5 great places to caravan in Berkshire

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Berkshire has a lot going for it - located in southern England it enjoys warmer climes, it’s only an hour away from the beautiful south coast and a 45-minute train journey will take you into the centre of London!

It is one of the home counties and is one of only 11 without a city - its county town is Reading. With a population in excess of 911,400 it’s sometimes referred to as ‘Royal Berkshire’ due to its Royal links including the fact that Windsor Castle sits within its boundaries.

Berkshire boasts some of the most spectacular countryside in England with many beautiful rural areas located just a few minutes’ drive from the town centres. The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is located in West Berkshire and crosses over into Hampshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire. Its 668 square miles are home to ancient woodland, veteran trees, arable farmland, river valleys, heaths, ancient monuments and historic towns and villages.

Windsor Pudding, Eton Mess and Berkshire Bacon Pudding are just a few of the many foods that originated here. Windsor Pudding was created in Windsor and is a stewed dish made of breadcrumbs and suet with dried fruit, chopped apple, lemon and nutmeg. 

Eton Mess got its name from the county’s famous independent school, Eton College, where the recipe originated. The dessert consists of strawberries, meringue and whipped cream and was first served in the school’s tuck shop. Berkshire Bacon Pudding - also known as Berkshire Bacon Roly Poly - is  bacon and onions wrapped in suet pastry and then steamed in a cloth - well worth a try!

Google ‘Campsites in Berkshire’ to find available campsites in the areas you’re most interested in, or utilise caravan site finders such as pitchup.com or caravansitefinder.co.uk for a more focused search that will enable you to select the key features you’d like the site to have.

5 great Berkshire locations…

1. Windsor

This historic town is home to Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Built by William The Conqueror in the 11th century, the castle has been extensively remodelled over the centuries. The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate’s main residence is Adelaide Cottage, which is located in Windsor Home Park, just east of Windsor Castle. 

Windsor Great Park is another great place to visit. Located to the south of the town, near to Windsor Castle, this royal park is 2,020 hectares and a fantastic way to spend a few hours. Events are held at the park throughout the year and park highlights include The Long Walk and Deer Park (there is a great view from the top of the hill), Saville Garden, The Copper Horse, Smiths Lawn and the walk to Blacknest Gate.

Legoland Windsor Resort is a popular theme park and definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re travelleing with kids! Lego fans travel here from all over the country to enjoy the plethora of rides, larger than life lego models, live shows and the chance to get hands-on with the bricks! The resort is made up of 12 themed lands to explore including Duplo Valley, Knight’s Kingdom,  Lego City, Pirate Shores, Lego Ninjago World and Kingdom of the Pharaohs.

 

2. Ascot

This town is known for its famous horse racing venue, Ascot Racecourse, as well as Royal Ascot and Royal Ascot Golf Course. The Racecourse hosts some of the most prestigious races in the UK. As well as a range of race days throughout the year, many other events are held here too. Memberships are available and if you’re attending a race day, you can opt to add on a fine dining package to experience the best of Ascot.

Royal Ascot is a five-day event held at the Racecourse. The 2023 event is taking place from 20-24 June and combines unparalleled racing with exquisite fine dining. It attracts many of racing’s finest horses and is and is an occasion not to be missed! Royal Ascot Golf Club is a must for golf lovers. Established in 1887, the club is rich in history and offers a rare mix of tradition, exciting social, dining and corporate facilities and a modern golf course built in an area of outstanding natural beauty. 

 

3. Reading

Reading is the county town and is the largest town in the UK by population, which hovers around 230,000. It offers many outdoor attractions that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Amongst these are Beale Wildlife Park and Wellington Country Park. 

Beale Wildlife Park was founded over 65 years ago by Gilbert Beale who created the Child Beale Trust, a charitable organisation dedicated to the care and conservation of rare and endangered mammals and birds. The 350-acre park is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon with plenty of fun family activities. Highlights include amazing animals and birds, gardens, childrens’ play areas, train rides, cafes and free parking.

Wellington Country Park is an award-winning destination for a family day out or short break in the country. Beautifully rural yet easily accessible, the park is packed with fun things to do including adventure playgrounds, a jumping pillow, animal farm, dinosaur trail, mini golf, splash zone and miniature railway. The campsite is open April to October and welcomes caravans, campervans and motorhomes.

 

4. Newbury

This historic market town is home to a number of historical attractions including Shaw House, Sandham Memorial Chapel and Donnington Castle. Shaw House is a  Grade I listed venue, set in tranquil surroundings and with plenty to explore and exhibitions to discover. Sandham Memorial Chapel is a National Trust site housing Stanley Spencer's visionary paintings. The Chapel’s orchard and meadow were planted in the 1920s when the chapel was built and the Garden of Reflection was planted in 2014 to mark the centenary of WW1.

Donnington Castle is an English Heritage site and its striking twin-towered 14th century gatehouse still remains. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are thought to have stayed here. Newbury is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

 

5. Hampstead Norreys

Located in the countryside, this village is centred on the small tributary of the River Pang, north of Newbury. It is picturesque and quaint with a range of period buildings and a very rural feel. The village is home to The Living Rainforest, a tropical greenhouse that boasts 700 species of plants and animals from around the world.

 

GET EQUIPPED!

Make sure you have all you need before embarking on your next trip away! Check out our online shop or pop into our onsite shop for a browse through our accessories and awnings. We stock over 5,000 items so we’re sure to have what you need as well as a few things you don’t! Plus - you can get 10% off most accessories during our January sale!

 

Give us a call on 01962 714 844 with any questions or pop in and see us!

 

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