If you’re looking for something fun to do as spring arrives, a countryside walk followed by tea and cake is a great idea.
It can involve the whole family, you can make a day out of it, and you don’t have to travel far to find beautiful places.
Basildon Park is a National Trust site located in Lower Basildon, just above Reading in Berkshire, and is a wonderful place to visit, especially in spring.
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Sitting elegantly in 400 acres of historic parks and gardens, the 18th century house was purchased by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the 1950s when it was requisitioned after World War II.
Today, it’s adored by hikers and considered Berkshire’s top “hidden gem” attraction according to Tripadvisor.
There are four different marked routes to choose from, with something for everyone.
One is called The Meadows and Woodlands of Streatley walk where you will see cheerful buttercups, bright daffodils and bands of bluebells along the way.
The three-mile circular walk around meadows and woodland forms the backdrop to the village of Streatley on the west side of the Goring Gap in West Berkshire.
Visitors will encounter one of Britain’s largest areas of rare and endangered chalk grassland, as well as some woodland habitats.
The walk offers panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills, North Wessex Downs and Oxford Valley, as well as glimpses of the River Thames as it crosses the Goring Gap.
If you’re feeling peckish and need a place to take a break, there are plenty of picnic spots to choose from in the park, with clearings in the trees and benches overlooking the valley of the Thames.
There is also a tea room serving hot and cold meals and drinks, sandwiches and light snacks.
Parking, opening hours, cost and whether dogs are allowed
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