Right in the middle of England lies Berkshire, a county that boasts an eventful past, beautiful scenery, and exciting nightlife, making it the best destination for a short break. It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in historical sites, enjoy being outdoors, or just need to relax because everything here is unique.
During your stay in this county, you can admire medieval castles, take a walk through rural landscapes that seem to have come straight off a postcard, or get involved in extreme outdoor activities such as rock climbing – not to mention gourmet meals that will leave nobody feeling indifferent. So, let’s see what awaits you in this magical county!
Discover Majestic Windsor Castle
You must certainly include Windsor Castle in your schedule, known all over the world as the oldest continuously occupied fortress on earth (over 900 years). This royal palace, almost a thousand years old, tells the story of different epochs and the ways of life led by various monarchs throughout the centuries.
Among its most notable features are the State Apartments, housing priceless works of art collected by generations of British monarchs, and St George’s Chapel – a Gothic masterpiece where many members of the royal family, including Henry VIII himself, have been buried. Walking you’re along their luxurious gardens or past ancient walls, you can’t help but feel like you’re under a spell, as they will have seen so many stories unfold right on front of them.
Walk through Scenic Countryside
Berkshire can boast of rolling hills covered with green fields and crossed by quiet rivers, making it a paradise for those who like spending time outdoors, surrounded only by the sounds of nature. The Ridgeway National Trail, named as Britain’s oldest road, offers breathtaking views over vast areas that are still untouched by human hands, while enabling tourists to explore prehistoric sites scattered along its length – some of them dating back thousands of years!
If you prefer to move a little slower, then why not rent a bike and cycle along the Kennet & Avon Canal, which goes through the most scenic parts, linking the peaceful tree-lined waterways between Reading and Bath, creating a calm atmosphere in this region.
Relax and Unwind
After a tiring and exhausting day, what could be better than sitting down and unwinding? Berkshire is believed to have many places where you can wind down after a busy day of exploring or doing outdoor activities. People who want to have a quiet evening may find it entertaining to use the internet – for instance, watching movies online or streaming TV shows on websites such as Netflix or Amazon Prime that offer an endless selection of videos.
However, those seeking a little more thrills should consider visiting real money casinos online, which offer a wide selection of games from poker, to slots and blackjack – who knows, maybe luck is just waiting around the corner for you? In any case, this combination of activities ensures that your weekend will be full of both adrenaline and relaxation.
Immerse Yourself in History and Culture
Apart from being home to the world’s largest occupied fortress, Berkshire has lots of other historical and cultural attractions that are worth exploring too. Take the town of Reading, with its museums steeped in tradition that date back centuries, while the nearby ruinous abbey founded by none other than Henry I himself sheds light upon medieval monastic life during those times gone past.
Still within a short distance of Newbury lies Highclere Castle, known to viewers worldwide as the place where the popular TV show Downton Abbey was filmed, and it also doubles up as a splendid stately home. Inside, visitors can expect to see magnificent rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding them, all offering great insight into what living in such grandeur must have been like once upon a time.
Adventures in the Pursuit of Excitement
This county doesn’t disappoint people who are looking for excitement either, as Berkshire has something for everyone in this field. There are numerous outdoor activities that are suitable for both adrenaline junkies and families.
If you dare, try Go Ape at Swinley Forest in Bracknell, where you can go wild on treetop ropes courses and zip wires. Water lovers might like to try kayaking or paddleboarding on the Thames or simply relax during a boat trip. Animal enthusiasts might want to go over to Beale Wildlife Park where they’ll find many different types of creatures set among beautiful riverside scenery. Berkshire offers an exciting range of activities so that no matter what happens during your weekend away, at least some part of it will be filled with thrills!
