Let's start our adventure by discovering the forest treasures of Berkshire. Our first stop is Swinley Forest, a true paradise for lovers of nature and active recreation. This vast forest complex, located near Bracknell, offers excellent conditions for hiking, cycling and wildlife watching. Admission to the forest is free, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers. Swinley Forest is famous for its diverse trails of varying difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Families with children will appreciate the gentle paths, while more experienced hikers can choose more challenging trails.

Another place worth visiting is Burnham Beeches, a unique nature reserve managed by the City of London Corporation. This place impresses with its centuries-old trees, some as old as 800-1000 years! Admission to the reserve is free, and parking costs just £3 for a full day at weekends (as of 2023). Burnham Beeches offers a network of well-marked trails that lead through scenic woods and meadows. It's the perfect place for a picnic and a quiet break in nature.

For those looking for slightly more varied terrain, a visit to Finchampstead Ridges is recommended. Managed by the National Trust, this small but charming park offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Admission is free, although a small fee may be charged for parking. Finchampstead Ridges is a great place for a short but brisk walk to enjoy the Berkshire skyline.

Comparing the three places, it is worth noting that Swinley Forest offers the most opportunities for a variety of activities, including cycling, which may be attractive to families with children. Burnham Beeches stands out for its historical value and majestic trees, ideal for nature and photography enthusiasts. Finchampstead Ridges, on the other hand, though the smallest of the three, offers the most scenic views. All of these places have one thing in common - they are an excellent choice for budget travelers, offering free or very inexpensive access to Berkshire's natural beauty.

Continuing our journey through Berkshire, we can't leave out The Ridgeway National Trail - one of the oldest trails in Europe. This historic trail offers unforgettable views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Although The Ridgeway stretches 87 miles, you can choose a shorter section to explore, tailored to your ability and time. Admission to the trail is free, making it an ideal choice for frugal travelers. However, be sure to bring appropriate footwear and a supply of water, especially on warmer days.

Another place worth noting is the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. This vast area of protected landscape offers breathtaking views, picturesque villages and fascinating prehistoric monuments. Admission to the North Wessex Downs is free, although a small fee may be charged for parking in some areas. This is an ideal destination for a day trip, where you can combine hiking with exploring local history and culture.

For those looking for slightly less traveled routes, a visit to Cock Marsh is recommended. This picturesque site, located on the banks of the Thames River, offers peaceful walks among meadows and wetlands. Admission is free, and the place is especially beautiful at sunset. Cock Marsh is also a great place for bird and wildlife watching.

If you're looking for a short but intense route with panoramic views, be sure to visit Combe Gibbet. This historic site, known for its former gallows, offers some of the best views in Berkshire. A short but steep walk to the top of the hill will reward you with an amazing panoramic view of the area. Admission and parking are free, making this place another spot ideal for budget travelers.

Comparing these places, The Ridgeway National Trail offers the most extensive trail network and the most opportunities for long hikes. The North Wessex Downs stands out for its variety of landscapes and cultural attractions, ideal for those interested in the region's history. Cock Marsh is the least well-known of these places, meaning you can enjoy more peace and privacy here. Combe Gibbet, on the other hand, while offering the shortest route, rewards you with the most spectacular views.

All of these places have one thing in common - they are available for free or for a small fee, making them ideal for travelers on a budget. Each offers unique experiences and views, allowing you to deeply experience the beauty and diversity of Berkshire.

To conclude our tour of Berkshire, we'd like to introduce you to a few lesser-known but equally fascinating places and share practical tips to help you plan a budget trip.

Let's start with Snelsmore Common Country Park - a place often overlooked by tourists, but well worth discovering. The park offers extensive moorland, woods and ponds, perfect for quiet walks and nature observation. Admission to the park is free, and parking costs just £2 for the whole day (as of 2023). It's a great place to picnic and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Another hidden treasure is the National Trust's Cookham Common. This scenic spot offers beautiful views of the Thames and the surrounding hills. Admission is free for National Trust members, and a small fee is charged for others. Cookham Common is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the typical English landscape.

We should also not miss Donnington Castle, the picturesque ruins of a medieval castle. Although mostly ruins remain of the castle, the site offers a fascinating history lesson and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Admission is free, making it another spot ideal for frugal travelers.

Comparing these sites, Snelsmore Common Country Park offers the greatest variety of landscapes and trails, ideal for families with children. Cookham Common stands out for its beautiful views of the Thames and is the best choice for leisurely walks. Donnington Castle, though the smallest of the sites, offers a unique historical experience and is ideal for those interested in English history.

Practical tips for budget travelers:

1. transportation: use local buses or consider renting a bicycle - it not only saves money, but is also a great way to explore the area.

2. Accommodations: Look for hostels, campgrounds or use the Couchsurfing platform. During the summer season, consider staying 'under the cloud' in permitted areas.

3 Food: Prepare your own meals and pack lunches for trips. Local markets and stores offer fresh produce at affordable prices.

4. Sightseeing: Take advantage of free attractions and parks. Many museums offer free admission or discounts on certain days.

5. Planning: Check out local events and festivals - they often offer free attractions and are a great way to learn about the region's culture.

6. Apps: Use apps like 'Too Good To Go' that allow you to buy inexpensive meals from restaurants and cafes at the end of the day.

Remember that exploring Berkshire on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing quality of experience. On the contrary, it allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the region, its nature and culture. Whether you choose to stroll through scenic forests, hike a historic trail or explore medieval ruins, Berkshire has much to offer for any traveler, regardless of your wallet. Enjoy your adventure and discover the beauty of this unique county!