Out & About June 2017

Perfect picnics June is the month to get out and about and to pack a picnic. HILARY SCOTT susses out some favourite picnic locations, what to make and some handy accessories to take

Donnington Castle, Newbury

Just a mile north of Newbury, the castle is enchanting for children and, as one reviewer noted, should come with a Game of Thrones theme tune. The twin-towered gatehouse of the 14th- century castle was built by Sir Richard Abberbury, whose private quarters lay within it. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are thought to have stayed here. The defences built during the civil war still survive and though there are steep slopes, it’s a lovely picnic spot. Entry is free, there’s a car park attached and dogs on leads are welcome. Northcroft & Goldwell Parks, and Victoria Park, Newbury Northcroft & Goldwell Parks

Victoria Park

River Kennet and Kennet Canal links and cycle paths. Access to both parks is via Northcroft Lane, accessible by car, bike or on foot and it’s just a five-minute walk from Newbury town centre, and 15 minutes from the train station. Both parks are Green Flag award-winners and if your sandwiches get squashed, Northcroft Leisure Centre has Café Vita for alternative refreshments. Victoria Park has plenty to entertain the family with the newly-refurbished tennis courts, the children’s splash area and skateboard park. Greenham Common So many of us just think of it as a protest site – in fact it should be known for its vast size. Greenham Common is one thousand acres of land in total. While it used to house Cruise missiles, it is now a wildlife haven and a great spot for walking and a picnic. Mostly heathland with gorse and heather, there are stunning views to Watership Down and the North Wessex Downs.

People have lived around Greenham Common for more than 10,000 years, so the area is packed with history. And you will not be the first to picnic – the Edwardians in the area loved to take granny in her bathchair and a tablecloth for a real family day out.

are two adjoining parks in Newbury with trees, play area and zip slide, BMX facilities, outdoor sports pitches for football and cricket, woodland walk,

The main control tower car park (RG19 8DB, SU 499 651) opens at 8am, subject to seasonal closing times – please check noticeboards on your arrival. Picture courtesy of: www.greenham-common.org.uk

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