Donnington Castle – Rack Marsh Nature Reserve loop from Newbury Racecourse

Hiking trails & Routes

Donnington Castle – Rack Marsh Nature Reserve loop from Newbury Racecourse

Hard

5.0

(1)

hikers

Donnington Castle – Rack Marsh Nature Reserve loop from Newbury Racecourse

05:56

22.6km

180m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 18, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

North Wessex Downs National Landscape

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

1.84 km

Kennet and Avon Canal in Newbury

Highlight • Trail

Newbury is a vibrant and bustling town located on the banks of the River Kennett in Hampshire. The town is known for its historic buildings, quaint shops, and busy markets, …

Tip by

3.81 km

The Castle Pub Parking

Highlight • Parking

park opposite the pub, then pop in and buy something. it's nice to be nice

Tip by

4.57 km

Donnington Castle

Highlight • Parking

This castle is the most important castle for Newbury

Tip by

4.94 km

Castle Wood

Forest

5.69 km

Rack Marsh Nature Reserve

Highlight • Trail

Discover this beautiful wet nature reserve home to an array of fantastic birdlife. In the spring months, you will find a display of wetland wildflowers.

Tip by

6.05 km

Bench With a View of the Countryside

Highlight • Viewpoint

8.72 km

Bluebell Woods at Snelsmore Common

Highlight • Natural

Explore heathland, wet mires and woodland on this wonderful section of walking through Snelsmore Common. Due to its range of habitats, the common is home to some rare bird species such as nightjar, woodlark and tree pipit.

Tip by

9.11 km

Bluebell Woods

Highlight • Forest

11.5 km

Winterbourne Arms

Highlight • Pub

The Winterbourne Arms is a pup-friendly pub with a very warm and friendly atmosphere. The pub serves up delicious food over lunch and dinner Monday to Friday as well as a wide range of drinks.

Tip by

22.6 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types