All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.
Ascot
Days out in Berkshire with kids
The English countryside is full of opportunities for families to get active, explore and create lasting memories. Located in the heart of Berkshire, Coworth Park is just a short drive from Ascot. Close by are a whole range of child-friendly activities and attractions, from wildlife parks and castles to theme parks and racecourses. Follow this two-day itinerary to discover the best of Ascot, Berkshire and beyond.
Day one
Start the day with a 10-minute drive from Coworth Park to Ascot Racecourse.
T: +44 8443 463 000 | High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JX
Ascot Racecourse
The town of Ascot is most famous for its racecourse, which has seen the world’s greatest racehorses and riders compete on its track. An exhilarating experience for the whole family, there are several racing weekends throughout the year. Visit one of the popular ‘family racedays’ to enjoy child-friendly entertainment, rides and activities.
Next, take a 15-minute drive to Windsor Great Park.
T: +44 1753 860 222 | For The Savill Garden: Wick Lane, Windsor, TW20 0UJ
Windsor Great Park
One of the most beautiful parks in this part of England, Windsor Great Park offers 4,800 acres of rolling countryside, forest trails, lakes, gardens and children’s playgrounds. With its colourful flower displays, The Savill Garden is a highlight for families, as is the Obelisk Lawn play area, which is packed with activities for pre-school-age children.
The next destination is just a 15-minute drive away.
T: +44 8712 222 001 | Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Legoland Windsor
A theme park dedicated to children, Legoland Windsor captures the magic and imagination of the Lego world with over 55 themed rides, interactive attractions and shows for young explorers. From panning for gold at Pirate Gold Wash to sailing down the river at Vikings’ River Splash, there’s plenty to keep little guests entertained.
Take a 10-minute drive to reach the next location, Windsor Castle.
T: +44 3031 237 304 | Windsor, SL4 1NJ
Windsor Castle
Teach your children about the history of the British Royal Family in a fun and interactive way at the 11th century Windsor Castle. Families can take advantage of free, action-packed activity trails and multimedia tours that take visitors on a journey through the castle and highlights such as Henry VII’s armour and Queen Mary’s Doll’s House. Visit on a Saturday to take part in special family activities.
Then, take a 25-minute drive out of Windsor to Thorpe Park.
T: +44 8716 631 673 | Staines Road, Chertsey, KT16 8PZ
Thorpe Park
One of the UK’s best-loved theme parks, Thorpe Park has a huge number of rides for all the family. From adult attractions like the famous ‘SAW – The Ride’, and teen favourites such as rapids, to child-friendly 4D experiences and rides including log flumes, dodgems, teacups and swinging ships, there’s something to entertain all age groups.
To get back to the hotel, it’s a 15-minute drive to Coworth Park.
Day two
Begin the second day of the itinerary with a 20-minute drive to your first destination.
T: +44 1344 354 400 | Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW
The Look Out Discovery Centre
Offering ‘edutainment’ at its best, The Look Out Discovery Centre is filled with exciting science and nature-themed games and activities to inspire a child’s imagination. The space hosts over 90 activities ranging from puzzles to interactive exhibits. Outside, there are also three excellent playgrounds and a series of forest walking and cycling trails. If travelling with toddlers, keep an eye out for the centre’s special toddler days.
Take a 15-minute drive through Bracknell to the Ski Slope.
T: +44 1344 789 002 | John Nike Leisuresport Complex, John Nike Way, Bracknell, RG12 8TN
Bracknell Ski Slope
You don’t need snow to ski or snowboard at Bracknell Ski Slope. Get some practice in at any time of the year with private or group lessons, or open practice sessions at the Bracknell-based outdoor snow sports centre. There’s also an Olympic-sized indoor ice rink for those who wish to try skating.
Next, travel to the town of Reading to visit Reading Museum, a 20-minute drive away.
T: +44 1189 373 400 | Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH
Reading Museum
Housed in a striking Victorian building, Reading Museum showcases almost 500,000 fascinating objects from across the world. As well an exciting programme of exhibitions, the museum also offers a broad range of family activities, from free gallery trails to storytelling and arts and crafts workshops.
From Reading Museum, it’s a 25-minute drive to Beale Park.
T: +44 1189 767 480 | Lower Basildon, Pangbourne, RG8 9NW
Beale Park Wildlife Park & Gardens
Beale Park is open from February to November and, with 30 acres of animal territories and attractions, is one of the best places to take young animal lovers. The park’s animal sanctuaries house a variety of mammals and birds, such as fallow deer, alpaca, wallaby, meerkats, monkeys and owls. There’s also a selection of family activities such as miniature train rides, river cruises and adventure play zones.
Next, take a 20-minute drive to Bucklebury Farm & Deer Safari Park.
T: +44 1189 714 002 | Bucklebury, Reading, RG7 6RR
Bucklebury Farm & Deer Safari Park
Continue the animal adventure at Bucklebury Farm Park. From petting guinea pigs and rabbits to grooming ponies and feeding lambs, the farm offers plenty of opportunities to interact with animals. Families can also enjoy a number of play areas, go on a tractor ride to feed the deer, and have a picnic in the beautiful 74-acre grounds.
Bring the day to a close with a 50-minute drive back to the hotel.
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