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West Berkshire

A guide to West Berkshire

West Berkshire lies in the south, just east of London and is majorly comprised of a rural landscape which provides residents with the quaintness of country life whilst being near to the hustle and bustle of the city. The area is populated with an abundance of charming villages and market towns which are accompanied by stunning natural scenery; such as the North Wessex Downs which is classified as an Area of Natural Beauty.

West Berkshire is a great commuter spot for those working in London or Bristol with the location being almost equidistant between the two. Whether you’re looking for cottages, townhouses or farms and estates you’ll find your perfect fit in picturesque West Berkshire.

Local schools

West Berkshire has great education offerings for students of all ages. From secondary schools like The Willink School, to independent schools such as Downe House, St Gabriel’s School and Pangbourne College there’s a number of great offerings for older children.

The same goes for primary schools, Brimpton Church of England Primary School, Chieveley Primary School and Beenham Primary School are all featured in the top 20 of the school league tables for the area.

For those looking to continue their education West Berkshire also offers excellent further education opportunities. Newbury College is the area’s largest further education provider, while both Reading College and the University of Reading are within easy reach.

Who calls West Berkshire Home?

West Berkshire is home to a diverse mix of residents, from families who choose the area due to its great schools and wide open spaces, to working professionals who are looking for a simple commute without sacrificing countryside charm. The district is also home to a thriving business community, with many residents working in nearby Reading, Newbury and along the M4 corridor.

Lifestyle

Shopping

Shopping in West Berkshire has something for everyone. With independent retailers, traditional markets and more modern high-street brands. Newbury is the region’s main shopping destination, with a wide range of well-known brands, boutiques and specialist stores while market towns like Hungerford are known for their local, independent businesses.

Eating and drinking

West Berkshire is renowned for its excellent food and drink scene, with fresh, locally sourced produce at its heart. From charming pubs scattered across the stunning North Wessex Downs to contemporary restaurants, there is something to suit every taste. Popular venues include The Winterbourne Arms, The Pheasant Inn and The Dundas Arms, which enjoys a picturesque riverside setting near Kintbury

Things to do

There’s no shortage of things to do and see in West Berkshire. One of the locals favourite things about the area are the huge number of fantastic green spaces around the West Berkshire region. The Hungerford Park Estate is home to beautiful gardens as well as its very own farm shop full of locally sourced meat, wine and cheese. Welford Park hosts a number of events and attractions including the snowdrop gardens which is a beautiful woodland littered with an abundance of snowdrop flowers. Whether it’s an afternoon walk or a weekend day-trip to explore, residents love to wander the green spaces, cycle, wakeboard, hire boats and more.

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Travel

Trains

West Berkshire is renowned for being well connected. There are a number of stations that operate throughout the area connecting travellers to London and Bristol with ease including Newbury Station, Thatcham Station and Kintbury Station. Reading, Woking and Basingtoke station are also located nearby which each hold a number of excellent connections to London, Southerly regions and further nationwide destinations.

Roads and other transport

The M4 which runs all the way from London to Wales via Bristol and Bath cuts right through the heart of West Berkshire. Being situated at an almost equidistant point between London and Bristol has made the area a desirable commuter spot, with each destination being just over an hour away

London Heathrow Airport is within easy reach of West Berkshire, providing access to a wide range of international destinations. Southampton Airport and Bristol Airport are also easily accessible for domestic and European travel.

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