Discover Cold Ash: History, Amenities, and More

Cold Ash is a charming village located about 4 miles North-East of Newbury.

Most of the village is situated on a ridge of the Berkshire Downs, offering breathtaking views of the Kennet valley to the south and the Pang valley to the north.

If you venture just a short distance away, you’ll discover the lovely adjoining village of Ashmore Green, which lies at a lower elevation less than a mile to the south-west of Cold Ash.

The Parish is a vibrant and friendly community that includes the urban fringes of Newbury (Manor Park) and Thatcham (Southend & Florence Gardens), as well as large areas of woodland with public rights of way that allow Parishioners to enjoy them.

They have good transportation options with connections to Reading, London, Oxford, and Southampton via the A4, A34, and M4.

Plus, the Thatcham train station is conveniently located only two miles away.

From almost everywhere in the Parish, you can take in the sweeping views of the tranquil countryside.

If you love outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for exploring this North Wessex Landscape area.

Plus, the Parish is served by two cosy public houses, and the village itself offers a shop/Post Office, two public houses, two primary schools, and the highly regarded private school, Downe House.

In the wider vicinity, you’ll also discover an excellent range of independent schools, including Brockhurst and Marlston, Bradfield College, St. Andrews, St. Gabriels, Horris Hill, and Elstree.

For more amenities and facilities, the nearby market town of Newbury offers a comprehensive range of amenities with a mainline station, theatre, cinema, leisure/fitness centres, and shopping facilities.

Moreover, the Parish is the proud home to the Acland Memorial Hall that hosts a number of community clubs like tennis, cricket, girl guiding, scouts, preschool, Little Quavers Music, the horticultural society, brass band, WI, flower arranging, society of theatre goers, volunteers, walkers, heritage, and walker’s groups.

Also, there are three children’s play areas and a village store and post office.

If you’re looking for a place to eat or drink, you’ll love The Spotted Dog and The Castle.

The Spotted Dog has a newly enclosed garden and playground, which is safe for children & dogs.

You can enjoy selection of Homemade Cakes at The Castle or order them to take away!

For families, you’ll find St Mark’s C of E Primary School, which encourages a sense of community and is perfect to raise your children in.

Sports enthusiasts will love the recreation ground by the village hall with tennis courts.

St. Mark’s Church is a cherished part of the Hermitage Team Ministry, which comprises seven churches to the North-East of Newbury.

The Parababble Puppets from the church now have their very own YouTube Channel! 

When it comes to health, the Thatcham Medical Practice is in the main area for health.

To get around, you can take the no 41 bus that runs from Newbury through Cold Ash to Theale, or you can use the Thatcham railway, which is about two miles away.

Lastly, Cold Ash Parish Council is the civil council administration serving the Parishioners of Cold Ash Parish.

The council provides essential facilities, including the Hermitage Road Recreation Ground, Tennis Courts, Children’s Play Areas, and Allotments.