Country Pub Near Newbury – The Crab and Boar

Pub Dining & Country Escapes Near Newbury – The Crab and Boar, Berkshire

Set in the heart of Berkshire, Newbury is a lively and picturesque market town known for its deep-rooted history and thriving local culture. While the town centre boasts a variety of shops, galleries, and attractions, its true charm often lies in the countryside that envelopes it. Tucked away in the village of Chieveley, The Crab and Boar is a welcoming countryside retreat, offering hearty food, characterful rooms, and a tranquil base for discovering the best of Newbury and beyond.

Slow things down and leave the daily grind behind you with a stay in one of our cosy rooms. 

Whether you’re catching up with friends in our cosy bar, enjoying a delicious Sunday roast, or relaxing in our beer garden – The Crab & Boar is a stunning rural retreat for all occasions. The pub is ideally located for some local exploration.

A Short History of Newbury

 

Newbury dates back to the Saxon era and blossomed as a trading hub in medieval times, particularly due to its position along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The town played a crucial part in the English Civil War, witnessing two major battles in the 1640s.

Historic buildings like the Cloth Hall, the dignified Town Hall, and the iconic Clock Tower still watch over the Market Place. St Nicolas Church, built in the early 1500s in striking Perpendicular Gothic style, features dedications to local figures like cloth merchant John Winchcombe, better known as “Jack of Newbury.”

The West Berkshire Museum, housed in the former Cloth Hall, offers free exhibits ranging from archaeology to social history, giving visitors a deep dive into the region’s past.

Things to See and Do in Newbury

 

St Nicolas Church – Admire its architectural beauty and storied memorials.

West Berkshire Museum – Delve into centuries of local stories and traditions.

Victoria Park – A green haven with a boating lake, skate area, and scenic riverside.

Local Shopping & Coffee Spots – Stroll through the Market Place’s boutiques and cafés.

Canal-Side Walks – Walk or cycle beside the peaceful Kennet & Avon Canal.

Nearby Castles – Explore Donnington’s dramatic ruins or the grandeur of Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey).

A Day Out at Newbury Racecourse

 

 

One of the town’s standout attractions, Newbury Racecourse, sits just east of the centre and hosts top-tier racing throughout the year. Whether it’s the prestigious Lockinge Stakes or the historic Coral Gold Cup, the racecourse draws crowds for both the sport and its vibrant atmosphere.

There’s more than racing too—open-air concerts, family events, and relaxed riverside walks all form part of the experience. The on-site Lodge Hotel offers refreshments and accommodation, making it ideal for a day’s escape.

The Watermill Theatre – A Local Cultural Gem

 

Just a stone’s throw from Newbury, the Watermill Theatre in Bagnor provides a truly intimate theatrical experience. Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century mill beside the River Lambourn, the venue holds just over 200 guests, creating a uniquely immersive setting.

The theatre has earned acclaim for its actor-musician-led performances and creative productions, including West End favourites like Sweeney Todd and Amélie. In 2024, it was jointly honoured as Theatre of the Year alongside the National Theatre.

Enjoy a pre-show meal or a drink in the charming gardens before experiencing one of Berkshire’s top cultural spots.

The Kennet and Avon Canal

 

The Kennet and Avon Canal brings a peaceful, meandering waterway right through Newbury’s centre. Once a key route for trade in the 19th century, today it’s a favourite for leisure—ideal for boating, walking, or simply enjoying the slow pace of life.

The canal passes key landmarks like Victoria Park and the heritage-rich West Mills, with towpaths that make for a perfect outing on foot or bike. You’ll spot local wildlife, charming lock bridges, and colourful narrowboats along the way.

Head west and you’ll approach Chieveley, where The Crab and Boar offers a cosy pitstop surrounded by countryside. It’s an ideal base for canal-side adventures or a laid-back afternoon with a glass in hand.

Shopping in Newbury

 

Newbury caters to all tastes when it comes to shopping, offering everything from artisan stalls to high-street favourites.

  • Charter Market – A long-standing market with fresh produce, handmade goods, and local flair every Thursday and Sunday.
  • Parkway Shopping – Open-air retail with well-known names like Next, M&S, and H&M.
  • Kennet Shopping Centre – An indoor space housing popular brands, indie shops, and even a Vue cinema.
  • Independent Stores – Browse the likes of Northbrook Street, Cheap Street and The Arcade for unique gifts and fashion.
  • Newbury Emporium – A quirky collection of vintage items, music, antiques, and more.
  • Regular Markets:
    • Farmers’ Market (First Sunday of each month): Locally produced meats, veg, and bakery favourites.
    • Artisan Market (Last Sunday monthly): Discover handcrafted items, artwork, street food and more.

How to Reach The Crab and Boar from Newbury

 

Escaping Newbury for a countryside break at The Crab and Boar is a simple and scenic journey by car.

Start by heading east on Wharf Road in Newbury, making a few short turns to reach Bear Lane. From there, join the A339 and take the exit for the A4/B4009, signposted for Hungerford, Thatcham, and Hermitage.

Continue onto Western Avenue (A4) and at the next roundabout, take the third exit onto Oxford Road (B4494). Follow the B4494 through several roundabouts, staying on Oxford Road and then Wantage Road. Continue along the B4494 for just over three miles.

Finally, turn right off the B4494 and the Crab & Boar will be on your left shortly after. The journey takes around 12 minutes and covers approximately 5.4 miles.

Whether you’re visiting for a cultural experience, a race day, or a leisurely countryside retreat, The Crab and Boar offers fine food, country comfort, and a warm welcome just outside of Newbury. One of the area’s most characterful and inviting country pubs, it’s the perfect base for exploring everything West Berkshire has to offer.