Berkshire, in the south of England, is one of England's oldest counties, dating from the time when King Alfred the Great set the County Boundaries and takes its name from the large forest of birch trees that once grew there. Windsor Castle lies in Berkshire and in 1974 the county has been recognised by HM Queen as the Royal County of Berkshire. The Rivers Kennet and Thames flow through the county creating fertile valleys and beautiful rivers capes along their course. The Ridgeway National Trail crosses the Downs in the north west of the County. Berkshire is a scenic county, often referred to as 'Royal Berkshire' due to its association with the Royal family and their home Windsor Castle, and Ascot Racecourse.