2025 Reading Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Reading, Berkshire, offers a delightful blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Explore its vibrant town centre, discover fascinating museums, and enjoy the beautiful green spaces along the River Kennet. A perfect base for exploring both the town and wider Berkshire. Tourist Attractions: Forbury Gardens: A beautiful green space in the heart of Reading, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic. It offers stunning floral displays and historical significance. Reading Museum: Discover Reading's rich history and heritage through engaging exhibits. Explore local archaeology, art, and social history. The Oracle Shopping Centre: A large shopping mall with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema. It's a great place for retail therapy and entertainment. Reading has a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures year-round, so pack layers to adapt to changing weather. The summer months (June-August) are popular for visiting due to warmer temperatures and outdoor events. Getting around Reading is easy with its efficient bus network and train connections to London and other major cities. Enjoy your time!

Location: Abbey Street, Reading RG1 3HW, United Kingdom During my time in Reading, one of the most memorable stops was the Reading Abbey Ruins. Tucked just behind Forbury Gardens, this peaceful historic site felt like stepping into another time. The abbey dates back to the 12th century and was once one of the most important religious sites in England. Walking among the crumbling stone arches and quiet pathways, I could feel the weight of centuries of history. It’s hard to believe that King Henry I was buried here and that these ruins once formed a huge, thriving monastery. There were a few signs explaining the site’s past, but what stood out most to me was the atmosphere—calm, slightly mysterious, and beautifully still. The soft rustling of leaves, birdsong, and distant footsteps created the perfect setting for a slow, thoughtful walk. If you’re visiting Reading, take a moment to explore the Abbey Ruins. It’s free, quiet, and full of stories hidden in stone.

If you're a fan of picturesque strolls through history, Reading in Berkshire has some fantastic walking trails waiting for you to explore! One of the standout routes is Friar's Walk, a peaceful path with ties to the town’s fascinating past. 🏙️🌿 Friar's Walk: A Step Back in Time ⏳ Located in the heart of Reading, Friar's Walk once played an important role in the life of the town. Named after the Franciscan Friars who once occupied the area in the Middle Ages, this scenic walk takes you along a blend of natural beauty and historic landmarks. The walk leads you past lush greenery and charming nooks, making it a perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature and history. 🌳🌺 Other Notable Walks in Reading 🚶♂️ If you’re looking to explore more, Reading has several other incredible walks that will transport you through history and stunning landscapes: 1. The Thames Path 🌊: Following the River Thames, this scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the waterway, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. You’ll also pass historical sites like the Reading Abbey, a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, offering a glimpse into the past. 🏰 2. Forbury Gardens 🌸: A beautiful green space, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The **Forbury Gardens** also hold significance, as they’re home to the famous **Maiwand Lion**, a war memorial that commemorates the soldiers who fought in the Second Anglo-Afghan War. 🦁 3. Caversham Court Gardens 🌷: Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer peace and tranquility. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing walk while soaking in the views across the river. 4. The Kennet and Avon Canal Walk 🚤: For those who enjoy waterway walks, this historic canal walk is an excellent choice. It runs through Reading and provides a unique view of the town’s industrial past, complete with picturesque towpaths and charming locks. 🚲 Reading: A Place of History, Nature, and Adventure 🌍 Reading is filled with both historical landmarks and natural beauty, making it a perfect place for a day out on foot. Whether you're walking along the serene Friar's Walk or exploring the grand history along the Thames Path, there’s something for everyone. Don't forget to pack your camera—you won’t want to miss these incredible views! 📸 Ready to lace up your walking shoes? Start your adventure with Friar’s Walk, and let Reading’s charm

🌟[Reading, a hidden gem in the UK]🌟 Today, I want to recommend a hidden gem in the UK - Reading! Although it is not as famous as London or Edinburgh, its unique charm will make you fall in love with it at first sight. [Transportation] Reading is very convenient to get to. It takes only about 30 minutes to get there from London Paddington Station, making it a perfect choice for a weekend getaway! The train travels through the fields, and the scenery outside the window is beautiful. [Sights] Reading Abbey: This is one of the iconic buildings in Reading. Although only ruins remain, you can still feel its former glory. Walking through the ruins of the abbey, you can almost hear the echoes of history, with every brick and tile telling an ancient story. Reading Museum: The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and artworks, from Egyptian mummies to medieval armor. The museum is free to visit, which is very friendly. Reading Arts Center: If you are an art lover, this is a must-see. The arts center often hosts various exhibitions and performances, from contemporary art to classical music, so you can always find something you like. [Food] Reading Market: This is a great place to taste local food. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and various snacks are all mouth-watering. I especially recommend the kebabs here, which are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a fragrant aroma. Indian restaurants: There are many Indian restaurants in Reading, and the food is very authentic. Curry chicken, naan, and Indian pancakes are all full of exotic flavors. [Accommodation] There are many accommodation options in Reading, from affordable hostels to comfortable hotels. I personally recommend staying in the city center, as it is convenient for transportation and there are many restaurants and attractions nearby. [Activities] If you come to Reading in the summer, you must attend the Reading Festival! It is one of the largest music festivals in the UK and attracts countless music fans every year. Here, you can see various styles of music performances and party with friends from all over the world. [Photography] Reading has beautiful scenery and is perfect for photography. You can go to the Thames River, where there are beautiful river views and old buildings. Or you can go to the University of Reading, where the campus is full of trees and has different architectural styles. In short, Reading is a charming city where history and culture lovers and foodies can find their own fun.

Hey guys👫, today I'm taking you on a virtual tour of the hidden gem that is Reading, UK. Every corner of this charming town is full of character, and I guarantee you'll fall in love with it instantly!🏞️ Must-visit attractions Reading Town🏘️: As soon as you step into Reading, you'll be greeted by a strong Gothic vibe. The ancient brickwork seems to whisper stories of the past. Stroll along the winding paths, and the buildings on either side seem to have a time filter. You might even come across street performers playing classical music, adding to the atmosphere. St. George's Tower👀: Climb up St. George's Tower, and you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Reading. The buildings in the distance are arranged in an orderly fashion, and the bustling streets form a symphony of urban life. Take a deep breath, feel the breeze on your face, and let all your worries drift away. Riverside Park🥪: When you're tired of exploring, head to Riverside Park, a paradise on earth! The lake is crystal clear, and the banks are lined with lush trees and colorful flowers. Find a flat patch of grass, lay out a picnic blanket, and enjoy a leisurely picnic with delicious snacks and fruit. The sound of birds singing and the picturesque scenery will fill you with happiness. Royal Reading Museum⏳: To learn more about Reading's past and present, be sure to visit the Royal Reading Museum. The museum is filled with antiques and artworks, from ancient ceramics to exquisite paintings, each carrying a piece of history. As you wander through the museum, you'll feel like you're traveling through time, conversing with the past. Convenient transportation guide Plane to train🚄: Fly to London first, as there are many flights to Heathrow and Gatwick airports. After landing, take a train to Reading, which takes just half an hour. You'll be treated to stunning views of the English countryside along the way, a feast for the eyes. Getting around the city🚕: In Reading, the bus network is extensive, with frequent stops. If you prefer more freedom, you can easily hail a taxi on the street and reach your desired attractions with ease. Thoughtful itinerary planning Explore Reading in one day! In the morning, immerse yourself in the history of Reading Town. At noon, enjoy authentic British cuisine at a local restaurant, such as fish and chips or shepherd's pie. In the afternoon, climb St. George's Tower for a panoramic view, then relax at Riverside Park. In the evening, visit the Royal Reading Museum to end your day with a dose of history and art. Which Reading attraction are you most excited about💓? Or do you have any useful travel tips to share? Leave a comment below👇, and let's chat!

🌈Reading Day Trip Guide🌈 1. Itinerary Overview This Reading day trip departs from London and focuses on food and sightseeing. This guide is divided into several sections, including transportation, food recommendations, and sightseeing recommendations, to help you have a fun and relaxing day. 2. Transportation🚗 From London, you can take a train🚞 to Reading, which takes about half an hour. Once you arrive in Reading, you can use local buses🚌 or taxis🚕 to get between attractions. 3. Food Recommendations👍 1. Osaka Restaurant: Located in the Reading Riverside Shopping🛍️ Center, this restaurant offers Japanese ramen🍜, sushi🍣, and other delicious food at a reasonable price. It's a great place to try Japanese food. 2. Other Food: Reading also has many other foods, such as traditional English afternoon tea☕️ and local snacks. You can choose according to your taste. 4. Sightseeing Recommendations 1. Reading Museum: Located on Blagrave Street, this museum showcases the history and culture of Reading and the surrounding area. It's a great place to learn about local history. 2. Abbey Ruins: Located in the Abbey Walk area, you can admire the ancient church⛪️ ruins and feel the weight of history. 3. University of Reading: The University of Reading is a famous British university. The campus is beautiful, and the buildings are spectacular. It's worth a visit. 5. Travel Tips 1. Plan Your Time⏰: Plan your itinerary and time according to the opening hours and distances of the attractions to avoid missing out on exciting attractions. 2. Pay Attention⚠️ to Safety: During your trip, pay attention to your safety, follow the rules of the attractions, and do not🙅 climb or touch cultural relics. 3. Shopping and Souvenirs: You can buy local souvenirs and handicrafts in the attractions as a souvenir or gift for family and friends. 6. Summary A Reading day trip is a fun and relaxing travel option where you can try local food, visit attractions, and experience history and culture. During your trip, pay attention⚠️ to safety and plan your time wisely. We believe you will have an unforgettable travel🧳 experience.

🌲In the southern English countryside lies a charming town called Reading. While it may not be as famous as London or Edinburgh, Reading attracts travelers seeking inner peace and natural beauty with its unique tranquility, natural beauty, and rich history. From London, you can take the convenient Elizabeth Line subway and reach this peaceful place in just one hour. The sky in Reading is pure and high, with a smog index that has never exceeded 3, making you feel as if you are in the embrace of nature. No matter the season, the town is full of blooming flowers, bright and colorful, decorating every corner and showcasing the most authentic and brilliant side of nature. 🌲🌲Strolling through the streets and alleys of Reading, you will be captivated by the historical atmosphere. The ancient abbey ruins and stone-built churches lead you to a beautiful and mysterious fountain. It is said that a king was buried here, but which king remains unknown, adding a sense of mystery to the history that makes you stop and ponder. Although Reading University is not in the city center, its garden-like campus atmosphere is definitely worth your time to experience. 🌹🌹The museums in Reading are also worth exploring. There are not only educational sections for children but also three hidden bears waiting to be discovered. There is even a gallery dedicated to the history of a biscuit company, with exquisite biscuit boxes in the windows that are hard to resist. In addition, the charity shops in the city center are great places to shop, with affordable prices and a wide variety of items. You might find a unique souvenir here. 🌺🌺Of course, when you come to Reading, you must try the local cuisine. Although some restaurants may not meet your expectations, Reading's food culture is still rich and colorful. You can try a variety of flavors and experience the collision and fusion of different cultures. 🚘🚘In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Reading's public transportation is also very convenient. The colorful buses add a touch of fun to the city. Whether you take a train or a bus, you can easily reach any place you want to go. 🌺🌺In Reading, you can slow down and savor the tranquility and beauty. Whether sitting on a bench in Forbury Gardens or strolling along the Thames, you can feel the peace and freedom within. This is a small world isolated from the world, allowing you to shed the burdens of life, travel light, and go deep into your heart and far beyond. 🌲🌲🌲🌲So, if you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, why not take a walk in Reading? Here, you will find the tranquility, nature, and beauty you long for. Let's embark on this journey of the soul and nature together!🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

The well-curated museum is filled with fascinating details of rural life. An added bonus is the wonderful little cafe serving delicious cakes! They also have a nice garden area with seating and a nice museum shop. Well worth a visit.

On the highway from the town where we live in the direction of #reading, you will occasionally see signs for Beale Wildlife Park🪧. We haven't had the chance to go on a pilgrimage because the entrance fee for a family of four is not cheap🤫 accidentally found out that the price is now on sale! To give myself an excuse to take the big and small princess on a pilgrimage during the term break🙃 Beale Wildlife Park's animals are divided into small endangered animals, birds, farmhouse animals, the park has a large recreational garden, children's favorite playground, sensory play, and even a swimming pool😳 (of course the weather is cold and not open 🤣) Personally, I think the bird variety here is richer, the birds are larger in size, look more lively, and there is more space between the birds. I just saw the staff taking measures to keep out the animals, adding several wooden strips to the periphery of the animal cage to shield the wind, the staff will nail wooden boards while talking to the animals in the cage💬 This subtle interaction shows that the employees in the park are still very passionate about their job🔥 really rare💗 A special mention of tickets includes a mini train tour, which travels around the park and takes us to see the animals from another perspective. The entire park covers an area of ​​142 hectares, which may be more like a protected area so it is more empty and particularly windy, even with a little sun it is still shady and cold🥶 Reflection 💡 Before I go I will hesitate if this admission is worth it After entering it gave me the urge to buy his annual pass After reading the price of the annual pass, I have to think again😂 📍 Beale Park Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NW Follow us #mimimomoma Let's explore 👀 #mimimomoexplore #happykids #uklife #mrsisterhood #happychildhood #parentdaylife #UK Parent-Child Travel #Parent-Child Good Places

Reading is a town in the west, 59 kilometers west of London, where the pace of life is relatively leisurely. The Oracle, a shopping mall located in the center of Reading, has a very beautiful and comfortable surrounding environment. There is a river, River Kennet, next to the mall. Many people take a walk along the river after school or get off work. There are also street performers at the door. There are also a lot of green areas in the area. You can stroll around Forbury Park next to the train station. The highlight of the garden is the rose garden, which is a great place to take a picnic with you in the summer and find a piece of grass to enjoy a leisurely picnic with friends. #See the Earth in an instant

Reading is half an hour by train from London and 1 hour by car. Parking 2 hours 3 pounds, Shopping mall parking 2 hours 4 pounds, have also seen some parking lots 2 hours 3 pounds, but too old and narrow and seems not very safe. If you don't want to go to London shopping mall too crowded, you can go to Reading walk The Oracle, there is a Ben Cookies at the door, recently there is a promotion, 3 get 1, 5 get 2, like to eat soft cookies must try it. #See the Earth in an instant #LocalTour

The place is not big but there are IKEA, free parking, and there is a bus stop outside. There are all the basic furniture, there are not many people, it is quite comfortable to walk, you can walk slowly. Join member can also participate in their local Events, many of which are parent-child activities. Another place to eat in the restaurant is quite comfortable and quite clean, in the children's area location. Note: If you are a college student, you can still buy a full 75-10 #greenlife #localtour #see the earth in an instant

The Coppa Club is a London Western restaurant chain. The best landscaped red transparent glass house is the Tower Bridge, located five minutes from the London tower bridge. Due to popularity, this restaurant needs to be booked in advance on the official website. For example, the time and location in February will be released in the official website in late January. We started booking early in the morning, but still failed. Book the day you want most. This winter, the Tower Bridge store has also refurbished the interior, adding some white furry wool blankets and cushions and heating so that it won't be cold in the glass house. Each glass house can only sit five to six people. If the number is too small, it may not be available. The best of the landscape is of course the first ball closest to Tower Bridge. After the lights are lit in the evening, you can enjoy the night view of the Thames, and the landmark building can be seen at a glance. dishes Western-style light meal location, mainly salad, pasta, steak and roast chicken, the price is not high in London, the taste is average, but wins in the environment.

Wow! I am truly impressed by how delightful this hotel was. Given the price, I didn't anticipate it being as nice as it turned out to be. We stayed here for a single night with my family for my son's birthday as part of a Legoland package. Check-in was swift, the room was spotless, and the staff were fantastic. Sully at breakfast was absolutely extraordinary. They sang happy birthday to my son, brought him a small cake, offered treats to the kids, and kept them entertained throughout breakfast. Their effort to engage with the children truly made a difference. Thank you! We are definitely coming back, thanks and special thanks to Sully!!

I purchased a Wowcher voucher for a cream tea. Wow! The experience exceeded my expectations. My daughter and I had a reserved table, and the ambiance was remarkably comfortable and clean. The staff were courteous, friendly, and welcoming. The food was incredible—flavourful and delicious. The crème brûlée was heavenly. We savored teas alongside mini burgers, fish tacos, and chicken wings, all cooked to perfection. The warm scones at the end were delightful. I plan to return with my sons for steak night and have signed up for a Malmaison membership. Thank you, Malmaison Reading, for a lovely experience; much appreciated. Rebecca and Kairo, London.

What is the best date place in Reading? #reading #date

#hellohalloween October activity for fun 😝

Vk#uk

We surprised the kids after 4 months who hadn't seen each other; priceless moments and they enjoyed every minute.

📅 Itinerary Day1: Explore Reading Abbey Ruins and relax in nearby Forbury Gardens, grab lunch by the river and spend the afternoon in the Oracle shopping centre Day2: day trip to London or Oxford, just 30 mins by train Day3: take a stroll through Caversham and explore the canal and river Thames 🍴 Food Recommendations: - Blue Collar Street Food market has a range of tasty street food options - London Street Brasserie for an excellent dining option - Market House is a great bar with food, and games too - The SOJU for Korean BBQ (see photo)

#ThamesPath Having bought most of my travel tickets through Trip I cashed out my coins to make my last Reading journey a bit cheaper. Caught the bus from Reading to Shillingstone on Thames and walked a very very long 40km to Oxford on narrow muddy paths. Saw my first Great White Egret.

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📅 Itinerary Day1：London Paddington Montcalm Day2: Reading Voco Hotel Day3: Home to Essex 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations Ivy Marylebone 📌 Tips

Right in the heart of Reading, you’ll find the ruins of Reading Abbey, once one of the most important monasteries in medieval England. Founded by King Henry I in 1121, the abbey was a grand place of worship and even became the king’s burial site. Today, you can wander through the atmospheric ruins, explore the Abbey Quarter, and imagine the scale of what was once here. It’s free to visit, with plenty of history boards to guide you along. Just a short walk from Reading station, the abbey makes a perfect mix of history and a relaxing city stroll. #readingabbey

Got to enjoy the Sushi and Yakisoba from Osaka in Reading. They got some variety of Japanese dishes that my family loves especially my daughters.#japanese_food

📅 Itinerary Day1：Morning: • Visit Reading Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens (beautiful park). • Afternoon: • Head to The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) or Reading Museum (great if you like history & art). • Evening: • Stroll around the Oracle Shopping Centre & Riverside, enjoy riverside dining or shopping. Day2: Morning: • Take a walk along the Thames Path. • Visit Caversham Court Gardens (historic riverside gardens). • Afternoon: • Explore Basildon Park (National Trust, grand house & countryside). • Evening: • Return to Reading, maybe catch a show at The Hexagon Theatre or enjoy a riverside pub. Day3: Windsor (30 min by train) – Windsor Castle & town. • Option 2: Henley-on-Thames (20 min by train) – riverside town famous for rowing. • Option 3: Stay in Reading – visit Madejski Stadium if you like football, or relax at Prospect Park. 🏨 Accommodation : Premier Inn Reading Central 🍴 Food Recommendations : Breakfast/Brunch: Picnic Foods, Shed, Fidget & Bob (great coffee + pastries) • Lunch: Market House (rooftop vibes, street food stalls), Bluegrass BBQ • Dinner: London Street Brasserie (fine dining by the river), Valpy Street Bar & Bistro, Pepe Sale (Italian) • Pubs: The Botanist, Zerodegrees (brewery), The Nag’s Head (cosy ale pub) 📌 Tips : Reading is only 25 min from London Paddington by train – easy to combine with London. • Most main attractions are walkable from the town centre. • If visiting in summer, check Reading Festival (late August, music lovers). • Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll walk along the riverside a lot. • Book accommodation early if visiting during big events (festival, football, Henley Regatta).

Reading is a vibrant town in Berkshire that’s perfect for a day trip from London—just a quick 25-minute train ride away. At its heart is the impressive Reading Museum, where you can dive into local history and see the full-size Bayeux Tapestry replica. Right next door stands the grand Town Hall, a striking Victorian landmark. Don’t miss Reading Minster, one of the oldest churches in Berkshire, which adds a touch of medieval charm. With bustling shops, riverside walks, and a mix of old and new, Reading is more than just a commuter town—it’s a destination worth exploring.#reading