Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Ashdown Forest
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Ashdown Forest, a tranquil retreat perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, Ashdown Forest offers visitors a serene escape with its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history. This enchanting destination is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.
A brief summary to National Trust - Ashdown
- Upper Lambourn Rd, Hungerford, Lambourn, RG17 8RE, GB
- +441793762209
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during spring to see the vibrant wildflowers in bloom across the heathlands.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife; the forest is home to many rare species.
- Dress in layers; the weather can change quickly in the forest, so be prepared for varying conditions.
- Check out the local visitor center for maps and information on guided walks and family-friendly activities.
- Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds during the weekend.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Reading, take the A329(M) and then merge onto the A34 towards Newbury. Continue on the A34 for about 15 miles. Take the exit for the A338 towards Hungerford. Follow the A338 until you reach Hungerford, then take the A4 and follow signs for Lambourn. Once in Lambourn, turn onto Upper Lambourn Road. The National Trust - Ashdown will be on your left. Parking is available on-site, but be aware that there may be a parking fee depending on the season.
-
Public Transportation
To reach National Trust - Ashdown by public transport, start by taking a train to Hungerford Station from either Reading or Newbury. From Hungerford Station, you can take a local bus to Lambourn. The bus will take approximately 20 minutes. Once you arrive in Lambourn, you may need to walk approximately 1 mile to Upper Lambourn Road where the National Trust - Ashdown is located. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from Hungerford Station to the National Trust - Ashdown. This should take about 15 minutes and will cost approximately £15-£20 depending on traffic. It's advisable to pre-book your taxi or check for availability upon arrival at the station.
Discover more about National Trust - Ashdown
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Wantage Monument
14.3 km
Historic Victorian monument atop an ancient Bronze Age barrow offering scenic views and a tribute to Lord Wantage near Wantage, Oxfordshire.
hotcotswolds.uk
30.5 km
Discover the Cotswolds at the Tourist Information Centre, your comprehensive guide to exploring this breathtaking English countryside.
Things To Do In The Cotswolds
30.5 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, charming villages, and rich history create the perfect getaway for travelers seeking beauty and adventure.
Cotswold Trails
30.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of the Cotswolds with Cotswold Trails, where every journey is an adventure.
Barnsley Park
31.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Barnsley Park, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds perfect for relaxation and exploration.
North Hinksey Conduit House
31.3 km
Discover Oxford’s 17th-century waterworks marvel perched above the city, blending historic engineering with scenic views and rare heritage graffiti.
Douai Abbey
32.5 km
Explore the tranquil grounds and rich heritage of Douai Abbey, a serene Catholic church and historical gem in the heart of the English countryside.
46 Bridge St
32.5 km
Discover the historic charm of 46 Bridge Street in Oxford, a gateway to the city's rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Iffley Lock
32.5 km
Explore the scenic Iffley Lock on the River Thames, a perfect blend of nature and history in tranquil surroundings.
Cirencester Amphitheatre
32.5 km
Step into history at Cirencester Amphitheatre, the largest Roman amphitheatre in the UK, where echoes of ancient times come alive in a beautiful setting.
Abbey Grounds Park
32.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Abbey Grounds Park in Cirencester, a serene escape for all visitors.
Bowood House & Gardens
32.9 km
Discover the enchanting Bowood House & Gardens, where history and nature harmoniously blend in a breathtaking English countryside setting.
Basildon Park
33.0 km
Experience the charm of Basildon Park, an exquisite 18th-century mansion surrounded by stunning gardens and rich history in Reading, England.
Folly Bridge
33.0 km
Historic stone bridge over the Thames in Oxford, blending rich medieval heritage with scenic river views and literary lore.
Cirencester Park
33.1 km
Discover Cirencester Park: A historical gem in the Cotswolds offering expansive gardens, serene woodlands, and breathtaking views for every nature lover.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wayland's Smithy
3.4 km
Explore Wayland's Smithy, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic long barrow steeped in legend, nestled along the ancient Ridgeway in Oxfordshire.
Uffington Castle
4.6 km
Explore the ancient earthworks of Uffington Castle, an Iron Age hillfort overlooking the iconic White Horse and legendary Dragon Hill.
Liddington Hillfort
7.7 km
Explore Liddington Hillfort, Wiltshire’s ancient Iron Age stronghold with panoramic views and layered history from prehistoric times to WWII.
Segsbury Camp
10.6 km
Explore Segsbury Camp, a majestic Iron Age hillfort with ancient earthworks and stunning views atop the Berkshire Downs near Wantage.
Littlecote Roman Villa
11.5 km
Explore the grandeur of Roman Britain at Littlecote Roman Villa, home to stunning mosaics and ancient ruins in a serene Wiltshire estate.
Vale & Downland Museum
12.9 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Oxfordshire’s Vale of White Horse at the engaging and community-focused Vale & Downland Museum in Wantage.
The Brunel Shopping Centre
13.5 km
Swindon's vibrant covered shopping centre with over 60 shops, diverse dining at The Crossing, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Barbury Castle Country Park
14.0 km
Explore a 2,500-year-old Iron Age hillfort with stunning panoramic views and rich history in the scenic North Wessex Downs.
Historic England Archive
14.1 km
Explore England’s rich architectural and archaeological heritage at the Historic England Archive in Swindon’s iconic Engine House.
Designer Outlet Swindon
14.4 km
Historic railway heritage meets premier designer shopping with over 100 stores and 15+ eateries offering up to 60% off in a vibrant, family-friendly setting.
Welford Park
15.4 km
Historic Berkshire estate blending timeless elegance, natural beauty, and exclusive celebrations amid ancient orchards and woodlands.
The Ridgeway
15.8 km
Walk Britain’s oldest road, The Ridgeway, an 87-mile ancient trail rich with history, stunning landscapes, and legendary tales near Wantage.
Groundwell Ridge Roman Site
15.9 km
Explore Groundwell Ridge Roman Site, where ancient ruins and rare artifacts reveal the rich tapestry of Roman and post-Roman life in tranquil Wiltshire.
Orbital Shopping Park
16.3 km
A vibrant and family-friendly retail and leisure park in North Swindon with diverse shops, dining, and ample free parking.
Hackpen White Horse
17.0 km
Discover the unique square-shaped Hackpen White Horse, a chalk hill figure commemorating Queen Victoria’s coronation, set amidst Wiltshire’s scenic downs.
Essential places to dine
The Silks
13.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Wiltshire serving seasonal British fare by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake, blending heritage with community spirit.
Restaurant 56
13.7 km
Elegant British fine dining in a historic 17th-century coaching inn set within tranquil gardens on the edge of the Cotswolds.
Damson Restaurant
19.9 km
An intimate, sustainably driven dining experience in a beautifully transformed historic pub in Winterbourne, Newbury.
The Woodspeen Restaurant
21.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a charming farmhouse with seasonal menus, award-winning wines, and an adjoining cookery school near Newbury.
The White Hart at Fyfield
21.9 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Fyfield blending vaulted halls and oak beams with refined Modern British cuisine and artisan cocktails.
The Ox Barn
22.8 km
Experience modern British countryside cuisine in a beautifully restored 19th-century oxen house nestled in the tranquil Cotswold village of Southrop.
Bunk Inn Pub & Dining
23.1 km
A charming Berkshire country pub blending Mediterranean-inspired dining with classic British hospitality in the heart of Curridge.
GOAT ON THE ROOF
24.0 km
A vibrant British tapas restaurant and sustainable wine bar in Newbury, celebrating local flavours with a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
The Old Boathouse
25.8 km
Charming lakeside gastropub offering hearty British and European dishes with scenic views at Cotswold Water Park.
The Oak Tree Restaurant
26.7 km
Relax and refuel at The Oak Tree Restaurant, a family-friendly dining spot nestled within the scenic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
Bella Luna
27.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Bella Luna, Thatcham’s vibrant Italian restaurant on High Street.
The Bear & Ragged Staff
28.3 km
Historic 16th-century coaching inn in Cumnor offering cozy rooms, local British cuisine, and a welcoming village pub atmosphere near Oxford.
The Pot Kiln
28.4 km
Historic country inn with Basque-inspired tapas, boutique rooms, and tranquil Berkshire countryside charm.
The Catherine Wheel
30.0 km
A family-run pub and inn in Bibury serving fresh local food with warm hospitality in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Gallery Restaurant
30.0 km
Modern European dining in the heart of Bibury, blending local Cotswold produce with elegant country charm at The Swan Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Parade
13.4 km
Swindon's central shopping destination with diverse stores, cafes, and easy access to transport hubs for a complete retail experience.
Primark
13.4 km
Discover unbeatable value fashion for the whole family at Primark Swindon on Regent Street, your go-to for style and savings.
Rowans Closet Arcadia
13.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and personal tarot readings at Rowans Closet Arcadia, a creative boutique in the heart of Swindon.
Something Different Gift Shop
13.5 km
Discover quirky gifts, collectibles, and unique treasures at Something Different Gift Shop in Swindon’s vibrant Brunel Shopping Centre.
Curate
15.8 km
Discover artistically inspired fashion and homewares at Curate, Marlborough’s award-winning independent boutique on High Street.
White Stuff Marlborough
15.9 km
Discover timeless, sustainable fashion and accessories at White Stuff Marlborough on the historic High Street.
The India Shop
16.0 km
Discover vibrant fair trade treasures and authentic Indian craftsmanship in the heart of Marlborough’s charming market town.
The Wiltshire Gift Co
17.3 km
Discover unique gifts and candles in a vibrant garden centre setting with family-friendly attractions and local charm.
THINGS
21.6 km
Explore Cricklade's fabric shop for a world of crafting possibilities with a variety of fabrics, haberdashery, and creative inspiration.
Elements of Avebury
21.6 km
Discover authentic local artistry and spiritual treasures in the heart of Avebury’s ancient stone circle.
Avebury Community Shop
21.7 km
Explore the Avebury Community Shop for unique local products, artisan goods, and a taste of Marlborough's vibrant culture.
The Henge Shop
21.7 km
Explore Celtic and Pagan treasures, spiritual guidance, and artisan crafts in the heart of Avebury Stone Circle.
National Trust shop
21.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic stables building at the heart of Avebury’s ancient village.
No 96 Home and Gifts
23.8 km
Discover unique, upcycled furniture and quirky homeware at No 96 Home and Gifts, Newbury’s charming independent boutique.
Parkway Shopping Centre
23.9 km
A vibrant shopping destination in Newbury blending major brands, boutique stores, and community culture under one roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bell
10.4 km
A charming Georgian coaching inn in Ramsbury offering exquisite farm-to-fork dining in a historic, countryside setting.
Eighteen Bar & Lounge
12.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Swindon’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop Inn
12.7 km
A vibrant Swindon pub famed for its craft ales, hearty contemporary fare, and welcoming community atmosphere.
The Tuppenny
12.8 km
Swindon’s cozy craft beer haven with quirky charm, live music, and a vibrant social scene for all beer lovers and culture seekers.
1101 Cocktail Bar
12.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a relaxed vibe make 1101 Cocktail Bar a standout spot for Swindon nightlife enthusiasts.
Longs Bar
12.8 km
A lively cocktail bar in Swindon's Old Town offering creative drinks, stone-baked pizzas, and a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
The Vault
12.8 km
Swindon's intimate cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, stylish decor, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Fox & Hounds
14.2 km
Quirky garden bar and lively pub in Wroughton offering hearty British fare, live music, and memorable community events.
The Fox at Peasemore
17.8 km
A warm and inviting gastropub in the heart of Peasemore, serving freshly prepared British classics with a modern touch.
Red Lion
21.6 km
A charming traditional pub in Avebury offering hearty food, local stories, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near the ancient stone circles.
Waggon & Horses
23.2 km
Historic 17th-century gastropub with cosy charm, scenic garden views of Silbury Hill, and a celebrated menu featuring local and gluten-free delights.
The Lock Stock & Barrel, Newbury
23.9 km
Charming canal-side pub in Newbury offering seasonal dishes, craft ales, heated terraces, and vibrant live entertainment in a family-friendly setting.
The Crown @ Cerney Wick
24.8 km
A charming Cotswolds pub blending British tradition with authentic Anglo-Indian flavors and warm hospitality.
The Keepers Arms
26.0 km
Charming Cotswold pub and boutique inn offering warm hospitality, excellent food, and a peaceful village retreat near Cirencester.
The White Horse Inn
26.3 km
Traditional Wiltshire pub and guesthouse offering homemade food, local ales, cosy rooms, and a warm countryside welcome in Compton Bassett.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Venue Five-0 Night Club
21.4 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
ReVA Nightclub
32.6 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Kiss Bar
33.1 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
ATIK Oxford
33.1 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
33.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
33.1 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Plush Oxford
33.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
33.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
E11evn's Nightclub
37.2 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
The Face Bar
43.3 km
Experience the pulse of Reading's nightlife at The Face Bar, where live music and vibrant energy create unforgettable memories.
Popworld - Reading
43.8 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
43.9 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
44.0 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Q Club
44.0 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
3sixty
46.3 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
