Newbury

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Newbury's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café in the heart of Newbury. Afterward, stroll through the historic center, taking in the charming architecture and the iconic Corn Exchange. Don’t forget to stop by the Market Place to explore local shops and artisan stalls.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the West Berkshire Museum to learn about the rich history and heritage of the area. Take a walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal, enjoying the serene views and perhaps spotting some wildlife. Grab lunch at a local pub to savor traditional British fare.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a fine restaurant that offers a mix of local and international cuisine. Afterward, catch a performance at the Newbury Corn Exchange, where you can experience local theater and music. End your day with a pleasant walk along the river, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring the Gardens of Newbury
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Greenham Common, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning walk and take in the expansive views. Afterward, head to the Newbury Gardens, known for their stunning floral displays and tranquil surroundings. A light picnic breakfast in the gardens is a perfect way to embrace nature.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Shaw House, a historic building with lovely gardens and fascinating architecture. Explore the grounds and learn about the history of the house while enjoying the serene atmosphere. For lunch, find a nearby café and indulge in some homemade treats.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the gardens for a guided tour that focuses on the evening blooms and garden scents. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a nearby bistro that specializes in seasonal dishes. Cap off the day with a relaxing stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on the beauty of the gardens.

day 3
A Day at the Racecourse
morning
:

Start the day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Newbury Racecourse. Enjoy the excitement of the morning races, where you can place friendly bets and cheer on your favorite horses. The atmosphere is electric as enthusiasts gather to witness the thrilling sport.

afternoon
:

After the morning races, grab lunch at one of the racecourse's dining options, enjoying a meal with views of the track. Spend the afternoon watching more races, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and possibly learning more about horse racing from fellow attendees. Take a break between races to explore the racecourse grounds and enjoy the lively ambiance.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a final round of races before the event concludes. Celebrate your day with a dinner at the racecourse restaurant, toasting to your victories with fellow racing fans. After dinner, reflect on the day's excitement while strolling through the illuminated grounds, enjoying the buzz of the event.

day 4
Cultural Discoveries at Donnington Castle
morning
:

Begin your day at the historic Donnington Castle, where you can explore the ruins and learn about its intriguing history. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the stories behind this iconic landmark. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the castle's vantage point.

afternoon
:

After your castle visit, take a scenic walk through the nearby countryside, appreciating the beauty of the English landscape. Settle down for lunch at a charming nearby pub known for its hearty fare. Post-lunch, you can visit the local shops in Donnington, finding unique keepsakes and artisan goods.

evening
:

In the evening, return to Newbury for dinner at a restaurant that highlights local produce and flavors. Afterward, consider attending a local art exhibition or cultural event to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the canal as the sun sets.

day 5
Nature Walks and Scenic Views
morning
:

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to the nearby North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy a guided nature walk, where you can learn about local flora and fauna while taking in stunning views. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will invigorate your spirit.

afternoon
:

After your walk, enjoy a packed lunch in one of the scenic spots, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the area, perhaps visiting the nearby Combe Gibbet, an iconic viewpoint. Capture photographs and make memories as you enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

evening
:

Return to Newbury for a relaxed dinner at a countryside pub, where you can savor classic British dishes. As the evening settles in, take some time to reflect on the day's adventures over a warm drink. Enjoy a peaceful night stroll, perhaps along the canal or through the town center, soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 6
Shopping and Local Markets
morning
:

Kick off the day with breakfast at a local café known for its fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, head to Newbury's bustling market, where you can browse through an array of local produce, crafts, and goods. Engage with local vendors and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

For lunch, find a cozy spot nearby to enjoy a meal made with fresh local ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the variety of shops in Newbury, from boutique stores to larger retailers. Be sure to visit the historic buildings that house these shops, adding a touch of charm to your shopping experience.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a taste of the local cuisine, perhaps trying a dish made with ingredients from the market. After dinner, consider attending a local craft or food fair if one is happening, to experience the community spirit. End your day with a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the evening lights and vibrant atmosphere.

day 7
Art and Theater Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, then head to the Newbury Art Gallery to explore contemporary art exhibitions. Engage with the artworks and participate in any workshops that may be available. The gallery's ambiance will inspire your creativity and appreciation for the arts.

afternoon
:

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery known for its artistic flair and unique dishes. Spend your afternoon visiting the local theaters, such as the Newbury Corn Exchange, to learn about upcoming performances and shows. You might even find a matinee performance to enjoy, immersing yourself in the local arts scene.

evening
:

As night falls, attend a theatrical performance at the Corn Exchange, experiencing the vibrant local talent firsthand. Afterward, grab a late dinner at a nearby restaurant, discussing your favorite moments from the show. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the town, enjoying the cultural atmosphere that lingers after the performance.

day 8
Adventure at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a cozy café before heading to the Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre. Enjoy the morning exploring the beautiful nature trails and learning about the diverse ecosystems in the area. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you walk through the picturesque surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your nature exploration, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the center. Spend the afternoon participating in activities like birdwatching or nature crafts, engaging with the environment in a hands-on way. The educational programs available will enhance your appreciation for the natural world.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Newbury for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of choices. Reflect on your adventures in nature while enjoying your meal. End your day with a light evening stroll through one of Newbury's parks, savoring the fresh air.

day 9
Historical Journey to Highclere Castle
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a local café before heading to Highclere Castle, famous for its role in 'Downton Abbey.' Explore the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens at the castle. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of the estate.

afternoon
:

After exploring Highclere, enjoy lunch at the on-site café, featuring dishes made with local ingredients. Spend the afternoon wandering the extensive grounds, ensuring to capture plenty of photographs of the picturesque scenery. You might also find a quiet spot to relax and take in the beauty of the estate.

evening
:

Return to Newbury for a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant, perhaps selecting a place that offers traditional British fare. Reflect on your day at Highclere while enjoying your meal. If you have the energy, consider checking out a local pub for a nightcap to conclude your adventurous day.

Discover Newbury

Read more in our Newbury 2025 Travel Guide.

Newbury Travel Guide