Aug
Located in the heart of Berkshire, Bracknell offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all interests. From lush parks and historical sites to modern entertainment and a new shopping centre, this town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Bracknell is well known for its thriving corporate sector, housing the head offices of major companies such as John Lewis/Waitrose, Honda, and Honeywell. This makes it a significant business hub in the region and it attracts a strong level of corporate guests to the area, keen to explore what the region offers. With a trainline to London and nestled between access to M3 and M4 motorways, there is plenty to explore locally and further afield.
Here are some of the top things to do in Bracknell, Berkshire.
Things to Do in Bracknell for Couples
1. The Lexicon
One of Bracknell’s most prominent attractions, The Lexicon is a contemporary shopping and leisure destination. Initially launched in 2017, featuring over 70 stores, including high-end brands and popular retailers, making it a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Beyond shopping, The Lexicon offers a wide array of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. The addition of a 12-screen Cineworld cinema nearby and regular events make it an ideal spot for a day out. It is a perfect opportunity for couples to shop, dine, and watch a movie – a textbook date night!
2. South Hill Park Arts Centre
South Hill Park is a vibrant arts centre housed in an 18th-century mansion. It hosts a variety of performances, including theatre, dance, and live music. Couples can enjoy art galleries, cinema, productions and the Atrium bar and restaurant. The surrounding parklands and gardens are perfect for a leisurely, romantic stroll.
3. The Royal Foresters
For a taste of history combined with modern luxury, visit The Royal Foresters. Originally opened in 1860, the Royal Foresters has been beautifully restored with contemporary interiors. It offers a charming place to visit for a drink and meal, with an excellent restaurant serving locally sourced food and with a wood-fired pizza oven. It is a wonderful location for a romantic dinner, especially benefiting from a lovely outdoor terrace on warmer days.
4. Coral Reef Waterworld
The adult-only Coral Spa offers a more relaxing experience with saunas, steam rooms, and a spa pool, allowing couples to unwind away from the noise, excitement and energy of young children within Coral Reef!
Things to Do in Bracknell for Families
1. Swinley Forest
Nature lovers will find Swinley Forest a delightful escape. Spanning over 2,600 acres, this forest is ideal for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The forest trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for families and seasoned hikers and riders alike. The Look Out Discovery Centre, located within the forest, offers interactive science and nature exhibits perfect for children, making it an attractive destination for all of the family, ages and abilities.
2. Coral Reef Waterworld
For a splash of fun, visit Coral Reef Waterworld, one of the largest interactive water parks in the UK. With its thrilling water slides, wave pool, and pirate ship, it promises a fun-filled day for families. The adult-only Coral Spa offers a more relaxing experience with saunas, steam rooms, and a spa pool.
3. Lily Hill Park
Lily Hill Park is a beautiful Victorian park that spans 56 acres. It’s a great place for a peaceful walk, with its formal gardens, woodlands, and open fields. The park is also home to various sculptures and a restored Edwardian water garden. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and outdoor relaxation.
4. Ascot Racecourse
Located just a short drive from Bracknell, Ascot Racecourse is an ideal family day out, especially on race days. With a variety of events throughout the year, it’s a fantastic spot to experience thrilling horse racing and enjoy the entertainment at this world-famous venue.
5. Puzzalogical Escape Room
Puzzalogical have multiple types of escape rooms to challenge and keep you entertained. They offer a range of difficulties, with the more challenging sure to test even the most experienced escape room veterans! The themes include ‘prison break’, ‘the vault’, ‘pharaoh’s mystery’ and ‘alien encounter’. The offering has expanded to include virtual reality options for a truly immersive experience for all of the family.
6. Indoor Climbing
Oakwood climbing centre offers climbing options for the entire family. There are private and group sessions aimed at every level. Why not learn and experience something new as a family, developing the skills, knowledge and confidence to climb independently in the future.
Things to Do in Bracknell for Adults
1. South Hill Park Arts Centre
Beyond its family-friendly offerings, South Hill Park Arts Centre hosts various adult-oriented performances and workshops. From contemporary theatre productions and comedians to art classes, there’s always something interesting happening for adults to enjoy.
2. Ascot Racecourse
For adults looking for a bit of excitement, Ascot Racecourse offers a prestigious setting for horse racing. As one of the world’s most renowned race course circuits and with a capacity for 70,000 spectators, it is a highly popular local attraction near Bracknell. Its luxurious facilities are particularly prominent during the annual Royal Ascot week. Beyond this, there are frequent events, so dress up and get ready for a stylish day out! With such a large capacity, accommodation and parking can be challenging, making Beneficial House, Bracknell, an appealing option. Why not check in to our serviced apartments with parking and take a short trip to Ascot via the excellent public transport options available?
3. Coral Spa
The adult-only Coral Spa, at Coral Reef, offers a more relaxing experience with saunas, steam rooms, and a spa pool. Perfect for adults to unwind, relax and detox away from any children!
4. Indoor Climbing
Following Toby Roberts success, achieving gold for Team GB at the Paris 2024 olympics, climbing is at the forefront of many people’s minds. Oakwood climbing centre offers adult sessions, ranging from beginners courses through to social or private instructed sessions.
Things to Do in Bracknell for Free
1. Lily Hill Park
Lily Hill Park’s open fields, woodlands, and gardens offer plenty of space for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic, all at no cost. The park’s sculptures and Edwardian water garden add to its charm.
2. Mill Pond
A tranquil spot for nature enthusiasts, Mill Pond offers scenic walking paths and a chance to spot local wildlife. The pond is home to various bird species, making it a popular location for birdwatching.
3. Wildridings Playing Fields
Wildridings Playing Fields is a great place for sports enthusiasts. The fields are used for various sports, including football and cricket, and there’s also a playground for children. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor activities and community events.
4. Swinley Forest
Nature lovers will find Swinley Forest a delightful escape. Spanning over 2,600 acres, this forest is ideal for walking, cycling, and horse riding.
5. Walks in Bracknell
There are plenty of walks in and around Bracknell, suitable for all fitness levels. We have collated a list of our favourites, including length and difficulty in our best walks in bracknell blog. Many of the walks incorporate somewhere to eat and drink, which is always a fine reward after a nice stroll!
Where to eat in Bracknell?
Bracknell has plenty of options to choose from when it comes to eating. From smokeshouses, to succulent oriental flavours to traditional pub food, Bracknell has options for you. We have collated some of the House of Fisher team’s favourites in our best places to eat in Bracknell blog.
Transport
Bracknell boasts excellent transport links, being well-connected by the M3 and M4 motorways. It is also within easy reach of major airports such as Gatwick and Heathrow, making it a convenient location for both domestic and international travellers.
Just a 12 minute walk from our Beneficial House, Bracknell serviced apartments is Bracknell Train station, linking to Waterloo, London.
Conclusion
Bracknell may not be as famous as some other UK destinations, but it boasts a wealth of activities and attractions that make it well worth a visit.
Whether you’re eager to explore the great outdoors, indulge in some retail therapy, or immerse yourself into the arts, Bracknell has something to offer everyone. So, next time you’re planning a trip, be sure to add Bracknell to your itinerary.If you require somewhere to stay, our aparthotel Beneficial House offers a range of studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with parking, providing a true ‘home from home’ experience. Always book directly online or via our guest services team on 01189 514151 for the best available rate.