Donnington Castle Tours

Donnington Castle showing heritage architecture, building ruins and landscape views
Donnington Castle featuring building ruins, a sunset and landscape views
Donnington Castle showing building ruins, a sunset and heritage elements
Donnington Castle showing heritage elements, a ruin and landscape views
Donnington Castle featuring a sunset and heritage architecture


Explore the crumbling remains and towering gatehouse of this once mighty 14th-century castle, which was an integral part of the English Civil War.

The romantic remains of Donnington Castle make for one of the best examples of 14th-century military architecture in England. Take a step back in time as you explore its twin-towered gatehouse, impressive earthworks and detailed carvings.

Try to imagine what the building would have looked like back in the 1380s when its owner, Sir Richard Abberbury, upgraded his manor house into Donnington Castle. Today the most striking remaining feature is the towering gatehouse.

Donnington Castle stands at what was once an important strategic position overlooking the Lambourn Valley, where major thoroughfares crossed. During the English Civil War it played an important role in the campaign of Charles I and was attacked many times. Try to spot the brick patches placed over pitting from cannonball fire.

In 1646, the badly damaged castle was demolished following a vote by parliament. Locals, however, requested that the gatehouse be saved. Interestingly, in the early 15th century, Donnington Castle was owned by Thomas Chaucer, son of the poet Geoffrey Chaucer.

Wander around the castle and pay attention to the flint stonework on the three-level gatehouse and circular towers. Consider the battles which ensued here, but also the peaceful times when it was the home of Sir Richard Abberbury and hosted illustrious visitors such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The green lawns make for a pleasant place to spend a sunny afternoon contemplating the history and beauty of this area.

Donnington Castle is located 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) north of the town of Newbury. There is free parking on site. You can also reach the castle by public bus. The castle and its grounds are free to enter and are open during daylight hours.

Plan a trip to see Donnington Castle

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Three Falcons Hotel
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Byron Hotel London

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Best Lodging Options Near Donnington Castle

The Vineyard

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5 out of 5
Stockcross, Newbury, England
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Regency Park Hotel

Regency Park Hotel

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The Retreat, Elcot Park

The Retreat, Elcot Park

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The Swan at Streatley

The Swan at Streatley

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pentahotel Reading

pentahotel Reading

4 out of 5
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Best Western Reading Calcot Hotel

Best Western Reading Calcot Hotel

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98 Bath Road, Reading, England
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Apollo Hotel

Apollo Hotel

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Aldermaston Roundabout, Basingstoke, England
Apollo Hotel
Milton Hill

Milton Hill

4 out of 5
Milton Hill House, Steventon, Abingdon, England
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Donnington Castle

When visiting Donnington Castle, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including a scenic bike ride and a guided tour of the castle itself. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at a nearby golf club, while horseracing fans can catch an exciting race. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll around the area to soak in the beautiful surroundings. For relaxation, a local spa offers rejuvenating treatments to unwind after a day of exploration.

Food and drinks

If you're near Donnington Castle, don't miss the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, 13 miles away, known for its captivating cocktails and romantic atmosphere. Brightwell Vineyard, 16 miles away, offers delightful wines in a charming setting, perfect for a unique dining experience.

Shopping

In Donnington Castle, you can explore local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, check out Oracle and Broad Street Mall, both 16 miles away, offering a mix of family-friendly stores and entertainment. Bakers Yard, 12 miles away, also features charming shops in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

At Donnington Grove Country Club, enjoy upscale amenities and serene surroundings just 0.4 miles from Donnington Castle. For ultimate relaxation, Nirvana Spa offers rejuvenating body treatments 19 miles away. Experience outdoor sports at Newbury and Crookham Golf Club, located 3 miles from the castle, perfect for golf enthusiasts.

Adventure

For an adventurous time near Donnington Castle, head to Bedlam Paintball in Newbury, located 4 miles away, for thrilling paintball battles. Alternatively, explore the scenic Thames Path hiking trail, 16 miles away, offering beautiful outdoor views. For more paintball excitement, visit Delta Force Paintball Reading, 14 miles away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Watermill Theatre, only 0.9 miles from Donnington Castle, where culture and romance blend. For family fun, head to 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, 4 miles away, offering thrilling arcade adventures. Don't miss The Anvil, 15 miles away, for captivating performances and entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Donnington Castle

If you're visiting Donnington Castle in Newbury, England, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore. The area features historic sites, including the iconic Donnington Castle and Highclere Castle, known for its connection to "Downton Abbey." You can also stroll through the Cathedral Quarter for a cultural experience. Whether you're interested in history or looking for family-friendly activities, Donnington and its surroundings offer something for every type of traveler.

  • Highclere Castle: Just 6 miles from Donnington Castle, Highclere Castle is an architectural gem known for its stunning gardens and rich history. Often associated with the popular series "Downton Abbey," visitors can immerse themselves in its romantic and cultural ambiance while exploring opulent rooms and beautiful grounds.
  • Shaw House: Located only 0.8 miles away, Shaw House is a remarkable historic house that exudes cultural vibes. This beautifully preserved building offers insight into local history and architecture, featuring elegant gardens and guided tours that showcase its historical significance.
  • West Berkshire Museum: Just a mile from Donnington Castle, West Berkshire Museum is a treasure trove of local history. This museum features fascinating exhibits that reflect the region's diverse heritage, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Donnington Castle

Visitor numbers around Donnington Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Donnington Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March43.3°F (6.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.5°F (8.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Donnington Castle

Donnington Castle is a budget-friendly destination with free entry and nearby attractions like the West Berkshire Museum. To save on accommodation, visit between November and January for lower prices, and book about a month in advance. Use Expedia to find discounted last-minute hotel deals and bundle your stay with flights and activities for additional savings. Consider joining Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn rewards for future bookings. By planning wisely, you can enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Donnington Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Donnington Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Donnington Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.