Reading
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.
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!
Music
Reading
Down at the Abbey is an independent music festival in the Reading Abbey Ruins.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
Free Event
Reading
The Love Unites 2025 Reading Pride event and parade brings the spirit of Pride to the centre of Reading and provides an opportunity for groups, organisations and individuals to show their support for both Pride and the ongoing campaign for equality.
Walking Tour
Reading
Terry set up his guided walks of Reading to pass on his love of local history and culture, Reading’s famous people, its myths and battles, gardens, architecture, gardens, buildings and so much more and also to get himself fitter!
Restaurant
Reading
Opened in 2020, The Reading Room at the Roseate Hotel Reading offers delicious modern cuisine revolving around the freshest, seasonal ingredients and best of British produce from Executive Chef Rajesh Maharjan.
Shopping Centre
Reading
One of the region’s premier shopping destinations, located on the banks of the River Kennet in the heart of Reading town centre.
Free Event
Reading
Reading is located on the Kennet Canal in Berkshire and every year they celebrate this wonderful waterway with an annual festival - Water Fest!
Showing off the Kennet Canal in all its glory, along with the gorgeous and historic spots on its…
Bar
Reading
The menus at the Lido have a strong Spanish and Mediterranean feel adding to the ‘holiday’ atmosphere of the venue.
Boutique Hotel
Reading
Retro Industrial Chic hotel with 24 uniquely decorated rooms in the heart of Reading centre.
Reading
With much of the original structure retained, this 18th Century Flour Mill has been converted into a renowned Dinner Theatre. Patrons enjoy a fresh home-cooked meal - with not a microwave in sight! -before watching the performance in our theatre.
Restaurant
Reading
With much of the original structure retained, this 18th Century Flour Mill has been converted into a renowned Dinner Theatre. Patrons enjoy a fresh home-cooked meal - with not a microwave in sight! -before watching the performance in our theatre.
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…
Tour
Reading
New for 2026, hop on the Sonning Mill Ferry in Caversham with Thames Rivercruise and sail up the River Thames all the way to the Mill at Sonning.
Serves Local Produce
Reading
Every Wednesday and Friday lunchtime, Blue Collar takes over Market Place to provide flavours from around the world from a range of top-quality street food outlets. Jamaican jerk chicken, Peruvian flavours or Vegan treats are regulars.
© Visit South East England 2026. All Rights Reserved
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