The last five or so years has seen a transformation in Newbury. The Berkshire town has benefited from a £250m facelift, with the market square receiving an update and a new shopping enclave finding its way to the centre. Yet, the town has still kept its historic charm while firmly embracing the future. If you’re thinking of moving to Newbury, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’re discovering everything there is to know. From property prices to what there is to do and see.
A brief history of Newbury
Newbury was founded in the 11th century after the Norman conquest. It was designated as a new borough, which is where the ‘new’ aspect of its name derives from. While doubt has been cast over whether it was the actual location for Newbury Castle. The town did have royal connections and was visited several times by King John and Henry III.
Where is Newbury
Newbury is a market town located in the west of Berkshire, lying on the edge of the Berkshire Downs and part of the North Wessex Downs Area of outstanding natural beauty. It’s around 60 miles from London and 45 miles from Reading.
Moving to Newbury
There is a varied mix of housing in Newbury, with many period properties as well as a collection of new-build homes. Popular areas include the west and the south of Newbury, Wash Common and The Tydehams.
Buying in Newbury
The average sold price in Newbury is £434,026, which is higher than the UK national average of £329,547. Expect to pay an average of £688,277 for a detached home, £320,274 for a terraced house and £219,125 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Newbury, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Newbury
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £850 per month in Newbury, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,150 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,325 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Newbury, you can expect to pay slightly lower prices to the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £10, while a cappuccino is about £2.75 and a pint of milk is £0.90p.
Utility bills are also lower than the national average in Newbury. Around £123 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (UK average £155). Broadband is in line with the average at about £33 per month.
Living in Newbury
Open spaces
Newbury is surrounded by sprawling countryside, including the Berkshire Downs and the North Wessex Downs Area of outstanding natural beauty. There are plenty of opportunities to go for hikes, leisurely strolls and walks with your dog.
Transport links
Newbury train station is well connected, with services going to London Paddington in just one hour and Reading in 25 minutes. It’s also located near the M4, offering motorists convenient links to the west and south of the country.
Shopping
Regeneration means Newbury has plenty of shopping areas, including a new enclave from its recent £250 makeover. Parkway Shopping Centre is an outdoor mall with upscale, high-street shops and food outlets. You will also find an abundance of independent and chain favourites found around the town centre.
Eateries
Like any thriving town, you can expect an eclectic choice of eateries if you’re moving to Newbury. Valle D’oro Restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes, while The Newbury is a gastropub set in a townhouse with rustic-chic decor.
Nightlife
Newbury has several nightlife options for anyone looking to party until the early hours. These include the Hive and Zinc, two venues offering a dancefloor, live DJs and bar areas. Head to Cobrizo Lounge for a cosy atmosphere and a cocktail or two for something slightly more low-key.
Art & culture
If you’re looking to soak up local culture in Newbury, visit City Arts Newbury with its exhibitions showcasing local up and coming artists in the area. For those who want to discover the town’s history, the West Berkshire Museum holds various artworks and collections related to Newbury and West Berkshire.
Things to do
Head to the Newbury Racecourse, which hosts one of Great Britain’s 36 annual Group 1 flat races. Nearby Donnington Castle is also a popular landmark – it’s a ruined mediaeval castle that was founded in 1386 by Sir Richard Abberbury the Elder.
The Watermill Theatre is a repertory theatre opened in 1967 in a converted watermill. Its located on the River Lambourn and has regular performances to suit all theatrical tastes.
Five miles south of Newbury, and well worth a visit, is the home of Downton Abbey – Highclere Castle.
What’s not to like?
Since regeneration, it’s hard to find things to dislike about Newbury. However, as some of the works continue, the town still has a few building sites and regular work.
Who lives there?
Newbury has a population of more than 41,000 and a median age of 45.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 39mbps in Newbury, which is lower than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Newbury averages around 85 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Newbury
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Newbury. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: May 26th, 2022
