The picturesque market town of Newbury in rural Berkshire, offers a blend of scenic nature trails, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture, while also being the filming location for the popular TV series Bake Off
In the very heart of rural Berkshire you will find the idyllic market town of Newbury, or more familiar to some as the home of popular TV series, Bake Off.
The popular cake show has returned to our screens this week, bringing with an hour of calming, rural British life each week. Filming of popular TV series Bake Off takes place within the grounds of Welford Park country house each year, in a big white tent.
Welford Park is on the site of a former monastery and became Henry VIII’s deer hunting lodge before being bought by a family in 1618. Whilst the park isn’t open to the public, Welford House does host a range of events throughout the year including the upcoming Spectacle of Light (October 18 to November 10) where the estate will be illuminated by light features.
A haven for nature lovers, Newbury is home to a plethora of cycle routes and walking trails as well as a historic town full of independent businesses to explore. In addition, you will also find the famous Newbury Racecourse where around thirty race meetings are hosted per year, including the Group One Locking Stakes and the Coral Gold Cup (formerly the Hennessy Gold Cup).
Things to do
Newbury has many things to do and explore. One key spot is Greenham Common, where visitors can take in the view from one of the few remaining airfield buildings — Greenham Control Tower. The Tower went under refurbishment and reopened in 2018 with a visitor centre, museum, community hub and café.
Alternatively head to the Corn Exchange, located in a grade II listed 19th century building. Now managed by the Corn Exchange Trust, it now houses an arts centre for the South East and is home to a 400 seat theatre, a 40 seat independent cinema, and a kitchen and bar.
Highclere Castle is another beautiful Newbury spot to explore. This towering castle has transformed through the Anglo Saxon Times to a medieval palace, a Tudor place house, a Georgian house and today stands as an iconic Victorian Castle.
Places to eat
There are many places to eat or enjoy a tipple in Newbury including the Blueberry Bistro. The Bistro boasts a menu full of classic dishes with a unique twist, even including a range of blueberry-themed dishes.
Don’t like blueberries? Then head to Le Otto Campane. Located within a grade II listed public house, Le Otto Campane serves Italian dishes with a British touch. For classic pub food head to the Coopers Arms, where the atmosphere offers a cosy accompaniment to the comfort food dishes it serves.
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Places to stay
For those who want to extend their stay and explore further afield from Newbury as a base then there are some great places to stay in the town.
At the Bacon Arms, you will find a traditional inn, complete with a pub, warm atmosphere and convenient location with Highclere Castle, Donnington Castle and the Corn Exchange all in close proximity.
The town also has a Travelodge for those who like to stick to what they know or remain within a tight budget.
