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: 45
, currently showing 1 to 20.
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…
Music
Reading
Down at the Abbey is an independent music festival in the Reading Abbey Ruins.
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…
Museum
Reading
Explore ten galleries of historic and artistic objects in Reading’s Victorian Town Hall.
Tour
Reading
Book now to enjoy an official Abbey Quarter Tour, Reading which includes exclusive access to Jane Austen's school.
Available from Saturday 5 April 25 until 27th September 2025, explore the heart of Reading with an official Reading Museum tour guide.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Hotel
READING
Holiday Inn Reading South provides the perfect base for your stay in Reading, whether you are visiting the Reading Rock Festival, taking the kids to Legoland or visiting the nearby Business Parks.
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.
Shopping Centre
Reading
Elegant 1930s covered arcade home to a unique collection of independent & specialist shops in Reading town centre.
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.
Walking Tour
Reading
Tours2order is run by Blue Badge Tourist Guide Graham Horn. We can offer many different tours in Reading, Chilterns and the Thames Valley.
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…
Boat Trip
Caversham
The perfect venue for a boat trip along the River Thames.
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.
Bar
Reading
The menus at the Lido have a strong Spanish and Mediterranean feel adding to the ‘holiday’ atmosphere of the venue.
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