“The Crab and Boar is an historic rural pub with rooms providing contemporary countryside accommodation with comfortable, cosy interiors and a relaxing restaurant. Some rooms have a private hot tub and terrace. Plenty of country pursuits and outdoor activities nearby. For perfect weekend getaways.”
“The Crab and Boar is an historic rural pub with rooms providing contemporary countryside accommodation with comfortable, cosy interiors and a relaxing restaurant. Some rooms have a private hot tub and terrace. Plenty of country pursuits and outdoor activities nearby. For perfect weekend getaways.”
Hotel Review
Commanding an enviable position high in the Newbury Downs, close to The Ridgeway, the Crab and Boar can claim roots dating back to the second battle of Newbury in 1644. Indeed famous former guests include Oliver Cromwell himself! Following an extensive refurbishment in 2015, the property is now an exceptionally comfortable and rustic inn cum boutique hotel. A veritable weekend bolthole, it enjoys stylish décor, impeccable food and unstuffy service. Bedrooms are divided into two types: five have private outdoor hot tubs, some with mahogany four-poster beds, whilst the other nine are called Superior and are richly furnished. Bathrooms feature deep bath tubs with separate showers and complimentary Bramley toiletries and each bedroom features vintage novelties such as an old fashioned black telephones, and alarm clocks. Cuisine is fine dining (it has garnered 2 AA Rosettes) and the menu takes its inspiration from the name of the property and is a combination of fresh seafood and field-to-fork game - both hit all the right spots. There are two-acres of manicured gardens, ideal for parties and celebrations whilst the al fresco terrace is a wonderful spot for sipping and supping in good weather. A favourite amongst those making a break from London for the weekend there is even a helicopter pad for the seriously jet set. For the rest of us, it is easily accessible by road and rail.
Written by Malcolm Orr-Ewing
Recommended For
- Country Escape
- With loads of country pursuits on the doorstep The Crab and Boar is perfect for a weekend getaway.
- Romantic Break
- For a cheeky romantic break this is perfect. Book a hot tub room and enjoy!
- Great walks
- Fantastic country walks on The Crab and Boar's doorstep
- Fishing
- Near to some of the country’s premier chalkstreams
- Learning
- Donnington Castle - An English Heritage Site
- Sights nearby
- Highclere Castle - The Real 'Downton Abbey'
- Golf
- Donnington Valley Golf Club
- Other Activities
- Newbury Racecourse
- Restaurant
- Great restaurant which prides itself on serving the best of British food from oysters to scotch eggs!
- Pet friendly
- All rooms are dog friendly. Bowls can be provided and treats are on offer at the bar!
- Private Hot Tub
- Several of the bedrooms have their own patios and outdoor hot tubs
- Full of character
- Rooms with balcony/terrace
- Free wifi
- Intimate
- Charming
- Traditional
- Restaurant with rooms
- Child friendly
- Inn
Facilities
- Restaurant
- Great restaurant which prides itself on serving the best of British food from oysters to scotch eggs!
- Pet friendly
- All rooms are dog friendly. Bowls can be provided and treats are on offer at the bar!
- Private Hot Tub
- Several of the bedrooms have their own patios and outdoor hot tubs
- Hot Tub
- Private hot tubs in certain rooms
- Suites
- Bridal Suite
- Room service
- Breakfast
- Wifi
- Outdoor dining
- Rooms with balcony/terrace
- Bar
- Parking
- Free wifi
- Garden
- Child friendly
Activities
- Great walks
- Fantastic country walks on The Crab and Boar's doorstep
- Fishing
- Near to some of the country’s premier chalkstreams
- Learning
- Donnington Castle - An English Heritage Site
- Sights nearby
- Highclere Castle - The Real 'Downton Abbey'
- Golf
- Donnington Valley Golf Club
- Other Activities
- Newbury Racecourse
Map & Location
What's Nearby
Other Reviews
The Cool Hotel Guide: Crab & Boar, Chieveley, Berk
It’s far enough from the motorway for you not to hear the traffic, which is hidden beyond rolling fields of rapeseed and barley. The Crab & Boar is a whitewashed 17th century thatched building with a modern annexe.
Originally published by The Times (view article)
