‘Tis officially the season for jolly jaunts and merry mini-breaks. And if you like your day-trip destinations to look like they’ve been plucked directly from the front of a Christmas card; we’ve found a quaint and quintessential village, just outside of Londonthat well and truly fits the brief.
The medieval and oh-so magical village of Pangbourne is perched proudly on the banks of the River Thames. Just a hop, skip, and a speedy train ride from London; it’s the picture-perfect place to spend the day if you fancy escaping the chaos of the capital this winter. So, wrap up warm, folks – because we’re off on another adventure.
Pangbourne, Berkshire
Pangbourne is located in Berkshire, boasting a rather ravishing riverside setting. It’s filled to the brim with charm and characterand its beauty has certainly been well-documented over the years. Esteemed author, Kenneth Grahemeresided in Pangbourne for the last eight years of his life. And it’s believed that the idyllic Thameside spot inspired the illustrations for his beloved book, The Wind in the Willows. Pangbourne’s claims to fame don’t end there, though. Jimmy Page owned a cottage in Pangbourne, and it’s thought to be in that very cottage that Led Zeppelin was formed and rehearsed for their debut album.
Things to do in Pangbourne
The scenic spot is home to plenty of shops and eateries, as well as a plethora of jaw-droppingly gorgeous buildings. to gawp at. The village boasts a historic toll bridge that leads to the village of Whitchurch on Thamesand there’s also the beautiful Pangbourne Meadow to explore. Pangbourne is also just a half an hour walk from Basildon Park; a green space and National Trust property that’s no stranger to the big screen, having starred in the legendary likes of Bridgerton, Downton Abbeyand Pride and Prejudice.
Recently named one of the UK’s best places to live by the trusty team over at Muddy Stilettos; Pangbourne is a rather sought-after spot – and it’s not too hard to see why. That being said, it will set you back a pretty hefty sum if you wish to be one of the lucky ones that call Pangbourne home. The average house price is £770,000so snapping up my own gaff there might be off the cards for now. But a little bit of window shopping never hurt anyone, hey?
Getting to Pangbourne from London
Pangbourne is within very easy reach of the capital city, taking around hour by car and even less on public transport. Londoners can hop on a direct train from Paddington to Pangborneand the speedy service only takes around 45 minutes.
