Things to do in Donnington

Activities, attractions and tours

Donnington Castle at sunset
Donnington Castle at sunset
Donnington Castle showing landscape views, a sunset and a ruin
Donnington Castle showing heritage elements, a sunset and landscape views
Donnington Castle which includes a sunset, heritage architecture and a ruin
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Highclere Castle

The impressive Highclere Castle is among the country’s most famous castles and stately homes, mainly due to it being the setting for the acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey. Take a step not just back in time, but into a movie set and see its ornate décor and beautiful rolling grounds. The house is the family seat of the Carnavon family.
Learn more
Highclere Castle which includes landscape views and heritage architecture

2. Thames River

London’s long and tumultuous history is written upon the face of the city, and the River Thames has watched it all. A 19th-century Member of Parliament, John Burns, said it best: “The Mississippi is muddy water, but the Thames is liquid history.” In modern-day London, history comes to life on the 70 wharves, which have remained in operation after centuries. As you make your way down the river’s dark waters, you will enjoy a unique snapshot of life in this dynamic but resolutely historical city.
Learn more
London which includes a city, a castle and heritage architecture

3. Oracle

The Oracle is a modern indoor shopping center with a movie theater and a vast array of stores and restaurants. The impressive complex contains some of England’s best-known brands and department stores as well as a range of activities for the whole family. Traverse the halls and corridors of this immense shopping center to pass a cold or rainy day.
Learn more
Oracle featuring a bridge and night scenes

4. Kennet & Avon Canal

The Reading section of the Kennet & Avon Canal offers a delightful waterway running from Newbury to the town center. Boat tours and trips are among the many popular activities on and around the water. Stroll along the banks of the canal, as it winds through the picturesque and serene Berkshire countryside.
Learn more
Kennet & Avon Canal showing a river or creek

5. Donnington Castle

The romantic remains of Donnington Castle make for one of the best examples of 14th-century military architecture in England. Take a step back in time as you explore its twin-towered gatehouse, impressive earthworks and detailed carvings.
Learn more
Donnington Castle featuring heritage architecture, landscape views and a sunset

What to do in Donnington

Popular places to visit

Highclere Castle which includes landscape views and heritage architecture

Highclere Castle

4.5/5(39 reviews)

Visit this stately home which is also the setting of the acclaimed BBC drama Downtown Abbey. Appreciate its grandeur, beauty and expansive grounds.

Highclere Castle
Snowdrops at Welford Park, where the Great British Bake Off is filmed. February 2020

Welford Park

5/5(1 review)

You can find out about the history of Welford with a visit to Welford Park. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Welford Park
Donnington Castle featuring heritage architecture, landscape views and a sunset

Donnington Castle

4/5(3 reviews)

Explore the crumbling remains and towering gatehouse of this once mighty 14th-century castle, which was an integral part of the English Civil War.

Donnington Castle
West Berkshire Museum featuring interior views

West Berkshire Museum

Delve into the history of Newbury and West Berkshire at this delightful regional museum that focuses on the surrounding landscape and the lives of local people.

West Berkshire Museum
Shaw House showing a house and heritage elements

Shaw House

5/5(1 review)

After a tumultuous history and a massive restoration project, this Elizabethan manor is now a center for events and conferences.

Shaw House

Newbury Racecourse

4.5/5(18 reviews)

Enjoy a trip to Newbury Racecourse and popular activities such as golfing in Greenham. Make time to visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Newbury Racecourse

Watermill Theatre

5/5(1 review)

Get tickets for a show at Watermill Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Speen. Savour the lively bars and top-notch restaurants while in town.

Watermill Theatre

Newbury Town Hall

After visiting Newbury Town Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Newbury. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

Newbury Town Hall

Donnington Grove Country Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Newbury at Donnington Grove Country Club. Savour the top-notch restaurants and lively bars while in town.

Donnington Grove Country Club
Newbury showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Newbury

Frequently asked questions

Is Donnington worth visiting?
Offering a blend of golfing and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Donnington. While you're here, head to Highclere Castle, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Donnington?
Start your adventures with a visit to Highclere Castle and Newbury Racecourse. Then, tour other areas of Donnington for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Donnington?
Don't leave without checking out Highclere Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Donnington.
Is three days enough to stay in Donnington?
You can easily tour top sights like Donnington Grove Country Club, Shaw House and Deanwood Park Golf Course with a three-day getaway in Donnington. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and venture to Oxford.
What are some activities to do in Donnington with kids?
Planning what to do in Donnington with kids has never been easier. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Donnington for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of nature, there are many things to do in Donnington for adults.
Are there free things to do in Donnington?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Donnington. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Snelsmore Common Country Park is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their travelling adventures.