The Best Cities, Towns & Villages in Berkshire

Home to the iconic Windsor Castle, Windsor combines royal heritage with riverside walks, historic streets and lively shops and cafés. Its location beside the Thames and close to London makes it a popular year-round destination.

Located in the Thames Valley, Reading combines modern shopping, riverside parks and historic landmarks with excellent transport links to London and the South East. It offers a lively yet convenient base close to both countryside and city life.

Known for its racecourse and market-town heritage, Newbury combines historic streets, canals and green spaces with shopping, theatres and countryside nearby. It offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Berkshire.

Famous for horse racing and the annual Royal Ascot event, Ascot combines leafy surroundings with elegant hotels, golf courses and countryside estates. Its location offers easy access to Windsor, London and the Surrey Hills.

Surrounded by parks and woodland, Bracknell combines modern shopping and business districts with easy access to the countryside. Its location near Windsor and the Thames Valley makes it a convenient base in the South East.

Set beside the River Thames, Cookham is a picturesque village known for its riverside walks, historic pubs and artistic heritage. Its peaceful setting and countryside charm make it a popular escape near London.

Known for its antique shops and canal-side setting, Hungerford is a historic market town surrounded by countryside. Its traditional high street, independent businesses and walking routes give it a relaxed rural character.

Located west of London, Slough is a major business and transport hub with easy access to Windsor, Heathrow and the Thames Valley. Its diverse community and strong connections make it a convenient base in the South East.

Set beside the River Thames, Hurley is a historic village known for its riverside pubs, countryside walks and medieval heritage. Its peaceful setting and easy access to nearby towns make it a popular rural retreat.

Set beside the River Thames, Pangbourne is a charming village known for its riverside walks, independent shops and boating culture. Surrounded by countryside, it offers a peaceful setting with easy access to Reading and the Chilterns.

Close to Ascot and Windsor Great Park, Sunninghill is a charming village known for its independent shops, cafés and leafy surroundings. Its relaxed atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular Berkshire retreat.

Surrounded by Berkshire countryside, Thatcham is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its nature reserves, canals and easy access to the North Wessex Downs. It offers a relaxed setting close to Newbury and the Thames Valley.

Known for its historic market-town character, Wokingham combines independent shops, green spaces and modern amenities with easy access to Reading, London and the surrounding countryside. It offers a relaxed yet well-connected setting.

Set on the River Thames, Maidenhead combines riverside walks, green spaces and modern amenities with easy access to Windsor, the Chilterns and London. Its location makes it a popular base in the Thames Valley.