Attractions and Places To See around Newtown - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Newtown include a mix of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The region offers diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and woodlands to river valleys. Visitors can explore preserved historic districts and expansive green spaces. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Newtown
- The most popular attractions is Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, a historical site that features an Iron Age hill fort which has never been excavated. This biological Site of Special Scientific Interest offers sublime views and is a calcareous grassland chalk downland habitat.
- Another must-see spot is Greenham Common Control Tower, a man-made monument. This museum and visitor centre played an important role in both the Cold War and WW2 era, offering panoramic views from its observation deck.
- Visitors also love Watership Down Climb, a challenging trail. This steep climb through picturesque countryside peaks at about a 16% incline, offering a high viewpoint to explore Watership Down.
- Newtown is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient hillforts to significant historical buildings and scenic climbs.
- The attractions around Newtown are appreciated by the komoot community, with 30 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 16, 2026
Watership Down Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
As steep as it is going up, it is going down....enjoy!
Tip by
Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Rowbarge
Highlight • Pub
This pub can be easily reached by bike from Reading avoiding traffic via the canal towpath (which is where NCN Route 4 runs, just beware of some stretches were the path is uneven and needs to be treaded with some caution) and is set in a beautiful spot with a huge beer garden that is great for those Summer barbecues.
In fact, on those warm Summer days I would recommend an easy ride along the canal to treat yourself to a nice Sunday roast and a couple of pints, followed by another easy ride back to town.
The food is nice and warming and reasonably priced, dogs are welcome indoors in the bar area and in the garden and the staff are friendly.
Bike racks to lock your bikes are also present, but they are on the road at the front rather than hidden away at the back, so not the safest of places if you are visiting in the evening and sitting indoors.
Tip by
St Mary's Church, Kingsclere
Highlight • Historical Site
Much of the present building dates from a major rebuilding in the 19th century.
There are many interesting features including its unusual weather vane which is affectionately known locally as The Bedbug. Legend has it that its design was determined by King John, who on one occasion being prevented from reaching his hunting lodge on Cottington Hill by fog had to spend a night in the local inn where his night was badly disturbed by bedbugs!
The church is open every day for visitors, for those wanting a quiet place to sit and think and for those wishing to pray.
Cit. explorechurches.org/church/st-mary-kingsclere
Tip by
Greenham Common Control Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Newtown.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The hillfort on the top of the hill has never been excavated, but the land and ditch are sharply defined and well preserved. This Iron Age fort is roughly rectangular and enclosed seven acres within an embankment and ditch. There are two probable entrances to the east and west. The work seems to have been undertaken by several different labour forces, each working on a section of the defences, but for some reason the task was abandoned and the fort left unfinished. Great to walk along the unfinished ramparts, it's windy and flipping huge!!!
0
0
This is a fantastic country pub located on the banks of the River Kennet near Woolhampton. The pub has existed since 1850, and serves up a range of delicious dishes as well as cask ales. A great place to stop on a long walk.
1
0
This is a wonderful spot with a lovely display of seasonal wildflowers that bloom within the spring and summer months.
1
0
Greenham Common Control Tower is a museum and visitor centre. The control tower has major historical significance, playing an important role in both the Cold War and WW2 era. Visitors can explore the rich history of this building whilst taking in panoramic views at the observation desk. There is a café on site too where you can grab a hot drink or bite to eat.
1
0
St Mary’s church is, as its appearance suggests, Norman (12th century) in origin and is a building of significant historical interest. There has been a church on the site for over 1000 years, the present church being built on the site of a former Saxon minster. Much of the present building dates from a major rebuilding in the 19th century. There are many interesting features including its unusual weather vane which is affectionately known locally as The Bedbug. Legend has it that its design was determined by King John, who on one occasion being prevented from reaching his hunting lodge on Cottington Hill by fog had to spend a night in the local inn where his night was badly disturbed by bedbugs! The church is open every day for visitors, for those wanting a quiet place to sit and think and for those wishing to pray. Cit. https://www.explorechurches.org/church/st-mary-kingsclere
1
0
This is a great little climb. My Garmin has occasionally told me that the gradient goes up to 10%! The long descent to Ashley Warren after the peak of the climb is also good. You just need to be aware of the warning signs for livestock & children, and the fact that it's single track, barely wide enough to pass oncoming traffic.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Newtown?
Newtown offers several historically significant sites. You can explore the ancient Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, a Scheduled Monument with well-preserved ramparts and ditches, though never excavated. Another key site is the Greenham Common Control Tower, which served an important role during both the Cold War and WW2 eras and now functions as a museum and visitor centre. Additionally, St Mary's Church, Kingsclere, is a Norman-era building with over 1000 years of history on its site.
Where can I find scenic views or natural beauty near Newtown?
For breathtaking views and natural landscapes, consider visiting Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, which offers sublime views from its calcareous grassland chalk downland habitat. The Greenham Common Control Tower also provides panoramic views from its observation deck. For a more active experience, the Watership Down Climb leads to a high viewpoint where you can explore the picturesque countryside of Watership Down.
Are there challenging outdoor activities around Newtown?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Watership Down Climb is a notable option. This trail features a steep incline, peaking at about 16%, through beautiful countryside, rewarding you with high viewpoints at the top.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Newtown is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, including moderate and difficult loops like the North Wessex Downs loop. There are also options for easy hikes, such as the Penwood Forest Loop, and gravel biking trails like the Kennet and Avon Canal loop.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Newtown?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Greenham Common Control Tower is a family-friendly museum with a cafe and facilities. St Mary's Church, Kingsclere, is also welcoming to visitors of all ages. For outdoor family fun, consider exploring the easier hiking routes available, such as those found in the easy hikes around Newtown guide.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, you can find options for refreshments. The Greenham Common Control Tower has an on-site cafe where you can grab a hot drink or a bite to eat. For a more substantial meal, The Rowbarge is a friendly country pub located on the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering food and drinks in a beautiful spot with a large beer garden.
What kind of terrain can I expect on trails around Newtown?
The trails around Newtown offer diverse terrain. You'll find challenging climbs like the Watership Down Climb with steep inclines and sometimes rough road surfaces. Other areas, such as Ladle Hill, feature calcareous grassland chalk downland habitats. The nearby cycling and hiking routes traverse woodlands, canal paths, and open countryside, offering a mix of gradients and surfaces.
Are there dog-friendly places to visit?
Yes, The Rowbarge pub is dog-friendly, welcoming dogs indoors in the bar area and in its spacious garden. Many of the outdoor trails and natural areas, such as those around Ladle Hill and Watership Down, are also suitable for walks with dogs, though always check local regulations regarding leads and waste.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Newtown?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance and panoramic views offered by sites like Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort and the Greenham Common Control Tower. The challenging yet rewarding experience of the Watership Down Climb is also highly rated, as are the welcoming atmosphere and good food at local establishments like The Rowbarge.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, The Rowbarge pub is noted as wheelchair accessible. For other sites, it's advisable to check directly with the venue for the most up-to-date accessibility information, especially for historical sites or natural trails which may have uneven terrain.
Can I find routes for gravel biking near Newtown?
Yes, the area around Newtown offers several routes suitable for gravel biking. You can explore options like the Crookham Common Gravel Trail or the Kennet and Avon Canal loop. More details and specific routes can be found in the Gravel biking around Newtown guide.
Most popular attractions around Newtown
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
