Snelsmore Common

About this park

Snelsmore Common Country Park, located four miles north-west of Newbury, offers a beautiful and varied heathland escape for everyone. This expansive 96-hectare reserve boasts a diverse landscape featuring heathland, wet mires, and woodlands, making it a haven for nationally rare bird species and a rich array of flora and fauna. Throughout the common, a network of paths provides ample opportunities for exploration, including Public Rights of Way suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, ensuring there's always a new route to discover. For dog owners, Snelsmore Common is a welcoming destination. Dogs are permitted throughout the park, allowing your canine companion to enjoy the natural surroundings alongside you. During the bird nesting season, from 1st March to 31st July, visitors are kindly asked to keep their dogs on leads while on the main common to protect the local wildlife. Outside of these times, dogs have more freedom to roam, but responsible pet ownership is encouraged at all times to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone. The park is well-equipped with amenities to enhance your visit. A large car park is conveniently located off the B4494, Wantage Road, open from 8 am daily (closing at 8 pm in summer and 6 pm in winter – please check signage upon arrival). For refreshments, The Snugg Café is on-site, providing a perfect spot for a break, and accessible toilets are also available. The site also features picnic areas, and for those with mobility needs, there's a 0.75-mile paved Easy Access Trail, fully accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs (a RADAR key is required for the gate). Snelsmore Common is a fantastic destination year-round, with the best time to visit being anytime. Spring brings the singing of woodlarks and glimpses of basking adders, while August and September showcase the vibrant colours of three types of heather. Even in winter, the broad-leaved woodlands offer peaceful walks, with long-tailed tits and other birds flitting through the trees. While entry is free, donations are welcomed at a station in the car park to help support the vital conservation work for local wildlife.

Facilities

• Café
• Seating/Benches
• Parking
• Public Toilets

Opening hours

Open 24 hours