Exploring Hungerford: Canal Walks and Antique Treasures

It was the weekend again—time for another adventure! This time, instead of traveling far, I decided to explore somewhere closer to home. Hungerford had caught my eye during train journeys to places like Bath and Bradford-on-Avon. Each time the train stopped there, it seemed like a charming little town waiting to be explored. Online research didn’t reveal much about Hungerford, which only made it more intriguing. Why not uncover its hidden charm?

How to Get to Hungerford: A Direct Bus Journey from Newbury

We took a direct bus (No. 3) from Newbury to Hungerford, a journey of about an hour. While the ride was smooth, we couldn’t help but wish for a double-decker bus so we could enjoy unobstructed views from the top deck. Unfortunately, it wasn’t one, so much of the scenery was blocked. Still, the anticipation of reaching Hungerford kept the mood light, and before we knew it, we had arrived.

Discovering Hungerford on Foot: Exploring the Town’s Heart

Hungerford is a small town, perfect for exploring on foot. As soon as we arrived, we strolled a few steps to the High Street, the town’s heart, where our first stop was Coffee #1, a beloved local coffee chain. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeted us as we stepped inside, and we couldn’t resist ordering a turmeric latte and a coffee caramel cake. It was our first time trying a turmeric latte, and its subtle blend of earthy turmeric with a touch of sweetness was perfect for the autumn weather. The coffee caramel cake, however, was a bit different from what we usually enjoy at Coffee #1. While still enjoyable, it was slightly more crumbly and less indulgent than the one we typically have, which tends to be softer and more moist.

Strolling Through Hungerford’s Quaint High Street and Unique Shops

After our cosy coffee break, we wandered down the High Street, taking in the character of the town. The shops along the street were eclectic and inviting, with something for every taste. Our first stop was Inklings, a quaint store filled with beautifully crafted toys and rustic baskets. We picked up a gift for a friend’s child.

From here, we crossed a tiny bridge that led to a small square featuring a war memorial where the River Dun forked. The area had a serene, almost ethereal quality to it, with the gentle flow of the river and the surrounding trees creating a peaceful, meditative atmosphere. We stood there for a moment, admiring the blend of nature and history before continuing our walk.

Antique Shopping in Hungerford: A Hidden Treasure Trove

Hungerford Antique Shopping is a must for collectors and history enthusiasts. Our next stop was Great Grooms of Hungerford, a sprawling three-story store filled to the brim with treasures. As we entered, we were immediately struck by the sheer volume of vintage furniture, ceramics, and jewellery on display across each floor. The store was a maze of fascinating items, each with its own unique character. Browsing through the aisles felt like stepping back in time. Though the pieces were expensive, each one seemed to tell a story. We couldn’t help but imagine how these timeless items would look in a future home in England. The intricate craftsmanship and deep history behind each piece made them even more captivating, adding an undeniable charm to the experience.

A Scenic Walk Along the Kennet and Avon Canal

After immersing ourselves in the antiques, we decided to explore the Kennet and Avon Canal. This beautiful stretch of waterway runs through Hungerford, and the pathway alongside it offers a raw, rugged charm. The weather was perfect for a walk, with the crisp autumn air and the colourful foliage all around. As we strolled, we marvelled at the houseboats moored along the canal and wondered what it would be like to live on one. There was a peacefulness to the place that made it feel like an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For more storybook riverside scenes, check out our guide to Bourton-on-the-Water, another charming waterside village full of character.

Discovering Heart Song: A Tranquil Shop Along the Canal

Along the way, we stopped at Heart Song, a small shop that immediately captured our attention. Filled with gemstones, incense, and other spiritual items, it had a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. As soon as we stepped inside, we were enveloped by a calming fragrance that seemed to linger in the air, adding to the peaceful vibe of the store. We spent some time exploring the shelves and chatting with the shop owner, who told us more about the scents they used. We ended up purchasing a pack of Aruda incense (from the renowned Nag Champa brand), known for its refreshing, herbal fragrance that had filled the shop. The serene ambiance made it the perfect place to recharge before continuing our walk.

Exploring Hungerford Lock and St. Lawrence’s Church

As we continued along the canal, we came across the Hungerford lock, an interesting piece of canal infrastructure designed to help boats navigate different water levels. Although we didn’t see it in action, it was still a notable sight. After a brief stop to admire the lock, we continued our walk along the canal.

Nearby, we discovered St. Lawrence’s Church, a beautiful building that harmonized perfectly with the surrounding landscape. Set against the flowing canal, the vibrant autumn leaves framed the church in a stunning display of colour. The churchyard exuded a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection. After taking in the beauty of the church, we crossed a small bridge and ventured into a wilder section of the canal path. The area was lush with untamed growth, and the natural surroundings added to the peaceful ambiance. We continued for about 100 meters before turning back. Instead of retracing our steps, we took a different route behind the church, winding through peaceful residential streets and admiring the vibrant autumn hues along the way. The walk felt almost like something out of a storybook—quiet, charming, and full of natural beauty.

Visiting Hungerford Arcade: Antique Collectibles and Vintage Finds

Once we made our way back to the High Street, we visited Hungerford Arcade Antiques and Collectables, a cosy indoor space filled with a variety of small antique shops. Each stall was a trove of vintage treasures, from delicate ceramics to antique jewellery and unique trinkets. The sheer variety of items was overwhelming, and I was so engrossed in browsing that I completely forgot to take any photos! I felt like I could have spent hours sifting through the stalls, almost wishing I could take home one of everything. After indulging in some delightful browsing (and reminding myself not to buy everything I liked), we decided it was time for lunch.

A Delicious Vegetarian Meal at Amore Italian Restaurant

Hungerford offers a range of dining options, though as vegetarians, we found our choices somewhat limited. Eventually, we stumbled upon Amore Italian Restaurant, which had a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that suited our tastes perfectly. I chose a comforting risotto al funghi, creamy and brimming with earthy mushrooms, while Keer opted for the classic spaghetti al pomodoro, a simple yet flavourful dish. Feeling content and refuelled, we made our way back to the bus station, with a quick stop at Cooper and Cooper, another charming antique shop, along the way.

Final Thoughts: Why Hungerford is the Perfect Day Trip Destination

Hungerford may be small, but it’s brimming with charm. From its scenic canal and historic church to its eclectic antique shops, the town offers a delightful mix of nature, history, and nostalgia. It’s the perfect destination for a peaceful day trip, offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you love discovering charming historic towns like Hungerford, be sure to check out our Winchester day trip as well — another beautiful destination just a short journey from Newbury!