Built-up area in West Berkshire, England
| Coordinates: | 51.397, -1.256 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SU 51 66 |
| Population: | 24,274 |
| Dialling code: | 01635 (Newbury) |
Thatcham in West Berkshire, England sits on the banks of the River Kennet between Newbury and Reading, close to the M4 and served by a local rail link. It still feels riverside and semi-rural despite being a commuter base for nearby towns, with a mix of housing, light industry and local shops clustered around a compact town centre.
The town is famous for its long history - archaeological finds show Mesolithic activity and have led to claims it is one of Britain’s oldest continuously occupied settlements - and the Thatcham Discovery Centre interprets much of that past. Modern local life balances that heritage with nature and enterprise: the Thatcham Reedbeds (part of the Kennet floodplain) are an important wetland reserve and there is a notable automotive research presence alongside everyday community amenities.
RG18 4EP, RG19 3SB, RG19 3RS, RG18 3SU, RG19 3RL, RG19 4GN, RG19 3AD, RG18 3FG, RG19 3TL … See all