
📷 Photo by Neil Theasby · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
The Elephant at the Market is a historic coaching inn positioned right in the centre of Newbury, a market town in Berkshire that serves as an excellent base for exploring this part of England.
While the wider area is known as Cotswolds country, Newbury has its own distinct character that's worth experiencing. The hotel's location puts you within steps of the market square and an easy walk from the Kennet and Avon Canal, where you can watch barges navigate the lock or take a peaceful towpath stroll.
The building itself carries considerable history, closely tied to Newbury's past as an important market town and its significant role during the English Civil War. That historical weight remains woven into the place. From here you can explore Donnington Castle's impressive ruins or catch a performance at the Corn Exchange. The town balances heritage architecture with modern amenities, so you'll find good restaurants and shops conveniently nearby. Train connections are reliable and frequent, making it straightforward to venture further afield to Reading or Hungerford for day trips, or to use Newbury as a springboard for exploring the surrounding countryside. Whether you're drawn to civil war history, canal-side walks, or the everyday rhythms of a functioning market town, there's plenty to occupy your time here.
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Photos

Jaggery · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

O. Taylor · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons