This beautiful Palladian mansion was built in 1776-83. The interior is notable for its original delicate plasterwork and elegant staircase, as well as the unusual Octagon Room. The house fell on hard times early in the last century but was rescued and restored by Lord and Lady Iliffe, who filled it with fine pictures and furniture. The early 19th-century pleasure gardens are currently being restored and there are way-marked trails through the parkland. Garden: There are small pleasure gardens gracing this Palladian mansion, but be sure to leave time in your visit to stroll some of the woodland paths through these 400 acres of grounds.
Lower Basildon,
Reading,
Berkshire,
England, RG8 9NR
Former Georgian house, home of the Earls of Caernarvon, remade by Charles Barry in exotic (or horrifying, depending upon your tastes) Victorian Gothic style. Ornate, opulent state rooms. Exhibit of Egyptian artefacts (the fifth Earl was an enthusiastic backer of Howard Carter, who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamen). Garden: Huge cedars grace the parklands designed by 'Capability Brown'. Walled gardens, Victorian yew walks, orangery and fernery.
Highclere Park,
Newbury,
Berkshire,
England, RG20 9RN
Parkland and gardens surrounding an elegant manor. The gardens are best known for the Snowdrop Woods, with early flowering snowdrops in bloom through February and early March. Limited opening; see website.
Welford,
Newbury,
Berkshire,
England, RG20 8HU
Located 5 minutes walk from Reading town centres restaurants, shops and bars. All of our rooms have ensuites, 21 televisions with digibox, hair dryers, direct dial telephones and internet access and generous welcome trays with snacks. Some rooms have mini fridges. Choice of either a full English breakfast or a … more >>
Whether on business or simply visiting the area, Donnington House Hotel offers high standards of accommodation at competitive rates. Centrally located close to Reading town centre with easy access to many of Readings attractions and business parks. more >>
