Newbury

Newbury and Surrounding Villages: Countryside Living with Market Town Appeal
Settled in West Berkshire and bordering Hampshire, Newbury is a thriving market town known for its rich history, excellent transport links, and beautiful surrounding countryside. Steeped in heritage, Newbury’s origins trace back to medieval times, and its town centre still reflects that charm with traditional architecture, a historic market square, and the picturesque Kennet and Avon Canal running through its heart. Once a key coaching stop between London and the West Country, Newbury today blends period elegance with modern convenience.

Surrounding Newbury are a collection of idyllic villages — each offering their own unique appeal. These villages are set within rolling countryside on the edge of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making them perfect for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle with easy access to town amenities. From the grandeur of Highclere Castle, world-famous as the filming location for Downton Abbey, to the community charm of Chieveley and the quintessential English lanes of Bucklebury, the area offers a remarkable blend of history, beauty, and lifestyle.

Newbury itself is home to a wide array of restaurants, cafés, independent shops, and cultural venues such as the Corn Exchange Theatre. The town is also known for Newbury Racecourse, one of the UK’s premier race venues, and Donnington Castle, a historic ruin offering panoramic views of the countryside. For families, the area boasts an excellent selection of both state and independent schools, including Thorngrove, Horris Hill, Cheam, and Downe House nearby.

With direct rail services to London Paddington in under an hour, proximity to the M4 and A34, and quick connections to Reading, Oxford, and Winchester, Newbury is exceptionally well-positioned for commuters.

The Newbury area offers the perfect blend of market town vibrancy and village tranquillity. Residents enjoy access to outstanding natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and a pace of life that suits both growing families and those seeking a quieter retreat. Whether you’re drawn to the heritage of the villages, the proximity to nature, or the thriving town centre, Newbury and its surrounding villages continue to stand out as one of the most desirable places to live in the South East.