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Nestled in the picturesque landscape of West Berkshire, The Fox & Hounds warmly invites you to experience the quintessential charm of an English country pub, just a stone’s throw away from the magnificent Highclere Castle. Known worldwide as the primary filming location for the acclaimed television series “Downton Abbey,” Highclere Castle attracts visitors with its impressive architectural beauty and rich history. This iconic castle, used as the backdrop for the Crawley family’s estate, offers tourists a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. After a day of exploration, you’re welcome to unwind with a delightful meal or drink at The Fox & Hounds.
Located just a short drive from this iconic filming location, The Fox & Hounds in Berkshire provides the perfect setting for a scrumptious pub lunch after touring the castle’s lavish grounds and fascinating interiors. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of the series or a history enthusiast drawn by the castle’s storied past, our pub offers a cosy retreat to savour delicious local flavours as you reflect on your Highclere adventures.
The Fox & Hounds is a beautifully refurbished pub in Theale, near Reading, offering delicious food, award-winning beer, and a very warm welcome.
On the menu, our focus is locally sourced produce, seasonal ingredients and exciting takes on pub classics, perfectly paired with our range of award-winning Butcombe beers and cocktail menu behind the bar.
Highclere Castle boasts a rich history, standing as the ancestral seat of the Earls of Carnarvon. The current 8th Earl and Countess remain actively involved in managing the estate, opening their home to the public for specific periods throughout the year. The castle’s architecture and grounds reflect centuries of English heritage, evolving through significant historical milestones and noteworthy restorations.
Highclere Castle gained global fame as the setting for “Downton Abbey,” where its grand exterior and opulent interiors depicted the fictitious Crawley family’s home. The series brilliantly captured the essence of life in the early 20th century, bringing millions of viewers into the social dynamics and historical events surrounding the aristocratic family and their staff. The castle’s majestic presence and historical authenticity offered a perfect canvas for the show’s elaborate storytelling.
Home to the Earls of Carnarvon for generations, the castle is not just a filming location but a lived-in estate continuously cared for by its noble residents. The 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon are devoted custodians, overseeing the maintenance of the castle and engaging with visitors through public tours and educational activities, passionately preserving the estate’s legacy for future generations.
Inside Highclere Castle lies a captivating Egyptian exhibition, a nod to the 5th Earl of Carnarvon’s role in the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb alongside Howard Carter in 1922. The exhibition showcases remarkable artefacts and meticulous replicas, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the fascinating world of ancient Egypt from the comfort of this grand English manor.
The castle’s current design stems from the visionary work of Sir Charles Barry, who during the 1840s remodelled Highclere in the magnificent Jacobethan style. Known for also designing the iconic Houses of Parliament in London, Barry imbued the castle with a blend of classical symmetry and Gothic grandeur, enhancing its stature as one of England’s architectural treasures.
Conveniently located near junction 12 of the M4, The Fox & Hounds is roughly a 30-minute drive from Highclere Castle. To reach us from Highclere Castle, head north on the A34,and join the M4 motorway at junction 13, heading towards Oxford. Exit at junction 12 and head towards Theale.
From here:
At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Bath Rd/A4
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Waterside Drive
At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit
Continue onto Waterside Drive
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Brunel Road
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Station Road
Continue onto Hangar Road
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Deans Copse Road and the pub will be on your left.
To remind our customers how much we appreciate them, we created the Butcombe Loyalty Club.
Turn points into pounds, enjoy 25% off food every Butcombe Wednesday, and receive extra rewards throughout the year.
To sign up, check your balance and more, head to our Loyalty Members area.
Thank you for your booking, we look forward to welcoming you.
