It was slightly too hot for what we're used to in Berkshire, but honestly? I'm not complaining. Long evenings, canal walks, fields full of wildflowers and that golden light that makes everything look like a painting.
West Berkshire really did deliver this year!
📍 WHAT I GOT UP TO IN AUGUST
One of the highlights of my summer was being invited to The Hangman's Lunch at The Crown & Garter Inn in Inkpen - a walk up to Combe Gibbet followed by lunch and a live Q&A with genealogist Patricia Sears, who has spent years uncovering the real story behind one of Berkshire's darkest tales. 351 years ago, two lovers committed a double murder on a windswept Berkshire hilltop, and the newly uncovered details are genuinely gripping. I shared it all on the Social Berks Instagram if you missed it. Read more about the Black Legend here.
I also spent a lot of August doing what I do best - walking. Pen Woods, the canal path, Greenham Common, The Chase.. West Berkshire really is on another level when the sun is out!
And then there was the post that surprised even me. I put together a carousel called "everything I love about Newbury" - a love letter to our town, and it absolutely flew. Over 35,000 views and so many of you sharing what YOU love about Newbury too. Reading through every single comment genuinely made my week!
This town is special and it's clear you all feel the same way!
📅 WHAT'S ON IN BERKSHIRE THIS SEPTEMBER
Right, here's your September sorted:
🎵 Newbury Sounds — Corn Exchange Newbury
Friday 4 September | 7pm
Live music in one of Newbury's most loved venues. Perfect start to the month.
⚔️ Medieval Jousting Weekend — Dinton Pastures
12 & 13 September | 10am–4pm
Knights, jousting, living history — adults from £8.50pp, camping available. One of the most unique days out this month.
🎸 Down at the Abbey — Reading Abbey Ruins
11 & 12 September
An independent music festival set against one of Reading's most atmospheric historic sites. Two stages, no clashes.
🗝️ Heritage Open Days — across Berkshire
11–20 September
Behind the scenes tours, guided walks, talks and church open days. Most events free.
🐾 Dog Walk, Talk & Book Signing with Clare Balding
The Tractor Shed, Highclere Valley | 29 September | from 10am
Walk, food and a book signing with one of the nation's most beloved presenters. Book early — this one will sell out.
🦆 Reading Duck Race — The Oracle Riverside
19 September
Chaotic, joyful and very Berkshire. Bring the kids.
🛍️ Bracknell Indoor Indie Market
The Village Hotel Bracknell | Saturday 19 September | 10am–3pm | free entry
Independent makers, local finds and a proper browse.
🌼 Quiz Night — Daisy Dream Charity
The Bowlers Arms, Newbury | Friday 11 September | 7pm
£15 includes a curry and all proceeds go to supporting bereaved children and young people in Berkshire. Get a team together 💛
💼 BACK TO BUSINESS, BERKSHIRE
September means new energy and getting in the room with the right people. Here are three events worth putting in your diary, I’m particularly excited about Kitchen Tales Live! (full disclosure, I am involved in the creation of this event.)
☕ Coffee with Purpose — The Hare & Hounds, Newbury | 8 September
🎤 Kitchen Tales Live — Newbury | 15 September, 10:30am–12:30pm
🎙️ Berkshire Creatives Networking — Reading Biscuit Factory | 16 September, 10am–12pm
🤍 COMMUNITY LOVE
A huge thank you to everyone who commented on the Newbury post last month - your recommendations, your memories and your love for this town made it one of my favourite pieces of content I've ever made. You are Social Berks as much as I am 🤍
Enjoy September, Berkshire - it's going to be a good one 🍂 - I’ve got so much planned so please keep an eye on Instagram for lots of local gems!
Stela
Social Berks | @socialberks
Have a local gem we should know about? Just hit reply - I read everything.