Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours. £2 parking charge applies to non-members
Address:
Donnington, West Berkshire, RG14 2LE
The striking twin-towered gatehouse of 14th century Donnington Castle, near Newbury, survives within impressive earthworks. It shows the luxury enjoyed by Sir Richard Abberbury, Donnington's builder, whose private quarters lay within it. Both Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are thought to have stayed here.
The large defences built to protect the castle during the English Civil War still survive.
Read more about Donnington Castle's history.
Heritage Open Days 2024
14th September 9.30am- 4pm
As part of this years Heritage Open Days we will be working in collaboration with St Mary's Church, Shaw cum Donnington. The day will start at the Church where you can hear about the exciting history of Donnington Castle from Dr Steven Brindle and Dr David Peacock. From 1.15pm, there will be a chance to hear the Donnington Heritage Trial and a Q&A with English Heritage and the speakers. From 2.30pm onwards there will be the chance to expore Donnington Castle and the Gatehouse. (own transport required).
The day is free however booking is essential. For more information and the full itinery please visit - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/heritage-open-day-reconstructing-donnington-castle-tickets-944176516377
Refreshments, such as tea, coffee and soft drinks will be available for a donation.
Before You Go
Parking: Car parking is available on site with a £2 charge for non-members payable by text. Parking is free for Members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. If you would prefer to pay in advance of your visit, please visit our parking payment service website.
Please be mindful of our neighbours and do not block access or lanes in the village should our car park be full. If you are local, you might choose to walk or cycle to the castle.
The car park is open from 7am to 7pm daily.
Access: From the car park, the castle is uphill along a fairly steep gravelled path. The castle ruins are based on a grassy area, which is uneven.
Opening Times: The site is open any reasonable time during daylight hours.
Facilities: The market town of Newbury is 2 miles away. There you will find a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, shops and facilities.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Plan a Great Day Out
Make a full day of it by exploring some of our other beautiful and historic sites in the area. Explore the walls of a Roman settlement at Silchester Roman City and then why not take a picnic up to Uffington Castle or Wayland's Smithy to relax and enjoy the views?