Discover Newbury: Culture, Canal History and Excursions

Newbury offers a varied combination of urban history, culture and countryside. The Kennet-&-Avon Canal runs through the centre, while historic sites and extensive heathland can be found in the surrounding area. There is also a diverse programme of events, a traditional market and a racecourse with more than 100 years of history. When searching for a holiday rental in Newbury, you can therefore consider whether to choose the town itself as your cultural focus or include destinations in the surrounding area as well.

Canal History and Historic Places

The Kennet-&-Avon Canal defines the centre of Newbury. At Newbury Wharf, you will find buildings connected with the history of the canal. Anyone interested in regional development and historic buildings will find a suitable starting point here for exploring the town’s past.

The West Berkshire Museum is also housed in a remarkable historic setting: it occupies the 17th-century Cloth Hall as well as the former Granary/Corn Stores. Admission to the museum is free. Shaw House, a Grade I listed building, was the former residence of the local 16th-century cloth merchant Thomas Dolman and is located near the centre of Newbury. Exhibitions and performances take place in the house and on the grounds. From 1 April 2026 onwards, redesigned rooms presenting the Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Edwardian periods should also be available to explore.

Excursions Around Newbury

In the area around Newbury, Donnington Castle is a reminder of the English Civil War: at that time, the site withstood a 20-month siege. What remains is a 14th-century gatehouse with two towers, standing within impressive earthworks. The surrounding area therefore offers a historic contrast to the museums and buildings in the town.

The Greenham and Crookham Commons showcase another side of the region. They form the largest lowland heath in West Berkshire. The level main paths are accessible to people with limited mobility, cyclists and horse riders.

Events, Market and Park

The Corn Exchange Newbury has a 400-seat auditorium. Its programme includes theatre, dance, comedy, music, family entertainment, film and outdoor events. Victoria Park adds a historic bandstand to the cultural offering, with events taking place there in spring and during the summer months. For travel planning, it is worth comparing your preferred travel period with the relevant event programmes if a particular programme is to determine your choice.

Newbury Market has a long history and offers traditional stalls as well as arts and crafts and clothing. Newbury Racecourse combines more than 100 years of history with modern sports and event facilities, hosting races and other events. The racecourse can be reached on foot from the town centre in around 20 minutes.

Other Places for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to include other destinations in your search alongside Newbury, you can find the other places here: Chieveley, Compton, Winnersh, Streatley, Reading, Theale, Easton and Thatcham. A holiday rental in Newbury is particularly well suited to your plans if you would like to combine the cultural sites in the town with individual discoveries in the surrounding area.

For the higher-level travel overview: Berkshire.