Newbury Town Council hosts three 'beating the bounds' events to celebrate its 25th anniversary

As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, Newbury Town Council is hosting three events where people can learn more about the town’s history by walking or cycling its boundaries, writes Emily Pennington.

There will be two opportunities to walk the town boundaries, both around six miles.

The south boundary walk will take place on June 26 and the north boundary walk on July 2.

Both walks will begin at 2pm, meeting outside the town hall in Market Place.

Beating the bounds by bike will be taking place on July 24, where you can cycle the full town boundary, around 23km long, also meeting outside the town hall in Market Place.

Both walking and cycling the bounds will be taken at a leisurely pace, with refreshments available at the end of the events.

Newbury mayor Gary Norman said: “Come and join me beating the bounds.

“Fresh air, a good walk, good company and a personal chat with the mayor, all whilst taking part in a tradition that dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. What’s not to like?”

Beating the bounds is a historic method of formally recognising the parish boundaries before maps existed.

The town boundaries would be walked and boundary markers placed.

All events are free to attend and suitable for families to take part in with no sign up required, just arrive at the meeting point on the day.

Comfortable and appropriate footwear and clothing should be worn.

Facilities on all routes will be limited and attendees are encouraged to stay hydrated and bring their own bottle of water.