Hampstead Marshall

This charming civil and ecclesiastical parish is tucked away just four miles west of Newbury, right on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire.

Spanning 1,852 acres (750 hectares), Hamstead is mostly lovely farmland, interspersed with beautiful woodlands that have been around for centuries.

To the north, you’ll find the scenic river Kennet, while to the south flows the tranquil river Enborne.

Hampstead Park, which was originally a Norman deer park and now covers about 300 acres .

With a population of 275 (as of 2011), people live in delightful hamlets such as Ash Tree Corner, Chapel Corner, Holtwood, Irish Hill, and near Hamstead Mill, beside the river Kennet, and the beautiful St Mary’s church that sits gracefully on a hill overlooking the river.

This lovely church, built in the twelfth century using flint and rubble, has seen some wonderful renovations in 1893 and again in 1929.

Currently, the church parish is part of the united benefice of West Woodhay, Enborne, Inkpen, and Combe. 

Back in 1844, a Congregationalist chapel was established, which later became a cosy private home in 1936.

The White Hart Inn has been a beloved spot for the village since at least the early nineteenth century, although it’s sadly closed now.

But don’t worry, there’s still The Red House nearby to check out!

A village school started back in the 1820s, but due to fewer students, it closed its doors in 1933.

Now, the building serves as the village hall, where you can join in on regular community events like monthly markets, classes, and parties, and it’s also available for private hire.

If you’re looking to learn more about Hamstead Marshall, feel free to visit the village website or the Hamstead Marshall parish council website.

With kind permission from Penny Stokes

For those commuting to London, you’ll be pleased to know it’s just under an hour from Hungerford Station, and about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car