Country Pub Near Donnington Castle - The Dundas Arms

Accommodation, Lunch And Dinner Near Donnington Castle - The Dundas Arms In Berkshire

Overlooking the town of Newbury from a gentle rise in the Berkshire countryside, Donnington Castle is a striking reminder of England’s medieval and Civil War past. Although much of the structure is now in ruins, the impressive twin-towered gatehouse still stands tall, offering panoramic views across the Lambourn Valley. Easily reached from Newbury by foot or car, the castle is a popular destination for walkers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to combine heritage with fresh air and countryside charm.

At The Dundas Arms, we offer a quintessential British pub experience paired with a convenient location for your visit to the castle. Enjoy a delightful pub lunch, relishing in the ambience of our traditional inn, before embarking on your journey to explore the stately rooms and manicured grounds that have intrigued millions worldwide. Our warm hospitality and hearty meals make us the perfect stop for those looking to combine culture with cuisine.

Our menu features locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste of the region. Whether you fancy a classic fish and chips or a hearty pie, our offerings cater to all palates. Pair your meal with a pint from Butcombe Brewery, and you’re set for a satisfying pre-castle feast.

A Brief History of Donnington Castle

Donnington Castle was built in 1386 by Sir Richard Abberbury the Elder, who received a licence from King Richard II to fortify his manor house. Originally, the castle featured high curtain walls, corner towers, and a grand twin-towered gatehouse, designed to demonstrate the owner’s wealth and status. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times, eventually becoming associated with notable historical figures such as Thomas Chaucer, son of the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, and later serving as a royal residence.

During the 16th century, Donnington Castle hosted several royal visitors, including Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Queen Elizabeth I, who stayed there in 1568. However, it is best known for its role in the English Civil War. Between 1643 and 1646, it was heavily fortified and famously defended by Sir John Boys, who held the castle for the Royalists under siege by Parliamentary forces. The defenders constructed distinctive star-shaped earthworks around the castle, remnants of which can still be seen today. Eventually, the castle surrendered, and Parliament ordered much of it to be destroyed, leaving only the gatehouse intact.

Visiting Donnington Castle

Donnington Castle is open to visitors year-round during daylight hours. Access to the site is free of charge, and the adjacent car park is open from 7 am to 7 pm daily, with a small parking fee payable via text or online. English Heritage members can park free of charge. The short walk from the car park to the castle is up a gravel path that may be uneven in places, so appropriate footwear is recommended. While there are no toilets or café facilities on site, the views from the castle grounds make it a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on leads.

Though only the gatehouse remains standing, visitors can walk around the outlines of the original curtain walls and towers, which have been restored at ground level to suggest the layout of the medieval structure. The surrounding earthworks from the Civil War period are still visible, adding another layer of interest to this historic site.

Things to Do Nearby

Just below the castle hill lies Donnington Grove, a striking Gothic-style mansion set within parkland, which now operates as a hotel and golf course. For nature lovers, Snelsmore Common is close by and offers heathland and woodland walks rich in wildlife. A short drive away, the Watermill Theatre in Bagnor presents acclaimed live performances in an intimate riverside setting.

The town of Newbury itself, located just a mile and a half south of the castle, is full of character, with independent shops, cafés, the Crofton Beam Engines, and picturesque stretches of the Kennet & Avon Canal, all waiting to be explored. The canal towpath is ideal for a peaceful walk or cycle, and links several nearby attractions and villages, including the charming hamlet of Kintbury, home to The Dundas Arms.

Visitor Tips for Donnington Castle

The best times to visit Donnington Castle are on clear mornings or late afternoons, when the site is quiet and the views are most dramatic. While there are no facilities on site, nearby Newbury has everything you need for refreshments or supplies. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads, and due to the incline and gravel path, the walk up to the castle may not be suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. For those planning a picnic, it’s worth bringing your own food and drink, as there is no on-site café.

A Perfect Blend of History, Views and Village Charm

Whether you’re a history buff, a weekend walker, or simply someone looking to soak up the charm of the Berkshire countryside, Donnington Castle offers a captivating experience. Its storied past, scenic setting, and convenient proximity to Newbury and The Dundas Arms make it a fantastic day out. For a truly rewarding experience, explore the castle in the morning, enjoy a canal-side walk, and finish your day with good food and a warm welcome in Kintbury.

Travelling to The Dundas Arms

The Dundas Arms is approximately  22 minutes from Donnington Castle.

Start on Crofton Road and Church Street to reach High Street in Great Bedwyn (approx. 5 minutes, 1.9 miles).
Merge onto High Street briefly, then continue on Brown’s Lane towards Froxfield (approx. 6 minutes, 2.6 miles).
Follow the A4 to Kintbury (approx. 10 minutes, 6.7 miles).
Turn right onto Mill Bank – The Dundas Arms will be on your right shortly.

If you prefer to travel by public transport, local buses run from Donnington village into Newbury, where you can catch a train directly to Kintbury Station. The journey takes around 10 to 12 minutes, and once you arrive, The Dundas Arms is just a minute’s walk from the platform, ideal for lunch, a drink by the canal, or even an overnight stay.