Berkshire Areas (6)

Bracknell Forest

Reading

Slough

Windsor and Maidenhead

Wokingham

West Berkshire

Click above on Berkshire Areas to know more.

About - Berkshire

Berkshire, a historic and ceremonial county in South East England, has a rich history and a number of notable features. Here are  key facts about Berkshire:

1. Royal Connections: Berkshire is home to Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British monarch. The castle has been a royal residence for over 900 years and is the largest inhabited castle in the world.

2. County Town: The historic county town of Berkshire is Abingdon, though since the 1974 boundary changes, Reading has become the administrative center and is often considered the county town.

3. Reading: Reading is the largest town in Berkshire and a major commercial center. It is known for its annual Reading Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in the UK.

4. Eton College: Eton College, located near Windsor, is one of the most prestigious and well-known public schools in the world. It was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI.

5. Thames River: The River Thames flows through Berkshire, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities. Towns like Reading, Maidenhead, and Windsor are situated along its banks.

6. White Horse Hill: Located in the Vale of White Horse, this chalk hill figure is a significant prehistoric monument. The figure is believed to date back to the Bronze Age.

7. Historic Sites: Berkshire is rich in history with sites like the Roman ruins at Silchester and the medieval ruins of Reading Abbey, founded by King Henry I in 1121.

8. Newbury Racecourse: One of the UK's leading horse racing venues, Newbury Racecourse hosts numerous prestigious races throughout the year, including the Hennessy Gold Cup.

9. Tech Hub: Berkshire, particularly Reading, is known as part of the UK's "Silicon Valley" due to its high concentration of technology companies, including the UK headquarters of companies like Microsoft and Oracle.

10. Green Spaces: Berkshire boasts a number of beautiful parks and open spaces, including Windsor Great Park, a large deer park and garden that dates back to the 13th century.

11. Population: Berkshire has a diverse population with a mix of urban and rural areas. As of recent estimates, the population of Berkshire is over 900,000.

12. Transport Links: Berkshire benefits from excellent transport links, including the M4 motorway, which runs east-west through the county, and strong rail connections to London, making it a popular commuter area.

These facts highlight Berkshire's blend of historical significance, cultural heritage, and modern-day importance.

Berkshire Map