Nestled along the River Thames, just six minutes from the charming village of Goring-on-Thames, Streatley-on-Thames offers a tranquil haven steeped in history and culture. This idyllic location is also home to Coombe House Residential Care Home, where residents enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside and the area’s remarkable literary connections.
One of the most celebrated figures associated with this region is Oscar Wilde, the renowned playwright and poet. In the summer of 1893, Wilde stayed at Ferry House in Goring, where he found inspiration to begin his masterpiece, An Ideal Husband. The village left such an permanent mark on Wilde that he named one of the play’s central characters Lord Goring, forever linking his work to this picturesque area.
The legacy of Wilde’s creative genius is reflected in the timeless charm of Goring and Streatley. The two villages, connected by the iconic Goring and Streatley Bridge, boast breathtaking views of the Thames, framed by the rolling Berkshire Downs and Chiltern Hills. This unique setting combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it an inspiring place for both residents and visitors.
At Coombe House Residential Care Home, we celebrate the region’s rich literary and historical heritage, creating a vibrant and stimulating environment for our residents.
We’re delighted to share that Coombe House recently took part in Newbury Corn Exchange’s ‘Ageing Creatively Project’, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and Greenham Arts Trust. This inspiring initiative connects primary schools and care homes across West Berkshire through meaningful intergenerational projects.
One exciting opportunity was the ‘Words Together’ project, in which a poet guided our residents through a series of uplifting poetry workshops, leading to a collaboration with students from Streatley Primary School on a shared theme. The project culminated in a heartwarming visit, where the children performed their poetry for our residents. The initiative proved to be a wonderful way to foster intergenerational bonds and celebrate creativity within our community.
Whether reflecting on Oscar Wilde’s literary legacy or embracing the serene beauty of our surroundings, Coombe House is a place where history, literature, and tranquillity come together. It’s a home inspired by the stories and landscapes of Streatley-on-Thames—a place that continues to captivate all who experience its charm.
More details about the Ageing Creatively project can be found by downloading the West Berkshire Council document:
Arts, Health and Wellbeing
Discover and read more about the history of Goring and Streatley through the centuries:
Genienews
National Trust has scenic 3-mile circular walk around the meadows and woodlands that form the backdrop to the village of Streatley on the west side of the Goring Gap in West Berkshire:
National Trust - Meadows and Woodlands of Streatley
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