Out & About
Days out at the races
ASCOT
Approximately 40 miles
Few sporting venues can match the rich heritage and history of Ascot Racecourse. Over the past 300 years, Ascot has established itself as a national institution; with Royal Ascot becoming the centerpiece of the British social calendar and the ultimate stage for the best racehorses in the world.
NEWBURY RACECOURSE
Approximately 18 miles
Newbury Racecourse is over 100 years old and as such combines heritage with everything a modern sporting and events venue can offer.
SANDOWN PARK
Approximately 70 miles
Sandown Park Racecourse hosts thrilling year-round jump and flat horse racing, including the bet365 Ultimate Celebration, Coral-Eclipse Summer Festival and Tingle Creek Christmas Festival.


CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE
Approximately 50 miles
Not only is Cheltenham famous for some of the world’s best jump racing and the host for the Cheltenham Festival but there’s always something happening – from music festivals and comedy performances to auctions and exhibitions.
ARC – ROYAL WINDSOR RACECOURSE
Approximately 50 miles
Experience the unique blend of royal heritage and intimate atmosphere that is Royal Windsor Racecourse. Over the years, they have played hosted many exciting and successful events – the famous summertime Monday night racing is just one of them!
BATH RACING EVENTS
Approximately 50 miles
Bath Racecourse is part of Arena Racing Company (ARC), which operates 15 racecourses across the UK. All of their racecourses are versatile venues that are available all year round for race days and events. Their welcoming atmospheres and first class facilities will ensure that you have an enjoyable experience at any of their racecourses, whatever the occasion.
Family fun attractions around Oxfordshire
OXFORD RIVER CRUISES
Provides a range of luxury boat trips, sightseeing tours and unique picnic cruises in the heart of the historic city of Oxford.
COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK
A fantastic day out for all the family. Stroll around the Park and enjoy uninterrupted views of the animals, so it feels as though you are in a wild setting. There are animals galore that you can get up close to.
ICE-SKATING AT OXFORD ICE RINK
The Oxford Ice Rink has public sessions daily.
UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History houses Oxford University’s extensive collections of entomological, geological, mineralogical and zoological material of international importance.


OUTLET SHOPPING AT BICESTER VILLAGE OUTLET SHOPPING
Exceptional value is always in style. Bicester Village is home to over 130 designer outlet boutiques set around delightful open-air pedestrianised streets, offering up to 60 per cent off previous seasons’ collections from the world’s leading fashion and lifestyle brand names.
COVERED MARKET AT OXFORD
Oxfordshire has featured in many blockbuster films and TV programmes over the years. Follow in the famous footsteps of Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, Lyra and others and explore some of those magical locations around the country.
BLENHEIM PALACE
Set in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace is considered to be one of the finest baroque houses in the country.
SIGHTSEEING BUS AT CITY SIGHTSEEING OXFORD
Hop On – Hop Off! 20 stops including, Christ Church College, Sheldonian Theatre, Queen’s College, Martyr’s Memorial, Trinity College and Oxford Tourist Information Centre.
THE RANDOLPH SPA
With its lantern-lit walkways and subtle music, it is hard to believe that the Spa at the Randolph is in the heart of Oxford. Escape the stresses and strains of everyday life and step into one of four treatment rooms.
Surrounding Villages
WANTAGE
Wantage is approximately 5 miles from Swallow’s Nest and lies in the heart of Oxfordshire. The quaint market town is a short distance from The Vale of White Horse, and has a variety of shops from stylish evening wear to local food producers. There is also a vast range of places to eat and drink – all being very welcoming.
Wantage has great historic values, which shows through its 17th and 18th century buildings and charming features. It is believed that King Alfred was born here in 849AD and a memorial statue was commissioned by Lord Wantage, in 1877. It stands today as a huge centre piece and attraction in the town market place.
A local market is held every Saturday and Wednesday, creating a warm community feel within the town. However, if you are seeking activity or are a keen walker, then try the ancient Ridgeway National Trail which is just 3.5 kilometers out of town. There you can enjoy the stunning Oxfordshire scenery, which is perfect on a summer’s evening.
Last but not least, Wantage has a thriving night and social life with many local organisations and groups. Music also plays a large part in the life of the town and a brass band plays regularly on special occasions. Wantage’s month-long festival of music and arts is held in June and July.


NEWBURY
Although slightly further afield than Wantage; Newbury is only a short 14 mile drive away and has everything you need from a day at the races to luxurious shops and spa treatments.
For visitors new to Newbury there is Tourist Information Point in the Town Hall (centre of the Market Place), which is open from 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday. Here there is a team dedicated to helping you make the most of your visit to the area. They offer suggestions for days out, give you an idea of what’s going on locally, and how to get around.
The Newbury area has a wealth of great days out for all the family to enjoy. You can experience fun times for families at Beale Park, Bucklebury Farm Park and Krazy Klub Activity Centre. Feel history brought alive at Basildon Park, Shaw House and Highclere Castle. Or be entertained at one of three theatres in and around the town. There is also a seven screen cinema in the town centre, where you can watch all the latest movies just on your doorstep after enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many popular restaurants.
If a peaceful retreat is what you desire then the area offers superb fishing on the River Kennet, inspiring walks across the Berkshire Downs or relaxing trips on the Kennet and Avon Canal. Moreover at no cost at all you can explore Donnington Castle, Greenham Common and Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre – Newbury really does have everything to offer!
Enquiries
Swallow’s Nest would love to hear from you. Call: 01488 638243 / 01488 638820 or email below:
