Beautiful and history-rich, the Royal County of Berkshire is famed for its wealth of National Trust properties that beckon for exploration. From the sprawling verdure of country parks to the grandeur of regal estates, they offer something to all generations looking to walk through manicured landscapes and retrace the steps of time. Best of all? They’re free to all National Trust members.
Below are some of the top 5 National Trust properties in Berkshire to begin your journey of discovery.
Set within a stunning 400-acre estate in Berkshire, Basildon Park comprises a picture-perfect jigsaw of parkland and gardens. At the centre, an 18th century Palladian-style house takes pride of place, having been lovingly restored in the 1950s.
The perfect place to explore throughout the year, its verdant estate is woven with pleasure grounds, suntrap terraces, children’s play areas and secret gardens. Meanwhile, inside the house, a Neoclassical Hall marks the gateway to a number of intriguing rooms, each filled with fine furnishings and period Master artworks.
Spend time exploring at your leisure, before stopping off for a bite to eat in the house’s tearoom overlooking the grounds.
On the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire border in Taplow, Cliveden is a magical National Trust-run estate home to sweeping gardens and stunning woodlands. Perched alongside the famous River Thames, its 80 acres of formal gardens and 300 acres of woodlands and riverside greenery afford an abundance of space to walk, talk and absorb nature’s healing balm.
In spring, the seasonal blooms are particularly enchanting with bright pops of colour at every turn, while in autumn, the fiery blaze of auburn leaves is a real sight to behold. On certain days of the year, you can also step inside the privately managed Cliveden House and uncover select areas, including where esteemed guests such as Winston Churchill once wined and dined.
The Chase is a 143-acre nature reserve close to the village of Woolton Hill on the border between Hampshire and Berkshire. Composed of woodland, meadows and heathland and intertwined with a network of trails, it is one of the best destinations across both counties for leg-pumping walks and slow, leisurely strolls.
Head out into the fresh country air and savour the tranquillity of this idyllic setting. Walk highlights include silvery streams, a mirror-topped lake, and the chance to see some of the nature reserve’s resident horned cattle. Just remember to wear a decent pair of walking shoes to manage the sometimes-uneven paths and pack some pocket sweets to keep you fuelled.
Ashdown House is a striking 17th century house located in a peaceful valley on the Berkshire Downs. Though technically found just within the county of Oxfordshire, its address was listed in Berkshire up until 1974, so we’ll overlook that minor detail. To see the house for yourself, venture over and enjoy all there is to see and do.
A house built for royalty, it exudes a fairy-tale air that has to be seen to be truly appreciated. Whilst there, climb the staircase of the house and book onto a rooftop tour to admire far-reaching views across the surrounding landscapes – views that have remained much the same over the last 300 years.
Outside, take time to wander the grounds and surrounding woodland, following the designated tree trail and keeping your eyes peeled for the three herds of deer who live on the estate.
Showcasing the remains of Bronze Age burial grounds, Maidenhead and Cookham Commons have a history going back thousands of years. Long at the centre of the local community, the lands here have been grazed, worked and explored by generation upon generation. Today, the commons’ 843 acres promise a natural kaleidoscope of places to roam, from picturesque riverbanks to wildflower meadows to tangled woodland.
One of the best places to visit throughout the year, the grasslands and gently rolling hills are as inviting for summer picnics under beaming sunshine as crisp winter walks over frost-tinged trails. Beautifully unspoilt, you won’t find many amenities along the way, but this all adds to the appeal of this National Trust-managed sanctuary.
If you are looking for somewhere special to relax and unwind after a day visiting one of the top 5 National Trust properties in Berkshire, you will find a warm welcome at Donnington Grove. A 3 star country house in Newbury, we are set within 500 acres of jaw-dropping grounds and boast stunning views over gorgeous countryside. The perfect place to retreat throughout the year, we offer a range of wonderful rooms for the most sumptuous stays.
Learn about our fascinating history, including the hotel’s former Regency socialite owner, and make the most of our luxurious facilities for an escape that is unforgettable. With fabulous rooms, an 18-hole Championship golf course, beauty treatment rooms, lots of outside space to explore, and an array of activities to take part in (if you wish to), you can treat yourself to the most relaxing stay imaginable. We look forward to welcoming you.
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