Best Places to Visit in Berkshire

Berkshire is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to combine history, countryside, family entertainment and charming English towns in one trip. Located just west of London, the county is known for its royal connections, historic landmarks, beautiful landscapes and easy access from Reading and surrounding areas.

Whether you are planning a weekend break, looking for places to visit in Berkshire, or searching for interesting things to do in Berkshire, there is plenty to discover. From Windsor Castle and Highclere Castle to LEGOLAND Windsor and peaceful countryside walks, Berkshire offers attractions for couples, families and solo travellers alike.

Getting between these destinations can sometimes be challenging, particularly when you are visiting several places in one day. Reliable local transport can make your trip considerably easier, and a private taxi gives you the flexibility to travel directly between attractions without worrying about parking or unfamiliar routes.

Why Berkshire Should Be on Your Travel List

Berkshire has a little bit of everything.

Its royal heritage makes Windsor a major attraction, while historic estates and castles provide plenty for history enthusiasts to explore. Families have popular destinations such as LEGOLAND Windsor, while walkers can enjoy riverside routes, country parks and the North Wessex Downs.

The county also benefits from its location. Reading provides excellent transport connections, while Heathrow Airport is close enough to make Berkshire convenient for international visitors. This makes it an appealing destination for both planned holidays and spontaneous day trips in Berkshire.

Food and drink are another reason to explore beyond the main attractions. Berkshire's towns and villages offer everything from relaxed cafés and traditional pubs to restaurants and countryside dining.

For visitors who want to explore several locations without relying on multiple trains or buses, private hire in Berkshire can offer a more flexible way to travel.

Must-See Historic Attractions in Berkshire

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is arguably the most recognisable historic attraction in Berkshire. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has been an important royal residence for centuries. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, State Apartments and St George's Chapel while learning more about its royal and architectural history. If a Windsor Castle visit is on your itinerary, allow several hours to explore properly. The surrounding town is also worth discovering, with independent shops, cafés, restaurants and riverside areas. For visitors travelling from Reading or elsewhere in Berkshire, the easiest way to get there can be by taxi. A taxi to Windsor Castle provides direct door-to-door travel without the need to find parking near the town centre.

Eton College and Windsor Town

Located just across the River Thames from Windsor, Eton is famous for its historic college and attractive streets. Combining Eton and Windsor makes sense for a day out because the two destinations are close together. You can explore Windsor Castle, walk through the town and then discover Eton's historic surroundings.

Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is one of the most distinctive historic houses in Berkshire, particularly famous as the principal filming location for Downton Abbey. The castle sits within a large estate near Newbury, surrounded by gardens, parkland and beautiful countryside. Visitors can explore areas of the castle and estate when public opening arrangements allow. Because Highclere is outside the main town centres, planning your journey in advance is important. A taxi provides a convenient option, especially if you are visiting from Reading, Newbury or another part of Berkshire.

Basildon Park

Basildon Park offers another opportunity to experience Berkshire's architectural and natural heritage. The Georgian house is surrounded by landscaped grounds, making it suitable for visitors interested in history, architecture, gardens and peaceful walks. It can also be incorporated into a wider itinerary if you are exploring attractions around Reading and the Thames Valley.

Donnington Castle and Reading Abbey

Near Newbury, the remains of Donnington Castle provide an interesting glimpse into medieval Berkshire. Reading Abbey, meanwhile, offers another important historical site in the heart of Reading. Although the two locations are very different, both can be worthwhile additions to a history-focused itinerary.

Best Family Places to Visit in Berkshire

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort

For families searching for the best places to visit in Berkshire, LEGOLAND Windsor is an obvious choice. The resort features themed rides, attractions, shows and interactive experiences designed primarily for children and families. With so much to see, many visitors dedicate most of a day to the park. Planning transport is particularly important during busy periods. A taxi to LEGOLAND Windsor lets your family travel directly to the resort without dealing with unfamiliar roads or searching for a parking space.

Windsor Great Park and the Long Walk

Windsor Great Park provides an excellent option if your family wants some outdoor time. The Long Walk is one of Windsor's best-known routes and offers impressive views towards Windsor Castle. It is a great way to slow down after visiting the busier attractions.

Beale Wildlife Park

Located near Pangbourne, Beale Wildlife Park combines wildlife experiences, gardens, play areas and outdoor activities. It can be a good choice for families looking for something different from traditional castles and theme parks.

Beautiful Countryside and Outdoor Places in Berkshire

Virginia Water Lake and Windsor Great Park Walks

Virginia Water is a scenic destination for walking, photography and relaxing outdoors. The lake and surrounding woodland provide a peaceful contrast to Windsor's busier tourist areas.

North Wessex Downs

The North Wessex Downs are ideal for visitors who want to experience Berkshire's rural landscape. With rolling hills, open countryside and walking routes, the area is particularly appealing to anyone interested in Berkshire countryside walks and outdoor activities.

Thames Path Walks

The River Thames passes through several attractive parts of Berkshire, providing opportunities for scenic riverside walks. You can combine sections of the Thames Path with visits to towns such as Windsor, Reading or Cookham.

Greenham Common and Kennet & Avon Canal

Near Newbury, Greenham Common offers wide open spaces and walking opportunities. The Kennet & Avon Canal provides another relaxing outdoor experience, particularly for visitors who enjoy waterside scenery and quieter routes.

Pretty Towns and Villages Worth Visiting in Berkshire

Windsor

Windsor is a natural starting point for exploring Berkshire. Beyond the castle, you can enjoy restaurants, shops, riverside walks and the historic atmosphere of the town.

Reading

Reading combines culture, shopping, dining and riverside attractions. Its central location also makes it a useful base for exploring nearby parts of Berkshire.

If you are researching things to do near Reading, consider adding a riverside walk, Reading Abbey and nearby historic attractions to your itinerary.

Newbury

Newbury offers a mixture of history, independent businesses, restaurants and easy access to the surrounding countryside.

It is also an excellent base for exploring Highclere Castle and other West Berkshire attractions.

Hungerford

Hungerford has a quieter character and is ideal for visitors who want to experience a traditional market town atmosphere.

Its independent shops, historic surroundings and nearby countryside make it worth adding to a relaxed itinerary.

Cookham and Bray

Cookham and Bray are attractive Thames-side destinations known for their scenery, village atmosphere and food options.

They are particularly suitable for visitors who want to combine countryside exploration with a relaxed lunch or dinner.

Henley-on-Thames

Although located just outside Berkshire, Henley-on-Thames is close enough to include in a wider Thames Valley itinerary.

Its riverside setting and historic town centre make it a popular nearby option for visitors exploring the area around Windsor and Reading.

Perfect Day Trips in Berkshire: Taxi-Friendly Routes

One of the best ways to experience several attractions is to plan a route rather than visit one destination and return home.

Classic Windsor Day

Start with Windsor Castle, explore Windsor town and Eton, then finish with a walk through Windsor Great Park.

A private taxi can take you between each stop while you enjoy the day without worrying about moving your car or finding another connection.

Royal and History Day

Combine Highclere Castle with Newbury and nearby historical attractions.

This itinerary is particularly suitable for visitors interested in royal history, architecture and Berkshire's countryside.

Family Fun Day

Spend most of the day at LEGOLAND Windsor and then head into Windsor for an evening meal or short walk.

Booking a private taxi means you can plan your pick-up around your family's schedule rather than a fixed public transport timetable.

Countryside and Villages Day

Choose a countryside walk around the North Wessex Downs or Windsor Great Park, then visit a village such as Cookham or Hungerford.

For multi-stop trips, private hire can make the journey considerably simpler.