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Explore our history...There are ample opportunities to explore West Berkshire's history. With the crossroads of the north to south and east to west routes of southern England here people have used West Berkshire to their advantage for centuries, leaving the area with a rich and colourful heritage.
Donnington Castle, near Newbury
One of the best and most popular historical sites is Donnington Castle, a 14th century building which was also a Royalist stronghold during the Civil Wars. Fighting raged around the castle during the inconclusive Second Battle of Newbury on October 27th 1644, and it was besieged by the Parliamentarians from July 1644 to April 1646, when it was bombarded by cannons. Today you can see all that is left of the three storey gatehouse as well as the impressive star-shaped earthworks constructed in 1643 to fortify the site. The castle's commanding position means that visitors are still attracted by the views, and children enjoy playing amongst the ruins. Shaw House, opened to the public in 2008, following a £6 million restoration project, was also played a key location in the Royalists battleground during the Second Battle. It was once believed that whilst encamped at Shaw House Charles I was shot at in the window of his chamber. A plaque even marks the spot! To find out more about local history visit West Berkshire Museum in Newbury. Located on the Wharf in Newbury it also has an unrivalled local history bookshop. Admission is free but please note that due to current fire safety restrictions there is limited access to the Museum. Please see their website for update information. The Police Museum at Sulhamstead is also well worth a visit, open by appointment only. Exhibits include items from the Great Train Robbery, a Triumph Saint Motorbike and other items relating to the history of the force that covers Berks, Bucks and Oxon.
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