over 70 leading cities and regions in the UK and Ireland.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over in historic Oxford, you can spend the day exploring the shops or university colleges, punt along the river or visit one of its excellent museumsâ&#x20AC;?

Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library at Oxford University, Oxford

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