Snelsmore Common Country Park lies 2.5 miles north of Newbury town centre and provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife with its network of woodland walks and heathland.

Keep your eyes peeled for Exmoor and New Forest ponies grazing as you explore the waymarked routes, and look and listen out for some rare bird species too, including nightjar, woodlark and tree pipit. You may even spot an adder, grass snake, common lizard, or slow-worm if you’re eagle-eyed.

If you visit in August or September, you’ll see three types of heather in full flower, and the summer months are ideal for spotting dragonflies. In Spring, the sounds of birdsong fill the air and the woodland is carpeted with beautiful bluebells.

There’s even a popular café on site to buy refreshments after a good dose of fresh air and exercise, and a picnic area if you’d prefer to bring your own.

From Snelsmore Common, the footpath network can take you to the ruins of the magnificent Medieval Donnington Castle, where the spectacular views across Newbury and beyond make every step worthwhile!