Country Pub Near Newbury – The Bourne Valley Inn

Food, Drink & Country Escapes Near Newbury – The Bourne Valley Inn, Hampshire

Tucked away in the beautiful Berkshire-Hampshire borderlands, Newbury is a vibrant market town brimming with history and countryside charm. Beyond its bustling high street and cultural attractions lies a landscape of winding lanes and traditional country inns. One such gem is The Bourne Valley Inn, a cosy, countryside pub nestled in St Mary Bourne—an ideal stopover or getaway for visitors keen to explore Newbury and its rural surroundings.

If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore this stunning part of the world, The Bourne Valley Inn is a traditional, welcoming pub and inn with extremely comfortable beds that is near many of the sights and landmarks of Hampshire.

Our delicious meals are created with fresh, seasonal produce, and we have plenty of delicious Butcombe beer on tap behind the bar.

A Glimpse into Newbury’s Past

With roots going back to the Saxons, Newbury flourished during medieval times as a trading hub beside the Kennet and Avon Canal. The town’s strategic position saw it at the heart of two pivotal battles during the English Civil War. Today, its Market Place is framed by architectural landmarks like the historic Cloth Hall, the Town Hall, and the landmark Clock Tower. St Nicolas Church, an elegant example of Gothic design from the early 1500s, is home to several notable memorials, including one to “Jack of Newbury,” a prosperous local clothier.
 To delve deeper, the West Berkshire Museum, housed in a former 17th-century Cloth Hall, offers free exhibitions celebrating everything from prehistoric geology to Newbury’s wartime stories.

What to See and Do Around Newbury
  • St Nicolas Church – A fine display of late medieval architecture with fascinating local heritage.
  • West Berkshire Museum – A free, engaging attraction with exhibits covering local history.
  • Victoria Park – A scenic green retreat complete with lake, gardens, and riverside walks.
  • Boutique Shopping & Cafés – Independent retailers and artisan coffee spots line the town centre.
  • Kennet & Avon Canal – Ideal for peaceful strolls, waterside cycling, or boat watching.

Nearby Historic Sites – Visit the ruins of Donnington Castle or tour the stately Highclere Castle, known globally as Downton Abbey.

Newbury Racecourse – A Premier Sporting Day Out

Situated just outside the town centre, Newbury Racecourse is a major draw in the region, hosting around 30 race days annually, including highlights like the Lockinge Stakes and Coral Gold Cup. The venue also puts on live music and community events throughout the year.


 Beyond the grandstand, visitors can enjoy landscaped gardens, river views and on-site dining at The Lodge. Whether you’re passionate about racing or just enjoy the buzz of a big day out, it’s a quintessential part of the Newbury experience.

The Watermill Theatre – A Hidden Cultural Treasure

Just a short drive from town in the peaceful village of Bagnor lies the Watermill Theatre, an intimate performance space housed in a converted watermill along the River Lambourn. With only around 200 seats, it delivers immersive and innovative productions that regularly transfer to the West End.
 The theatre has earned national praise for its unique actor-musician productions, and in 2024 was named joint Theatre of the Year alongside the National Theatre. With a bar, gardens, and pre-theatre dining on site, it offers the perfect mix of culture and countryside calm.

The Kennet and Avon Canal

Newbury’s canal offers a peaceful counterpoint to its busy centre. Once used for transporting goods in the early 19th century, the Kennet and Avon Canal now provides a haven for wildlife and people alike. Meandering through town and out into the countryside, it’s ideal for scenic walks, paddleboarding, or simply taking in the sights of brightly painted narrowboats.


 The canal passes through key areas such as Victoria Park and West Mills, offering easy access to nature for both visitors and locals. From Newbury, the waterway leads westward towards the Vale of Pewsey, or east through Reading and on to the Thames. A perfect way to reconnect with the slower pace of life.

Shopping in Newbury

Newbury offers a blend of traditional markets, high street staples, and quirky independents, making it a great place to browse and buy.

  • Charter Market – Historic open-air market held on Thursdays and Sundays, offering local produce and handmade items.
  • Parkway Shopping – A contemporary shopping destination with popular chains like M&S, H&M, and FatFace.
  • Kennet Shopping Centre – Indoor complex with mainstream shops, small businesses, and a Vue cinema.
  • Independent Retailers – Find hidden treasures on Northbrook Street, The Arcade, and Cheap Street.
  • The Emporium – A haven for vintage finds, antiques, vinyl, and collectables.
  • Monthly Markets:
    • Farmers’ Market: First Sunday of every month—fresh, local food and drink.
    • Artisan Market: Last Sunday, monthly—arts, crafts, and quality street food on Northbrook Street.

 

Travelling from Newbury to The Bourne Valley Inn

Reaching The Bourne Valley Inn from Newbury is a scenic journey that quickly transports you from town to tranquil countryside.

Begin your journey in Newbury by heading east along Wharf Road, making a few quick turns to reach Bear Lane. From there, continue onto the A339, taking the third exit at the roundabout onto Winchcombe Road and staying on the A339 through a series of roundabouts.

At Swan Roundabout, take the second exit onto the B4640, then follow signs for the A34 slip road towards Winchester and Andover. Merge onto the A34 and continue for nearly five miles.

Take the exit for Whitchurch, following the slip road and continuing along Larks Barrow Hill. Turn right onto Harroway and drive for just over two miles before turning right onto the B3048. The Bourne Valley Inn will be on your left shortly after. The total journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes and covers approximately 11 miles.