Credit Great West Way
Reading dates back to medieval times, shaped by the River Thames and Kennet that encircle the town centre. Modern-day Reading embraces its heritage and waterside location as part of a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination.
Reading Abbey Ruins are 900 years old, remaining from the time of King Henry I and there is lots more heritage to enjoy in the town’s wonderful Georgian and Victorian buildings. Being a University town, Reading has a selection of fine museums and a social life to match and our waterside location provides opportunities for watersports, boat trips and riverside dining.
Reading has a lovely scale to it. Everything is walkable – the town centre, access to the river, the Abbey Quarter district and the modern railway station. Big enough to offer a diverse experience without the drawbacks of the big city.
You’ll find Reading has one of the best choices of accommodation in the South East outside London, as well as being one of the UK’s best-connected destinations, which makes it a great base for exploring the Great West Way, the Chilterns, Silchester Roman City walls, the Thames Path or nearby Windsor, Henley or Oxford.
Need somewhere to stay? Described as 'The UK's Sexiest Townhouse Hotel' by The Evening Standard, The Roseate Reading is also recognised for its artful conception and luxury. The hotel prides itself on it's attention to detail, to the facilities available to make a stay cherished and memorable.
You can now reach Reading directly on the Elizabeth Line (free for Freedom Pass holders).
For a list of attractions and accommodation in Reading, see the listings at the foot of this page or:-
For more ideas and inspiration on where to stay, what's on and things to do in Reading visit the official website, Visit-Reading.com
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Number of results: 51
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Childrens Events
Reading
Reading town centre is preparing for a ROAR-some invasion this summer as giant brick-built dinosaurs arrive for the brand-new Reading Dino Trail, taking place from 25 July to 23 August 2026. The free trail will transform Reading into an epic day…
Free Event
Reading
The Bastille Day Reading Festival returns for its 14th year, bringing the Red, White and Blue to Forbury Gardens this summer. Taking place on the 11th & 12th July this festival brings a touch of France to Berkshire. Full of family fun, this free…
Food
Reading
The Great British Sunday Roast is not just a delightful meal, but also an occasion for entertainment and enjoyment with fun filled activities that include culinary workshops at the ‘Mini-Chef’s Station’, board games, goodie bags and movies in our…
Halloween
Riseley, Reading
Step into a world of magical mischief and playful spooks as Hallo’Welly’Ween returns to Wellington Country Park, Reading for its 13th year!
Festival
Reading
Heritage Open Days tells the stories of everyday lives in Reading this September. The programme for this year's Heritage Open Days celebrations in Reading is now available, online and in print. The annual free heritage festival, which celebrates…
Heritage & History
Reading
Heritage Open Days return to Reading in Berkshire, with behind the scenes tours, guided walks, church open days and talks from the 11th - 20th September 2026. This celebration of the fantastic history and heritage around the town of Reading, offers…
Music
Reading
Down at the Abbey is an independent music festival in the Reading Abbey Ruins.
Performing Arts
Reading
Celebrate Diwali with Kala The Arts as the town comes alive with light, music and movement on Saturday 24 October! Festivities begin at 4:15pm with a community stage performance in Town Hall Square and the Grand Lantern Parade at 5.30pm
Walking Tour
Reading
Looking for things to do in Reading? Discover the hidden gems of our town on an unforgettable Reading walking tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming town as our knowledgeable guides lead you through its…
Leisure / Swimming Pool
Reading
Thames Lido is a restored Victorian outdoor swimming pool which now offers a fully heated pool, hot tub and saunas, massage rooms, restaurant, bar and function room.
Theatre
Reading
A Miss Marple Mystery comes to the Mill at Sonning near Reading this Autumn. The Mirror Crack'd is set in a picture perfect village with a glittering party and a chilling murder.
Department Store
Reading
John Lewis Reading offers six floors of the best in fashion, beauty, home, giftware, technology (including Apple products) and electrical items. Pop in and ask a Partner about our upcoming workshops, tasters and classes.
Museum
Reading
Description: The Ure Museum holds collections of archaeological material, archives and modern artefacts.
Department Store
Kingston upon Thames
John Lewis Kingston offers four floors of the best in fashion, beauty, home, giftware, technology (including Apple products) and electrical items. Pop in and ask a Partner about our upcoming workshops, tasters and classes
Walking
Blake's Lock, Reading
Explore Reading’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring each route.
British Marine
Caversham, Reading
Family business offering a fleet of well maintained traditional cruisers and narrowboats for hire for short breaks and weekly hire. Limited Winter cruising available
Boutique Hotel
Reading
Retro Industrial Chic hotel with 24 uniquely decorated rooms in the heart of Reading centre.
Animal Collection / Zoo
Reading
Located on the banks of the River Thames in Berkshire, Beale Park is home to a unique collection of rare and endangered birds, animals favourites including monkeys, prairie dogs, meerkats and wallabies.
Vegan Friendly
READING
In recent years, Sri Lankan food has been having a moment, with The Times identifying it as a key food trend, and BBC Food attributing its popularity to “most of the food world looking towards exciting new cuisines.”
The Coconut Tree’s take on…
Walking Tour
Reading
Enjoy a walking tour exploring the heart of medieval Reading led by our Official Reading Museum tour guides.
Starting in the Story of Reading Gallery in Reading Museum and continuing outdoors, this tour will lead you on a discovery of the history…
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