The River Thames flows through Berkshire, providing a scenic waterway that meanders through the county. The Thames offers opportunities for boating, riverside walks, and picturesque views. The river is flanked by lush meadows and is an integral part of Berkshire’s landscape.
The western part of Berkshire is part of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This undulating landscape features rolling hills, dense beech woodlands, and charming villages. The Chiltern Hills offer breathtaking views, picturesque trails, and are a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts. In the eastern part of the county, you will find the Berkshire Downs, a range of low-lying chalk hills. These downs provide sweeping vistas, open grasslands, and ancient sites like the Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric hill figure. The downs are ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the region’s rich history.
Throughout Berkshire, you’ll find idyllic rural landscapes, including farmland, meadows, and quaint villages. The countryside is dotted with historic churches, manor houses, and charming pubs. These areas provide a peaceful retreat and showcase the county’s rural heritage.
Best places to live in Berkshire
- Windsor: Known for its stunning Windsor Castle and picturesque riverside location, Windsor offers a blend of history, charm, and excellent amenities. It has great schools, beautiful parks, and a vibrant town center.
- Ascot: Famous for its world-renowned Ascot Racecourse, Ascot is an affluent town with a thriving community. It boasts elegant properties, prestigious schools, and easy access to the countryside.
- Henley-on-Thames: Located on the banks of the River Thames, Henley-on-Thames is a delightful market town. It offers a relaxed lifestyle, scenic beauty, and a rich cultural heritage. The town hosts the renowned Henley Royal Regatta.
- Cookham: Nestled along the River Thames, Cookham is a picturesque village with a tranquil atmosphere. It has a thriving artistic community, charming pubs, and lovely riverside walks. It’s also conveniently located near Maidenhead.
- Bray: Renowned for its culinary delights, Bray is a small village with big gastronomic aspirations. It houses several Michelin-starred restaurants, including The Fat Duck and The Waterside Inn. It’s a food lover’s paradise.
- Newbury: Situated in the heart of West Berkshire, Newbury is a market town with a rich history and excellent amenities. It offers a mix of modern developments, historic buildings, shopping centers, and easy access to the countryside.
- Wokingham: Known for its strong sense of community, Wokingham is a historic market town with a bustling atmosphere. It has great schools, a wide range of shops, regular markets, and beautiful parks.
- Caversham: Located on the northern bank of the River Thames, Caversham is a suburb of Reading. It combines the benefits of a peaceful riverside setting with easy access to Reading’s vibrant town center and excellent transport links.
- Pangbourne: Situated on the River Thames, Pangbourne is a charming village surrounded by picturesque countryside. It has a friendly community, excellent schools, and a range of amenities, including quaint shops and riverside pubs.
- Sonning: Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, Sonning is a quintessential English village with thatched cottages and a historic bridge. It offers a peaceful environment, beautiful riverside walks, and easy access to Reading.
The best schools in Berkshire (not official rankings)
- Reading School – Reading
- Kendrick School – Reading
- The Abbey School – Reading
- The Windsor Boys’ School – Windsor
- St. Mary’s School Ascot – Ascot
- Wellington College – Crowthorne
- The Marist School – Ascot
- The Holt School – Wokingham
- The Windsor Girls’ School – Windsor
- Lambrook School – Winkfield Row