Thatcham
| Thatcham | |
|---|---|
| Market town and civil parish | |
Thatcham town centre | |
Location within Berkshire | |
| Area | 21.76 km2 (8.40 sq mi) |
| Population | 25,464 (2021 Census) |
| • Density | 1,170/km2 (3,000/sq mi) |
| OS grid reference | SU5167 |
| Civil parish |
|
| Unitary authority | |
| Ceremonial county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | THATCHAM |
| Postcode district | RG18, RG19 |
| Dialling code | 01635 |
| Police | Thames Valley |
| Fire | Royal Berkshire |
| Ambulance | South Central |
| UK Parliament | |
Thatcham is a market town and civil parish in West Berkshire, England. It is situated in the valley of the River Kennet 3 miles (4.8 km) east of Newbury, 14 miles (23 km) west of Reading and 54 miles (87 km) west of London. The town has a long history dating back to prehistoric times, a claimant to the title of oldest continuously inhabited place in Great Britain. As of 2021, it had a population of 25,464, though it is part of a built-up area comprising itself and neighbouring Newbury of over 70,000 residents. It is on the route of the A4 Bath Road, the historic main road between London and Bristol.