A Weekend in Berkshire

There's a lot to do in the surrounding area of Binfield and Bracknell. Legoland has to be the highlight since we're all big kids at heart and we all love to be allowed to play with Lego ! But there are other things such as Windsor Castle, Ascot, Thorpe Park, or the River at Windsor to see. Sadly I only had a short visit and so the Castle and Windsor town will have to wait until next time. Thorpe Park is a huge theme park with rides for everyone and you can expect it to take you the whole day to do. The food at the local pub was amazing.

Quick Tips:

If heading there on a Friday night allow for the traffic - it can be murder, we found by leaving an hour earlier than we needed to we missed all the traffic and had an almost stress free journey. Take your own food and drinks to the theme parks, it might be a hassle carrying it but it'll be much much cheaper. You could always leave it in one of the lockers they supply and collect it later !

Best Way To Get Around:

The most reliable way to get around is by car though it's possible to get a train to nearby Bracknell. Walking is an option too as the hotel is near to the village of Binfield and allows walking access to the local pub and a local store. A car is essential for getting to the theme parks but you can take either the bus or the train to Windsor town centre.

The hotel was quietly out of the way whilst still being on a main road. This meant easy access to Bracknell, the M4, the village of Binfield and the surrounding areas.

The rooms were fairly large and although basic they were clean and tidy. The bed was comfortable with an ample supply of pillows. The bathroom was adequate and provided a powerful shower and extra towels were available. The TV lacked Sky Sports but the provided with the kettle and coffee/tea supplies was a small packet of crispy M&M's - just what is required about a 2 hour drive ! The staff were very helpful and were able to direct us to the local pub and somewhere to watch the football.

The Roebuck has some of the best pub food in the world...well the area anyway. The choice is vast from hot or cold baguettes to jacket potatoes to steak to specialities and all at sensible prices. It'll take you a while to make a decision and I don't think there is a wrong decision here ! The portions are huge so unless you regularly eat massive meals don't think you can eat a 3 course meal - we all tried and all failed. The staff are friendly and helpful, it's mainly full of locals but they're friendly too! There is Stripe the Dalmatian wandering about - friendly and adorable.

The drinks are regular pub drinks but with a good selection of 'real ale'. This is a pub with a great atmosphere and great food so I'd have to wholeheartedly recommend it.

Thorpe Park has lots to offer, you can whizz upside down on Colossus or get soaked on Tidal Wave. You run the risk of getting wet on the Ribena Rumba Rapids which were great fun. There are some gentler rides like the Carousel, the teacups, the banana boat. Then there is the Vortex which really is scary and adiable to complete before food.

Food is expensive and chain stored - KFC, Burger King etc. Water and Ice cream are pricey but of course essential. I'd advise taking your own supplies where possible, though carrying a big bag is a pain unless you have someone to hold it whilst you're on the rides !

We're definitley going back next year when they've finished building Nemesis !

Well...everything is made of Lego or so they try to convince you. There's a nice big castle with a dragon ride in - tame by rollercoaster standards but fun to see the special effects. There are stacks of small children activities...building things, taking a driving test in Lego cars, panning for gold, riding the Lego train, going on the Safari Train - spotting the animals as you go. Then there's the story book boat trip...you travel through scenes from Fairy Tales made of Lego - there's the Big Bad Wolf, a nasty troll, Snow White - they're all there - fantastic ride.

The food isn't bad either - there are lots of places to eat all offering different types of food, the portions are big and reaasonably priced. No matter what your age - Legoland is a must - there's so much to do and though the rides are simple they are fun.