The Living Rainforest is clearly signposted from the A34/ M4 J13 (Chieveley).
From London or Bristol
Leave the M4 at Junction 13 (Chieveley) and follow the Rainforest signs.
From Reading
Access Hampstead Norreys via the M4 J13 exit (Chieveley), or via Pangbourne and Ashampstead.
From Oxford
Take the A34 towards Newbury. Exit at East Ilsley and follow the signs to Hampstead Norreys, and then the brown Tourist Information signs to the Rainforest. Please note: this route is unsuitable for coaches. Larger vehicles should follow the M4 J13 exit (Chieveley).
From Newbury
Take B4009 from Robin Hood roundabout to Hermitage (via Curridge). From Hermitage, follow the Rainforest signs. Alternatively, access the Living Rainforest via the M4 J13 exit (Chieveley).
Coach Drivers, Please Note
Coach Satellite Navigation systems may attempt to direct coaches off the M4 at Junction 12. This road is largely unsuitable for coaches and there are limited signposts. Please ensure that your driver follows the directions given on our website, exiting at Junction 13 of the M4, and allowing plenty of time to navigate small lanes.
Trains
The nearest train stations are Newbury (20 minutes drive), Pangbourne, and Goring and Streatley (both approximately 15 minutes drive). These stations all have regular services to London, with a journey time of approximately one hour.
Taxis from Newbury typically cost around £25 – visitors are advised to book in advance and pre-arrange the taxi fare before travelling to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Buses
There is an occasional bus service from Newbury to “Hampstead Norreys, Water Street” which is a 25 minute walk from The Living Rainforest (1.2 miles). Please note that the walk is uphill and part of it is without a pavement so may not be suitable for everyone.
When we last checked there was one bus in the morning leaving Newbury bus station at 10:50, with buses returning in the afternoon at approximately 2pm or 4pm. Please check here for up to date service information before travelling. Note that this service does not operate on Sundays or Bank Holidays.
Green discount
The Living Rainforest offers a Green Discount of £1 off the admission price for each individual arriving by bus or bicycle (this discount does not apply to already-discounted group admission rates). If you arrive by bus, please show your ticket at the front reception desk to claim your green discount.
