West Berkshire (pop. 161,447) is a local government area in south-central England. In 1998, it became a unitary authority. The area was previously the local government district of Newbury in the county of Berkshire. The River Thames forms part of West Berkshire’s boundary in the northeast.
West Berkshire is mainly a rural area, and agriculture has traditionally been the main economic activity. New industries, especially information and communications technology, have become important to the region’s economy. The largest population center is the town of Newbury, which lies on the River Kennet.
Places of interest in West Berkshire include Beedon, Eastbury, Hungerford, Lambourn, and Pangbourne. The Ridgeway prehistoric pathway passes through the north of West Berkshire. The Rivers Thames and Kennet and the Kennet and Avon Canal provide opportunities for boating and fishing. Newbury has a horse-racing course.
