How to spend a day in Harpsden among UK’s poshest villages

Harpsden, near Henley-on-Thames, has no pub or shop, but you can make a day of your visit by browsing local shops, enjoying food in the pubs nearby, and even adding some sport to the itinerary.

The Oxfordshire village was named one of the UK’s poshest by The Telegraph, which used exclusive research provided by Savills.

When it comes to “posh appeal”, The Telegraph notes that Harpsden has an “active local community” and a good location, with it being close to Henley Golf Club as well as London and Reading.

The newspaper’s writers said: “On the periphery of Henley-on-Thames and the Chiltern Hills National Landscape, this well-connected village is only half a mile to the Isis, making it part of the golden stretch of riverside villages between London and Reading.

“The church, St Margaret of Antioch, is social, putting on get-togethers, lunches and concerts, while the pretty village hall and playing fields host everything from dance classes and the Henley Players Theatre Group to cricket and football.

“It is also near Henley Golf Club.”

How to spend a day in and around Harpsden

With Harpsden being a quiet village, visitors could start their day with a wander around, but later make the move across to Henley, where there are some great activities.

Harpsden and Peveril Woods

If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy some nature in Harpsden, head to the Woodland Trust’s Harpsden and Peveril Woods – woodland that “offers a variety of circular walks to explore”.

It’s ideal for those who want “to spend a peaceful afternoon connecting with the natural world”, the Woodland Trust says.

Make it more lively by inviting your friends and family, and even your dog.

You can make the walk more interesting by keeping an eye out for the local wildlife and flowers that are possible to see here, including tawny owls, sparrowhawks, bluebells and more.

Henley Golf Club

If you would prefer to perfect your technique, you could play a round of golf with your nearest and dearest or enjoy a solo trip to Henley Golf Club, located in Harpsden.

Visitors have been impressed with the courses here, sharing their experiences on Google Reviews, where the golf club has a 4.5 rating from 109 reviews.

One person commented: “Lovely course really enjoyed the visit reasonably challenging but forgiving so something for everyone.

“Very well maintained with excellent greens.

“Look forward to visiting again soon!”

Another shared: “Thoroughly enjoyed playing Henley GC yesterday.

“In fantastic condition ”.

The Anchor Inn

If you’ve worked up an appetite, you could stop at The Anchor Inn on Friday Street, close to the River Thames in Henley.

The pub describes itself as a place “where classic charm meets modern dining” on its website.

Its menu includes the likes of Sirloin Steak Frites, Day Boat Fish ‘N’ Chips, Moving Mountains Burger and more.

You can also try the pub’s Sunday roast with all the trimmings.

One customer said they were impressed with the traditional meal served at the pub, commenting on Google Reviews: “We visited The Anchor Inn on Sunday after a walk along the river, and I’ll admit I was slightly hesitant beforehand after reading a couple of mixed reviews online.

“However, I’m really glad we decided to make up our own minds.

“First of all, the location is fantastic, just a stone’s throw from the river in Henley-on-Thames.

“On the day we visited it was beautifully sunny, and the beer garden was great and had the sun the whole time we were there.

“The Sunday roast was excellent with generous portions, had everything a roast would need.

“It was one of the better roasts we’ve had in Henley, and great value for the quality.

“Service was friendly and efficient, and the whole place had a welcoming, laid back atmosphere.

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“It felt like a proper local pub.

“All in all, I’m really pleased we didn’t let a few online comments put us off.

“We’ll absolutely be back, especially on another sunny Sunday.”

Henley has plenty of cafes and restaurants, so you can stop for more food and drink throughout the day.

Shopping in Henley

If you feel like you’ve restored your energy and want to continue exploring, Henley has a variety of shops and galleries for you to browse.

You can peruse The Lemongrove Gallery, Amber Galleries, Asquiths Teddy Bear Shop, Space NK, Mint Velvet and more.

Have you spent the day in Harpsden and Henley? Let us know your favourite spots in the comments below.