For a modern town, Bracknell has an interesting history. It now covers the historic area of Easthampstead which was a Bronze Age settlement. Outside the town you can visit Caesar’s camp which is an Iron Age fort. From here on a clear day you can look out over much of Berkshire and Surrey.
Take time to visit Easthampstead Park, the home of Catherine of Aragon whilst she awaited her divorce from Henry VIII. You should also hire a car to follow the Dick Turpin Trail that visits many of the haunts of the infamous highwayman including the Hind’s Head Inn.
Bracknell Mini Guide
What’s so Special About Bracknell?
Bracknell is special because of its long and interesting history. Famous people connected with the town include Dick Turpin and Catherine of Aragon. The town has all the appearances of a modern one which is a dormitory town for London but whilst the name Bracknell has been around in different forms for over a thousand years it’s the fact that it covers the historic area of Easthampstead that makes it important. Here, Iron and Bronze Age people lived, worked and built defences.
How do I get to Bracknell?
Bracknell is easily reached by plane into Heathrow followed by a short train or bus journey. You can hire a car from the airport to give you the flexibility of travelling around at your convenience there. Travelling by train, the town is just off the main Paddington to Penzance rail route and is about 50 minutes from Paddington.
So What Should I see When I get There?
Climb to the top of Caesar’s Camp for a stunning view out over the counties of Surrey and Berkshire. Visit the small museum there which tells you about the camp’s original inhabitants and which displays some of the artefacts found there. For a great day out, head for Easthamptead Park. Whilst now an imposing Victorian mansion, it was once a medieval hunting lodge built by royalty and whilst once the place where Henry VIII’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon was arranged, it was also her home whilst awaiting her divorce!
What can I do Nearby?
You aren’t far from Windsor so to continue your royal travels you could visit Windsor Castle, especially worthwhile now the tower has been reopened to the public. You’ve also got the beauty of the North Downs nearby which are great for walking and cycling.
Useful Links: