Bracknell

Bracknell lies in the heart of Berkshire, surrounded by the Black Forest, around 35 miles west of London. It was designated a new town in 1949 following the Second World War, and has grown steadily since to become a key commercial centre of the borough. The area surrounding the city is very much an activities-orientated place, which will keep families and kids busy with its many exciting places to visit and enjoy. Noteworthy is the [http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout/ Look Out Discovery Centre], as well as Legoland Windsor and the [http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/coralreef/ Coral Reef Waterworld]. The city centre has a large selection of shops, with enough entertainment and drinking establishments to keep the adults amused.

Attractions

One of Bracknell's key attractions is the large swathe of forest that surrounds the local area. Hidden in amongst the trees are a selection of activity-related exploits that are ideal for families. [http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/coralreef/ Coral Reef Waterworld] swimming complex is a fun-filled family indoor waterpark, with many slides and wave machines to keep the kids amused, with saunas and Jacuzzis for the adults. There is also a fitness room, sunbeds, and an on-site cafe. The waterpark is open seven days per week throughout most of the year.

[http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout/ The Look Out Discovery Centre] offers a collection of highly interactive and engaging activities to keep the children entertained, as well as educating them in a variety of topics such as science and nature. There are also many outdoor picnic tables with a large play area. The centre is located on 2,600 acres of woodland, and the many miles of footpaths and trails make for an excellent adventure around the forest. One can also hire mountain bikes from the centre and take to the mountain bike trails designated across the area. The centre is open throughout the year and ticket prices are reasonable.

[http://www.legoland.co.uk/ Legoland Windsor] is just a few short miles away from Bracknell city centre and is an excellent way to entertain the kids for a day. Set in 150 acres of parkland, with over 50 'interactive' rides and a selection of live shows, it is a sure hit with the children. For racing fans, the chance to visit the famous [http://www.royalascot.co.uk/ Royal Ascot Racecourse] should not be missed. The internationally renowned racetrack hosts major horse racing events on a regular basis. Races are scheduled throughout the racing calendar (July to December), and tickets are very reasonably priced for the several hours entertainment the track can provide.

Shopping

The city of Bracknell is very much geared towards the shopping experience it offers. This is reflected in the large number of shops available. The centre is nearly traffic-free, due to the city council's decision to pedestrianise most of the city centre. There are large pedestrianised shopping areas located around Princess Square, Charles Square and the Broadway, which are mostly undercover. Each of these areas has its own set of shops, with ample car parking available at both Princess Square and Charles Square. The shops are a good selection of the usual high street brands, as well as smaller independent merchants located off the main areas.

Nightlife / Dining

The selection of restaurants in Bracknell is fairly limited. The majority of restaurants are American/English, such as [http://www.frankieandbennys.com/ Franky & Benny's] or Indian food, of which there are a number of decent places to eat. There are a few Chinese restaurants near the centre.

The city fairs better in terms of bars and pubs. There are a number of excellent traditional pubs, most notably The Cannie Man which has been recently refurbished, and the Silver Birch in nearby Birch Hill. There is a good choice of more modern bars, which are conveniently located around the centre of town. Prices are generally quite low, considering the proximity to London. There are also some good clubs in Bracknell, notably Colours and the Bier Kellar nightclub.

As well as wining and dining there is also entertainment available. The city boasts a large [http://www.odeon.co.uk/ Odeon] cinema, which has an impressive 10 screens on offer. There are also three theatres - The Little Theatre, South Hill Park Arts Centre, and the Wilde Theatre - each showing a variety of dance and dramatic shows

Information Centre

Tourist Information CentreThe Look Out Discovery CentreNine Mile RideBracknellBerkshireRG12 7QW

Airport

[http://heathrow-airport-guide.co.uk/ Heathrow Airport] lies 20km to the west and is accessible by local bus services. The airport is used by 90 airlines, flying to over 180 destinations in over 90 countries around the world.
  • Heathrow: +44(0)870 000 0123
[http://www.gatwick-airport-guide.co.uk/ Gatwick Airport] is situated 45km to the south and similarly houses 90 airlines flying to around 200 destinations.
  • Gatwick: +44 (0)870 000 2468

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