The Best Things To Do in Newbury
Looking for things to do in Newbury town centre? You’re in luck. This handy guide will show you the best places to go - from vegan shopping, vegan eats, and even vegan stays - it’s all here.
Sights to see in Newbury
Newbury is a historic market town that’s just full of natural delights to explore.
Walk the canals
The Kennet & Avon Canal meanders through the market town of Newbury. Boasting a pretty waterside path, at Newbury Wharf, you can see many historic buildings linked to the canal. The canal passes through the leafy Victoria Park, with the traditional English attractions of a boating lake, bandstand and bowls club. Stop off at Northcroft and Goldwell Parks for a picnic or a swim in Northcroft Lido.
Greenham Common
Greenham Common is a historical site that featured famous protests. It’s a stunning location for beautiful walks - it was actually used as a film set for a major battle scene in one of the more recent Star Wars movies!
If the weather isn’t on your side, you can always check out the Greenham Common control tower. With an on-site cafe, you can also learn about the Cold War and see the outstanding view from the observation deck.
The Living Rainforest
The Living Rainforest is a global sustainable living and educational charity project. It’s home to over 850 types of plants and animals, including many rare & endangered species. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a lush tropical rainforest environment – and explore how plants, animals, human needs, economies and cultures are all linked.
A visit reservation system is in place with two timed sessions: 9:30 am -12:30 pm and 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm.
Donnington Castle
Donnington Castle is a striking twin-towered gatehouse from the 14th century. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are thought to have stayed here.
This free historical attraction is open from 7 am to 7 pm every day. There’s car parking available on-site with a £2 charge for non-members payable by text. Parking is free for English Heritage Members.
Where to go shopping
Newbury is a great place to enjoy a day out and partake in a little retail therapy.
Our Vegan Fairs Newbury markets take place regularly in the town - expect to see a wide range of vendors including delicious vegan street food, tasty baked goods and sweet treats, and handmade arts and crafts - as well as local and national charities and outreach stalls.
VARA tattoo studio
This vegan-owned tattoo parlour and piercing studio is the place to go if you’re in the market for a new (vegan-friendly) tattoo or piercing.
Nature’s Corner
This health food shop’s claim to fame is that it’s Newbury’s only independent health store. Head here to stock up on natural remedies, skincare and toiletries, aromatherapy oils, household goods and unusual gifts.
Inn at home
A craft beer, wine, and spirit store in the heart of Newbury is an ideal stop for those who enjoy a tipple (or two!). Open every day in the Spring and Summer, there are plenty of offers available on drinks - such as 10% off any 12 beers.
Check out their vegan range of drinks here.
Isabel's Retro & Vintage Clothing
This lovely shop is one of the UK’s leading online retro boutiques!
If you love vintage fashion, you’ll adore Isabels. Offering personal styling advice from a friendly team, you’ll find items ranging from XS-6XL - with new stock arriving regularly.
The Ugly Duckling
An award-winning pottery painting coffee house situated right on Newbury High Street. A family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere awaits you - where you can grab a coffee and unleash your creativity at the same time.
This delightful find is open every day from 10 am.
Willow & Blooms
Houseplants galore and beautiful blooms are what you get in this fragrant store.
Established in 2012, this small team of talented florists have built an enviable reputation for the supply and delivery of beautiful, fresh and seasonal flowers in and around Newbury and Thatcham.
Vegan Restaurants in Newbury
Although Newbury doesn’t have a fully vegan restaurant, there're many local establishments with a wealth of vegan-friendly places to eat. There is of course plenty of vegan food on offer at our Vegan Fair in Newbury.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Newbury:
Colline’s kitchen - Plenty of vegan options including sweet and savoury. Colline’s is a big supporter of our vegan market - and the feeling is mutual for their delicious food!
The Flowerpot Cafe in Newbury - Find fresh salads and vegan options such as hummus and roasted vegetables with avocado, and much more.
7 Bone - A traditional burger joint isn’t usually on the top of a vegan’s list of places to go - but this place has an insane and extensive vegan menu. Try it out for yourself.
Sushi Maki - This oriental-inspired restaurant has a separate vegan and vegetarian menu with a feast of vegan delights.
The Woodspeen Restaurant - Fine dining at its best. Enjoy wild mushroom risotto with roasted oyster mushrooms, pot-roasted cauliflower, and ruby beetroot terrine.
Eliane of Hungerford is open every day and features a wide variety of vegan menu offerings such as vegan breakfasts with sauteed kale, courgette, and organic baked beans.
Nearby vegan restaurants to explore
Vegivores in Caversham, just a short drive outside of Newbury, is a 100% plant-based restaurant striving to minimise their impact on the environment. It’s well worth the trip if you’re keen to support a 100% vegan business.
Vemillion in Chineham is another 100% vegan cafe, located near Basingstoke. From breakfast through to brunch, lunch, and afternoon cake - this is a relaxing place to enjoy some peace (and something yummy to eat!).
Where to stay in Newbury
We recommend The Elephant at the Market as it caters to vegans and is incredibly close to our vegan market in the town. This beautiful hotel is right on the Market Place, serving up delicious food and crafted drinks. With 14 beautiful and stylish bedrooms, this is a place perfect for a weekend retreat in Newbury.
Planning a trip to Newbury
With its idyllic location at the crossroads of Southern England, travelling to Newbury couldn’t be easier by road, rail, or even water. You can jump on a train at London Paddington and arrive in the heart of this beautiful market town less than an hour later. Or perhaps choose to arrive here by car - a little more than an hour after crossing the Severn Bridge from Wales. Newbury is also just a few hours south of Manchester and and 2 hours south of Birmingham
Check out our upcoming events page and get involved for a whole family fun day out in Newbury. We run our Vegan Fairs throughout the South West of England and Wales - find our full upcoming vegan events here.