A guide to Pangbourne

Did you know?

  • 1.
    The village was first recorded in 844 AD, during the Anglo Saxon period, and Pangbourne means 'Paega's Stream'.
  • 2.
    The famous seven Victorian houses overlooking the River Thames (known locally as the Seven Sisters or the Seven Deadly Sins) were built by the department store magnate DH Evans, a contemporary of Harry Selfridge.
  • 3.
    Kenneth Grahame, author of Wind in the Willows lived in Pangbourne, and the book's illustrator E. H. Shepard is said have based his drawings on the Thameside landscape.

Pangbourne Area

Situated on the River Thames, Pangbourne is known as one of the UK’s prettiest villages. Surrounded by the stunning scenery in the North Wessex Downs, and with direct access to London in just 45 minutes by train, it is understandable why this is such a desirable place to live. Popular amongst the locals, the water meadows are perfect for a picnic or a stroll.

Surrounding Villages

  • Stanford Dingley
    A picturesque village and civil parish in West Berkshire between Newbury and Pangbourne, home to the historical and well-known pubs 15th century Bull and 18th century Old Boot Inn. The refurbished historic village hall and village field offer opportunities to become part of the community through regularly held group events.
  • Upper Basildon
    The Thames-side civil parish of Basildon is in the Royal County of Berkshire, to the south you will find Pangbourne, with Streatley to the north. Upper Basildon is a small village in Basildon where there is a church built in 1964, dedicated to St Stephen, and the Basildon Church of England primary school sits on School Lane. The Red Lion is a rustic chic country pub, perfect for socialising.
  • Streatley
    On the River Thames in Berkshire, this village faces Goring-on-Thames where they share their shops, services, leisure and sports and much of their transport. Owing largely to the Ridgeway path which crosses the Thames at Goring and Streatley Bridge, it is no wonder this area has been classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
  • Goring-on-Thames
    Located on the River Thames in South Oxfordshire, Goring features the Goring Gap which is positioned within both The Chilterns and North Wessex Downs Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In the small high street there are two churches, a few shops, pubs and restaurants, with a rail service between Oxford and London.

Lifestyle

  • Shopping

    Pangbourne has an extensive range of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, especially for a village.

    There is a local Co-Op Store for your standard grocery shop, an award-winning family run butchers, pharmacy and award-winning Cheese shop ‘Cheese Etc’.

  • Eating

    Nino’s

    Independent and family run, this trattoria style establishment was first opened in 1980, and serves traditional Italian dishes.

    The Coppa Club

    Situated within The Swan at Streatley, The Coopa Club is open from breakfast until late, with a large riverside terrace overlooking the Thames.

    The Crooked Billet

    Rustic traditional inn offering modern and classic British cuisine and beloved bistro favourites utilising local produce.

  • Drinking

    The Swan

    17th century listed building, situated on the Thames with a beautiful terrace overlooking the river - a perfect spot to enjoy a drink.

    The Cross Keys Inn

    In the heart of the scenic Pangbourne village, this pub caters to those who want a swift drink or a relaxing sit-down meal.

    The Old Boot Inn

    This 18th Century rustic village pub boasts a fantastic garden, and serves fresh local produce and local ale.

Travel

  • Trains

    The average journey time between Pangbourne to London Paddington is 1 hour 7 minutes. There is a direct train departing every 30 minutes from Pangbourne and arriving at Reading everyday.

  • Other Transport

    Other transport in the area includes frequent buses to the surrounding areas, as well as good access to the M4 and M40.