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Top Things to Do in Reading

Things to do in reading, explore popular experiences, tours in and around reading.

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The 13 best things to do in Reading

Explore the best things to do in Reading, including seeing centuries-old ruins and visiting the iconic Bayeux tapestry

The best things to do in Reading traverse the centuries, from old abbeys and castles to new creations and innovative cuisines. Not forgetting the taverns too, obvs. This university town doesn't get the attention that its bigger neighbours are afforded, but this gem of a town has plenty to offer.

Berkshire’s biggest town is a celebration of stately homes, shire horses, street art and spa days, with a little Home Counties character thrown in for good measure. Whether you're here for a day, a weekend or a few days, you'll never get bored here. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏘️ The best things to do in Oxford 🌾 The best places to visit in the UK 👀 The best things to do in the UK

At Time Out, all of our   travel guides   are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines .

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Top things to do in Reading

1.  Follow the Thames Path

What is it?  The villages that lie along Berkshire’s waterways are almost all adorable; any of them could be the inspiration for Midsomer Murders. 

Why go?  Local train routes stop at both Pangbourne and Goring-on-Thames, and you can follow the Thames Path between the two. A five-mile walk is enough to make you extra hungry for the inevitable pub lunch at the end. 

Don’t miss:  The Miller of Mansfield in Goring serves delicious gastro-grub when you need to refuel. 

2.  Prop up the bar at The Nag’s Head

What is it?  This provincial pub wins CAMRA’s ‘Central Southern England Pub of the Year’ basically every year. 

Why go?  The drink selection is epic, the walls are decorated with beer mats, and the smoking area is the car park. In the grand scheme of pubs, the Nag's Head ’s an absolute classic. You’re in rural(ish) England now, pal. If you don’t drink at least three pints, you’ll be chucked out. Might as well make them fantastic pints.

3.  See the Bayeux Tapestry at Reading Museum

What is it?  Like all the most interesting collections, Reading Museum started life as a home for an old guy’s weird stuff. 

Why go?  As well as a vast needlework, you’ll see a stone-age hand axe, a woolly rhinoceros fossil, a Reading festival poster from 1980 and a mouth organ shaped like a crab.

Don’t miss: T he Bayeux, obvs. Well, technically, it’s only a Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry… but still, embroidering a 70m comic strip about a Medieval battle takes a lot of effort, even if you’re copying.

4.  Upgrade your lunch at Blue Collar

What is it?  A street food market held each Wednesday and Friday at lunchtime in charming Forbury Gardens, which are on the grounds of the Abbey. Blue Collar , the company behind it, was set up specifically to support Reading’s street food traders and improve the local scene.

Why go?  You will eat well at whichever stall you choose, truly!

5.  Dig up some history at MERL

What is it?  The Museum of English Rural Life will answer every tractor-related question. 

Why go?  Plough into the galleries to learn how farming has progressed over the centuries, do a quick sweep along the Wagon Walk and relax in the lovely gardens.

Don’t go:  A collection of over 20,000 illustrations from Ladybird books is shown off in a permanent gallery. A fun game is to rename them using only emoji.

6.  Visit the mural outside Central Club

What is it?  In 1990 a 36-metre mural was painted on the wall of Central Club to mark the anniversary of South Africa’s Soweto uprising. The community centre itself has been derelict since 2006, but the artwork is as colourful and thought-provoking as ever.

Why go?  Every time the Central Club’s future is in question, there’s been a protest in favour of preserving the mural. It’s definitely not just any old street art.

7.  Get to grips with history at Reading Abbey

What is it?  King Henry I ordered the building of Reading’s once-spectacular Abbey, which also served as a sort of motel for Elizabeth I, a section of Jane Austen’s boarding school and a jail that held Oscar Wilde before crumbling into ruins. 

Why go? The Abbey ruins reopened in June 2018 following a part Lottery, part council-funded refurb. The new events schedule includes drawing workshops, open-air theatre and tour guides in slightly am-dram Medieval costumes.

8.  Reach new heights at Parthian Climbing Reading

What is it? A climbing centre that’s so well furnished you could think you’re challenging Everest if you get really into it.

Why go? Take on one of the 180 bouldering ‘problems’, try rope climbing in an introductory session, abseil down competition walls or just watch from the safety of the cafe.  Word on the wall is that Team GB climbers are regulars here. Even superfans will find that hard to verify, though; it’s really hard to identify people when your aspect is mainly harnessed butt cheeks.

9.  Be dragged down the Kennet and Avon canal

What is it? Reading is the eastern point of the Kennet and Avon canal, which runs all the way to Bristol. Travel it like the Victorians would have: on a horse-drawn barge. Round trips depart from Kintbury, a short train away from Reading.

Why go? The canal brings many people-watching (and duck-watching) opportunities, and the Shire horses are very happy to be social media stars as long as you pay them in carrots.

10.  Check out the nature at View Island

What is it? View Island  near Caversham Lock was upgraded from a derelict boatyard to a nature reserve around 20 years ago. A path loops around the edge, and seating in secluded spots makes peace and quiet wonderfully easy to find.

Why go?  Tree stumps carved into the shape of faces are dotted around the island, peering out from the undergrowth. And the views are lovely, of course; the clue’s in the name.

11.  Splash out at King’s Meadow

What is it?  The beautiful Edwardian women’s swimming baths of King’s Meadow had been derelict for nearly 50 years until a £3.5 million makeover saw them reopen in 2017. 

Why go?  The walls are cleverly designed to act like a one-way mirror – nobody can see in, but swimmers get little glimpses of the towpath traffic between tumble turns.

Don’t miss:  It’s now a spa and a pool, and there’s an on-site restaurant (but don’t eat before you swim, kids).

12.  Get a taste of high society at Highclere Castle

What is it?  If you so much as have a TV license Highclere Castle will probably look familiar; it’s the set of Downton Abbey. 

Why go?  It’s a mecca for fans of all nationalities, but the pristine castle and grounds are a magnificent draw in their own right. Just be warned that it is a 40-minute drive out of town. If you are allergic to period drama, you might yet be persuaded by the fact that Highclere was Peter Andre and Katie Price’s wedding venue. Or you might not.

13.  Places your bets at Newbury Racecourse

What is it?  A 29-minute train journey will take you directly to Newbury Racecourse , the playground of very small men in colourful satin outfits since 1905. 

Why go?  It’s no Ascot, admittedly, but it’s very well-regarded in the racing world and much less uptight.

Don’t miss:  The thrill of the races comes cheap in Newbury; book advance tickets online, and you’ll save even more pennies. Ladies’ Day often features a musical performer, too.

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The 20 best things to do in Reading

The best of Reading: things to do, places to go and areas to check out in Reading, Berkshire – all voted for by local experts.

Welcome to your guide to the very best of Reading. Explore Reading was founded to spotlight everything there is to love about our town and this list does just that. In it, you’ll find 20 of Reading’s best bars, restaurants, outdoor spots, shops, cultural spaces and more – all chosen by a panel of experts, organisers and community leaders. This list has been compiled from all their choices in order, so the number one slot received the most number of votes, and so on.

This list was nominated by the following Reading experts:

Art & culture:  Sarah Hacker, Lead Councillor for Culture, Sport & Consumer Services ; Claire Slobodian, Editor of Explore Reading ; Zsuzsi Page,  Reading Fringe Festival ; John Luther, South Street Arts Centre ; Andrew Ingle, Time Trap Escape Rooms

Community: Ian Caren, CEO of  Launchpad ; Reading Caribbean Cultural Group ;   Reading on Thames;  Jonjo Warrick, Reading Refugee Support Group; The Whitley Pump

Food & drink:  Glen Dinning,  Blue Collar Street Food ;   Edible Reading ; James Moore,  Explore Reading ; Anne-Marie Whitehouse,  The Grumpy Goat ; Enric Escriva,  I Love Paella , Tim Hooper,  Milk Bar ; Laura Gonzalez,  Nomad Bakery ; Pete Hefferan & Lydia Owen,  Shed

Music & nightlife:  Sid Siddle, Club Velocity ; Pete Wheeler,  DJ and Promoter ; Tyler Hallows,  Explore Reading ; Dave Maul, Heavy Pop Music

Explore the best of Reading

Rising Sun Arts Centre

The rising sun arts centre.

On even the most average of weeks The Rising Sun Arts Centre plays host to art classes, yoga sessions, African drumming workshops, tango lessons, film nights, book clubs and tea dances. And that's before we even get to the lively weekend gigs held in the cosy, sweaty front room. The arts centre started life as a squat for a group of artists who saw potential in the beautiful Victorian red-bricked building on Silver Street. By the mid '90s it had gained charity status and it’s been run by a passionate and dedicated community of volunteers ever since. It enters the list as one of Reading’s most vibrant, welcoming and hands on arts centres.

The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST. View website

The panel says.

"It really is a one off. I spend far too much time there, have seen some of the best gigs ever and met friends for life. My second home." - Sid Siddle, Club Velocity. "The fine Victorian brickwork needs to be admired. It is spontaneous, handsome, remarkable and sometimes completely bonkers." - The Whitley Pump

Just Imagine Memorabilia

Just imagine memorabila.

Run by Jim B Donovan, the DJ behind some of the most popular nights at Milk, JIM (see what he did there?) is a joyful treasure trove of vinyl, music, comics and games. Shelves heave under the weight of second hand memorabilia in this cupboard-like Harris Arcade store. Look out for Thunderbirds action figures, board games, back issues of the Beano or DC comics and VHS copies of old Doctor Who episodes. Pride of place in the centre of room are the rows of CDs and crates upon crates of vinyl records organised by decade. Go crate digging to find everything from the Rolling Stones to rare soul, ska and hip hop.

14 Harris Arcade, Station Rd, Reading, RG1 1LG. Open Tuesday to Friday 12-4.30pm, Saturday 10.30am - 4.30pm. View website.

"Jim Donovan is a true legend of music in Reading whose passion and positive personality are infectious. A visit to his shop (or a trip to one of his regular DJ sets) is always a treat “- Pete Wheeler, DJ. "The best record shop, and a brilliant DJ’ - Tim Hooper, Milk

Prospect Park

Outdoor spaces.

Almost all of our panel name-checked one of Reading’s many beautiful green spaces and gardens, including Caversham Court Gardens, Balmore Walk and Palmer Park. But it was Tilehurst’s Prospect Park that picked up the most votes from dedicated West Reading residents. It’s Reading’s largest open space and is loved for its wide grassy spaces, oak woodland, sports facilities, children’s playground and even miniature steam train. At weekends it’s vibrant and bustling with five-a-side tournaments, running groups, dog walkers, families and car boot sellers alike. Amble to the top of the hill at the park’s centre for a sweeping view towards The Kennet and Green Park with its towering wind turbine, and to see the beautiful Regency-era Mansion House - once home to the Liebenrood family, it’s now home to a slightly less lovely, but family-friendly Harvester.

Liebenrood Rd, Reading, RG30 2ND.

“My favourite green space in Reading, it’s superb for a long walk and clearing the head on a misty wintery morning or a sunny summer afternoon.” - James Moore “Always a favourite to walk my dogs”. - Anne-Marie Whitehouse, The Grumpy Goat

Farmer's Market

Reading farmer's market.

Every two weeks, farmers from around Berkshire and south Oxfordshire set up stalls at the former auction house of the Great Knolly’s Street Cattle Market for Reading Farmer’s Market. It’s a charming, vibrant and bustling community of sellers that has been going since 1999 and is an enjoyable place to stock up on your weekly groceries, meet the families behind your food and find out where your produce comes from. Regular vendors include Q Gardens fruit farm, fresh fish from Brookleas, bread from The Old Farmhouse Bakery and pork goods from the very friendly Dew’s Meadow Farm. As well as produce, there are tables of kitchen treats including cheeses, chocolates, oils, preserves and more from vendors on rotation. You can also make a morning of it with a hearty English breakfast from farm-fresh goods cooked on a delicious-smelling grill next to the entrance. Perfect to power you through the shopping trip. Read more about food markets in Reading.

The Cattle Market, Great Knolly’s Street | The first and third Saturdays of the month | 8.30am – midday | View website .

“I attend this religiously and have seen stall holders come and go. I love being able to buy my produce from the producer and talk to them!” - John Luther, South Street Arts Centre “One of the few things that I’ll get up early for on a Saturday morning. There’s a real village feel to Reading Farmer’s Market. One of my favourite places to shop and much more enjoyable than a trip to the supermarket.” - Claire Slobodian, Explore Reading.

Black History Mural

Reading black history mural.

The iconic Black History Mural has stood tall and proud at the end of London Street since 1990. The 36-metre-long artwork was commissioned by the Central Club in 1987 to celebrate Reading’s strong African-Caribbean community, the role that black people have played throughout history and the work of the Central Club. Painted by Alan Howard, with support from apprentices from the youth provision, the mural includes depictions of Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King and Bob Marley as well as Reading residents and founding club members. Unfortunately, the future of the mural is currently somewhat uncertain, as the building is currently up for sale. But Reading Borough Council have announced any proposals must include plans to secure the mural's future. We hope the Black History Mural stays as a symbol of Reading’s diverse community for many years to come.

“An iconic painting representing and celebrating Reading's culture and diversity.” - Reading Caribbean Cultural Group

RISC Reading

Reading international solidarity centre - risc, shops, community, food & drink, culture, outdoor spaces.

RISC is possibly the only entry on this list to fit into every single category. The striking blue and orange building opened at the bottom of London Street in 1996 to promote sustainability, global issues and social justice. To the right, the World Shop sells ethical, fair trade products - you can find everything from charcoal toothpaste and crumbly organic fudge to wallets made from recycled tyres. The back corner is also home to one of Reading’s last few remaining independent bookshops with a focus on works from global authors. To the left, Global Café is a coffee shop, restaurant, event space and sometime art gallery. By day there’s cuppas and cake, by night there’s original international cuisine from Tutu’s Ethiopian Table and an exciting range of craft beers behind the bar. Every month they host rousing talks, thoughtful film screenings and lively gigs. If that wasn’t enough, right at the top there’s also a sustainable roof garden. RISC is an endearing, inspiring and welcoming space supporting Reading’s community and helping Reading’s community to support the wider world.

35-39 London St, RG1 4PS. View website .

"They are ethical and community-focused whilst still outward looking. A Reading institution. And a lifeline for Christmas presents (for someone who hates shopping!)." - John Luther "An edible forest garden on the flat roof above the conference hall. The garden has become an oasis in the centre of Reading. The Global Cafe offers the fantastic Tutu's Ethiopian buffet as well as a fine selection of international beer and live music in the evenings." - Whitley Pump

Bakery House

Food & drink.

Many of Reading’s restaurants got individual mentions from our expert panel but Bakery House was one of the few to keep popping up again and again (along with entry number 20 I Love Paella ). Sat halfway up London Street, this unpretentious independent café has been the place to go for Lebanese food in Reading long before Comptoir Libanais arrived at the riverside. Sure, it may look a bit like a nondescript kebab shop from the outside, but inside you’ll find a menu of exciting, affordable and delicious Lebanese dishes. It does terrific grilled meats and the light and crunchy falafel is the best in town. It’s also a great lunch spot, with shawarma platters featuring a generous portion of tender marinated chicken, vegetable rice, tabouleh, a big scoop of hummus and a home baked flatbread. In recent months the service and portion sizes has dipped a little, but it’s still home to the best Lebanese food in town. Bakery House is a real hidden gem. Unassuming from the outside, but passionately loved by Reading residents who’ve stepped through the door.

82 London Street, RG1 4SJ. View website

“We were so happy when we first went to Bakery House. It's just really tasty food. We like ordering lots of little bits and sharing it all. The chilli sauce is amazing.” - Pete Hefferan & Lydia Owen, Shed “A great Lebanese restaurant. Great food. Reasonable prices” - Sid Siddle, Club Velocity

Whiteknights Campus

University of reading whiteknights campus, outdoor spaces.

At first I was slightly surprised to see the University of Reading campus start cropping up in our panel's submitted lists. But of course, as a west Reading resident I'd forgotten that as well as an academic hub, Whiteknights is also home to 130 hectares of beautiful green space in east Reading. It's perfect for weekend walks, ambles and strolls among nature. In fact, it's even award-winning, having picked up a Green Flag Award as the sixth best green space in the country. It's loved by our panel for lots of different reasons. Some mentioned the lake and its fabulous bio diversity, some liked the peace and quiet outside of town and many mentioned the hidden botanical Harris Gardens. I also happen to love the campus-based Reading Film Theatre  for indie cinema and the two on-site museums , of zoology and Greek history. Whatever reason you go, do visit. Don't forget about it. It's one of the best things in Reading, of course.

University of Reading, Whiteknights Road, Reading. View Website.

"A lovely place for walks in Reading on the main University campus. Great place for peace and quiet not far from the town centre." - Pete Wheeler. "You don’t have to be a student to have a wander around Whiteknights Lake or Harris Gardens, so why not check it out?" - Andrew Ingle, Time Trap Escape Rooms " Harris Gardens on the University Whiteknights campus is a Reading secret. It’s a beautiful, quiet spot to walk and picnic." - John Luther, South Street Arts Centre

Oxford road

The oxford road.

The Oxford Road is the only street to make it onto this list and to some may seem like an odd entry. “Who cares that much about a road?”, you might think. But it isn't just a road, of course. The Oxford Road is home to Turkish supermarkets, Polish delis, African barbers, Caribbean takeaways, Japanese restaurants, multiple churches, the Reading Islamic Centre, family-owned hardware stores and the beautiful red brick Battle Library, as well as so many of our residents. It's a vibrant, bustling community running right through the heart of West Reading, reflecting our town’s diverse, dynamic population.

“It’s a great community with lots of lovely things to eat and shops to buy ingredients in for keen cooks.” - Sarah Hacker, Lead Councillor for Culture, Sport & Consumer Services “We choose the Oxford Road, for its vibrancy.” - Grumpy Goat “Love getting unimaginable ingredients on Oxford Road” - Laura, Nomad

In the past couple of years Reading has seen an exciting, independent coffee shop scene grow up in town. CUP, also called Coffee Under Pressure, is (spoiler alert) the first of these to make our list. CUP wasn’t just nominated for its coffee though. Launched in 2015 by Maria Fyssaki and Nasos Nasios, a Greek couple with a heap of barista experience and a passion for quality coffee, CUP blends its caffeine with a laidback vibe, friendly atmosphere and one of the biggest loose leaf tea selections in town. There’s also a sprinkling of charming Greek elements such as thick brewed Greek coffee and slices of delicious spanakopita, a spinach filo pie for lunch. Inside it’s a minimalist space but outside it overlooks the leafy St Mary’s Butts and nursing a coffee or a pot of tea there on a lazy sunny day is one of our favourite things to do. And lots of other Reading residents felt the same.

53 St. Marys Butts, RG1 2LG. View website .

“One of my favourite coffee shops in town. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and the atmosphere has a continental feel. It's almost like being on holiday.” - Dave Maul, Heavy Pop.

Milk Bar has been serving up cocktails, music and fun upstairs at the old Afroba site on Merchant’s Place since 2012. It’s Reading’s most innovative and creative cocktail bar with a seriously impressive stash of rum and one of the best drinks lists in town. The staff know what they’re doing behind the bar too; they recently won the national Chairman’s Reserve Mai Tai Cocktail Competition. Just like the bar, design is quirky and fun, with higgledy-piggledy chairs, a cocktail menu made up like a Ladybird book, local art on the bare brick walls and a former Jackson’s tailor’s table repurposed to house a DJ deck. It’s also home to great relaxed events, comedy sets and some of the most fun DJ nights in town. Milk is one of our rare indie businesses that is both a hidden gem and a much-loved favourite for those who have ventured up the stairs at the old forge.

8 Merchants Place, RG1 1DT. View website .

“For a nice rum or cocktail it has to be Milk.” - Enric, I Love Paella “Delicious rums, consistently good DJ line-ups, great staff.” Pete Wheeler, DJ “Independent bar in a listed building, great extensive, impressive rum collection and cocktails!” - Reading Caribbean Cultural Group

Are You Listening? Festival

Reading Festival may get all the glory and national headlines, but it’s our town's smaller, one-day Are You Listening Festival that our panel nominated again and again as one of the best things to do in Reading. Held every April, it champions local acts with a line up that is 70 per cent Reading bands. They’re joined by some of the UK’s hottest bands to play memorable sets at venues across the town centre. This year’s lineup features Bristol punks Idles and alt-surf rockers Her’s. Not only that but it’s all for a good cause as well. Organised in support of Reading Mencap, a local charity working with people with learning disabilities and their families, the festival has raised more than £40,000 over the last six years.  There's always a great community atmosphere on AYL? Saturday as music fans zig-zag across town chatting with others as they go. It's one of our favourite days in Reading.

Saturday 28 April, 2018. Tickets are £22.50. Buy them online .

“This is a great festival for Reading, bringing really good bands and artists here from around the UK, giving a platform for loads of local bands to play, and (best of all) raising loads of money for a great local charity, Reading Mencap.” - John Luther, South Street Arts Centre “This music festival is a highlight of our year every year. They bring in exciting bands who wouldn't normally come to Reading. Plus they have raised tens of thousands of pounds for Reading Mencap.” - Pete Hefferan & Lydia Owen, Shed “Each year just gets better and better” - Tim Hooper, Milk

Reading Abbey

It may just be ruins now, but in the 1100s Reading Abbey was one of the biggest monasteries in Europe. Commissioned by King Henry 1, the construction of the Abbey brought industry, visitors and growth to Reading. It was arguably the most important project in making Reading the large, prosperous town it is today. A walk around our Abbey quarter is full of history and a reminder that Reading is far from the bland, chain-filled town it often gets accused of being. The Abbey Quarter project has done great work to conserve the ruins since 2009 and they will finally reopen in summer 2018 with a series of events set to reintroduce us to the quarter. When they do, go and take a walk in the footsteps of Reading history.

Reading Abbey, Abbey St, RG1 3BA. View website

“It’s a real asset and monument of international importance. I’m really looking forward to it reopening next year. I had my wedding photos done in the ruins and can’t wait to show my children around.” - Sarah Hacker, Lead Councillor for Culture, Sport & Consumer Services “I fell in love with our Abbey ruins as a teenager, while watching Progress Theatre’s open air Shakespeare productions. I can’t wait for them to return to the impressive space when the ruins reopen.” - Claire Slobodian, Explore Reading

People of Reading

Excitingly, it’s you, the people of Reading who our panel nominated as the number eight best thing in Reading. We’re a large town, and as this list shows we have many great restaurants, bars, shops, outdoor spaces and cultural spots, but ultimately it’s you, our community, who help to make it a better place to live. Whether it was for the ease of making friends, the way you cheer and promote Reading’s independent businesses or the passionate support you bring to our town’s causes (and even sites like this one), our panel kept mentioning how great you are. Be proud of what you bring to our town and keep making Reading’s community so vibrant and friendly. If you’d like to help more people meet others in Reading, sign up to Reading Voluntary Action’s Champions to End Loneliness pledge.

“The community, for their overwhelming support of Launchpad and for making me feel at home” - Ian Caren, Launchpad “Without them we wouldn’t have the town we have today with its drive, ambition and cultural diversity. Even the critics help us shape a better town.” - Sarah Hacker, Lead Councillor for Culture, Sport & Consumer Services

The Grumpy Goat

Another of Reading’s much-loved independent businesses, The Grumpy Goat stock two of our very favourite things: ale and cheese. Stepping through the door into their petite Harris Arcade space is like entering a veritable beer lover's Narnia. Everywhere you turn, shelves are piled high with over 400 different varieties of beer. It’s the biggest, and best, range of craft beers and real ales in Reading and includes local breweries Siren Craft Brew, Wild Weather Ales and Binghams Brewery, alongside American, Belgian and even Icelandic bottles. Next to the counter the cheese fridge is filled with excellent chunks of British and European cheeses such as the award-winning Two Hoots Barkham Blue. Owners Anne-Marie Whitehouse and Charlie Beatty are passionate and enthusiastic about what they stock and make the shopping experience a delight. They’ve also started taking their passion for beer around town with events such as Beer Fridays and the Craft Theory beer and music festival. In return they’ve found a strong and dedicated following who are all happy to shout about The Grumpy Goat as one of the best things in Reading.

The Grumpy Goat 8-9 Harris Arcade, RG1 1DN. View website .

“Not only do they run a great independent, highly successful shop, but they are super-lovely too. Amazing choice of craft ale, beer and great local cheeses – what’s not to like?” John Luther, South Street Arts Centre “Amazing cheese and amazing beers and spirits.” - Tim Hooper, Milk Bar “A formidable selection of craft beers, ales, ciders and cheese with fantastic bubbly staff.” - Pete Wheeler, DJ and producer.

Forbury Gardens

Picture the town of Reading, and you’ll likely picture Forbury Gardens. Prowled over by the magnificent Maiwand Lion, our beautiful Victorian public park is perhaps the most visible and picturesque spot in town. These charming, manicured gardens originally formed part of the Reading Abbey quarter before becoming the public ’Pleasure Gardens’ in 1856, when they hosted markets and fairs. We’re delighted to see more of those, such as Reading Town Meal, Bastille Day and Feastival from Blue Collar Street Food, drawing the crowds back into our park over the past few years. Forbury Gardens is a lovely green space and a symbol of our town’s history and welcoming community. Grab lunch, escape the high street, sit back and admire the historic buildings and gleaming glass towers nestled around the park’s edges. It will remind you how much Reading has changed and grown.

Forbury Road, RG1 3BB.

“Undoubtedly the nicest spot in central Reading, we're lucky to have a traditional Victorian landscaped park right in the centre of town. The bandstand, the fountains, the lion sculpture, and all surrounded by a contrast of historic structures and modern glazed commercial buildings.” - Reading on Thames “A place that means so much to me personally and professionally - historically a home to markets and events, this summer it has provided the perfect backdrop to our food festivals, whilst remaining a haven in the middle of town out of season.” - Glen Dinning, Blue Collar Street Food

Shed is home to the best sandwiches in town. Tucked under other best of Reading entry Milk Bar on Merchant’s Place, it's a real Reading hidden gem. Despite being hidden, it has a passionate following of lunch evangelists, including most of our panel, who happily sing the praises of the Top Toastie, freshly-made soup or Saucy Friday dishes to all who will listen. But it’s not just the food that makes Shed number four on this list, and the most nominated cafe in town. Owners Pete Hefferan and Lydia Owen have build a friendly, relaxed cafe where they remember their customers and talk to you like friends. Having lunch at Shed is delicious, cosy, fun, and cheery. Almost like having lunch at your friend’s house. But a friend that makes you really good sandwiches.

“Wonderful food and wonderful people” - Ian Caren, CEO of Launchpad “The tuna melt at Shed is by far the best sandwich in town!” Ann-Marie Whitehouse, The Grumpy Goat “Shed's Meat Free Mondays are always great and scrumptious” - Laura Gonzalez, Nomad Bakery

Reading's Pubs

This is the first collective entry to make our list. Almost every single person on our panel nominated a different one of Reading's many great pubs, so this list celebrates them all together at number three. From our great town centre beer houses to cosy neighbourhood locals, each of our pubs were put forward for different reasons. Honourable mentions go to The Nag's Head, loved for its impressive ale selection, the Allied Arms for its fabulous beer garden, The Retreat for its cosy, friendly feel and traditional, warm boozer The Hop Leaf. We're lucky that Reading has a great and dedicated pub scene which is constantly evolving and seeking to improve itself. In almost every part of town you can find a welcoming pub with a fine ale selection, a friendly crowd and a cheery landlord. Pull up a stool and try them all.

Reading’s best pubs reviewed

The nag’s head | the retreat | the hop leaf | the fox & hounds.

“Love enjoying a nice pint of beer or pale ale at The Nag's Head. A visit is our prize after a hard day’s work.” - Enric Escriva, I Love Paella “The Hop Leaf is The Whitley Pump’s Pub of the year. Best kept beer and finest local red brick traditional pub in Reading. A lovely port in a storm, warm, friendly, no pretense and first class ale.” - The Whitley Pump

Christchurch Bridge along the Thames Reading

The river thames.

According to Reading Museum, the River Thames has been attracting human activity for more than half a million years. That definitely makes it the oldest entry on this list, and well deserving of its spot as the second best thing in Reading. Although it may seem a surprising entry, the Thames received an overwhelming number of nominations to this list - in fact there is only two votes between this and the top spot. Reading is known for being a well-connected town and that all started with the River Thames. Once Reading’s gateway to the world, the Thames provided transport, trade and commerce. It was a vital asset in helping to grow our town and our industry. Today, the river is loved for the walks, wildlife and tranquility it offers outside of the town. The River Thames is both a peaceful escape from busy life and a much loved icon of our town.

Find out more about The River Thames at the Reading Riverside Museum .

“Our world famous asset, yet perhaps we could make more of it. The new footbridge looks fantastic, particularly lit up at night, and we've got our Lido back.” - Reading on Thames “The Thames is like entering a new world far away from the craziness of the town centre.“ - Laura Gonzalez, Nomad Bakery “The Thames Towpath is a little bit of countryside in the town centre. The wildlife and beauty of the towpath is well worth hanging onto!” Zsuzsi Page, Reading Fringe Festival.

South Street Arts Centre

A couple of years ago it was entirely possible this entry might not even have made this list. In 2015 South Street Arts Centre almost shuttered after council budget cuts, but the people of Reading ( you’re the best ) rallied and a campaign to save South Street resulted in a grant from Arts Council England. The much loved arts venue used the funding to undergo vital repairs and reopened at the beginning of 2017. A vital cultural hub, South Street Arts Centre runs Reading’s most vibrant and diverse programme of contemporary arts shows, comedy, drama, music and dance. It offers the best selection of stand up comedy in Reading, with edgier comics such as Lucy Porter, Sofie Hagen and Alun Cochrane all set to pick up the microphone next year. And it’s almost certainly the the only place in town you will see a Muppet Christmas Carol singalong or a quirky two woman show about masculinity and identity. It’s run by a passionate and dedicated team who work hard to dispel the myth that Reading has no culture. We couldn’t think of a more deserving winner to be crowned the Best of Reading.

South Street Arts Centre, 21 South St, RG1 4QU. View website

“Offering the most consistently diverting and eclectic program of arts for miles around.” - Edible Reading “Since this venue has been 'saved' by the public, it feels like it's become the people's place. We both have lots of great memories here from watching gigs, playing gigs to just sitting on the wall outside talking rubbish. Special mention should go to Double Dot Bash - another excellent music festival.” - Pete Hefferan and Lydia Owen, Shed “A fantastic venue.” - Anne-Marie Whitehouse, The Grumpy Goat.

Hello! I'm Claire, the founding editor of Explore Reading. I'm a Reading native and former digital director of Time Out Shanghai. I founded Explore Reading so no one can say, ‘there’s nothing to do in Reading’, again. When not editing Explore Reading, I'm probably drinking a Manhattan.

Pho restaurant review

The best things to do in Reading in December

Think most entries are well deserved but I do think Bakery House being on the list is a little odd.

With the exception of the chain Comptoir Libanais opening just a few months back, it has been the ONLY Lebanese restaurant in town.

It just doesn’t make any sense to call them the best Lebanese in town.

The Rising Sun arts centre is also the only venue in Reading owned by a Swiss anarchist with an ear-splitting whistle and a large yellow hat. https://whitleypump.wordpress.com/2017/10/22/an-interview-with-felix-brunner-there-is-a-house-on-silver-street/

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Reading (Berkshire, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Reading (Berkshire, England)

One of the largest settlements in the UK without city status, Reading is a university town 20 minutes west of London.

And despite being in the capital’s orbit, Reading is an economic powerbase of its own, with companies in the insurance and IT sectors.

The town is on the Thames, at the very end of the Kennet and Avon Canal, and in the Middle Ages was the site of an influential abbey, the ruins of which can be seen around the central Forbury Gardens.

Oscar Wilde was imprisoned at Reading Gaol between 1895 and 1897 after being convicted of homosexual offences, and would later write the Ballad of Reading Gaol while in exile in France.

The prison, now HMP Reading, is still here and finally closed down in 2013.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Reading :

1. Reading Museum

In the neo-Gothic Town Hall, the Reading Museum explores the town’s past, from its earliest days as a Saxon Settlement, through its Medieval abbey, industrialisation and up to the 21st century.

There’s also a gallery for the nearby Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum (Silchester), which has artefacts like a lifelike bronze eagle cast in the 1st or 2nd century and discovered in 1866. There are also pieces excavated from Reading Abbey, and the country’s only copy of the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of Britain.

There’s art by Jacob Epstein and Auguste Rodin in the Windows Gallery, while the Huntley & Palmers Gallery charts the biscuit-making industry that buoyed Reading’s economy in Victorian times.

2. Forbury Gardens

A couple of streets east of the railway station, Forbury Gardens is a neat public park on the outer court of the former Reading Abbey, which we’ll talk about later.

After the abbey was dissolved in the 16th century the space was left open and used for gun emplacements in the English Civil War and then for military drills during the Napoleonic Wars.

It became a public park in the middle of the 19th century, and the attention-grabbing monument in the centre, the Maiwand Lion, was erected in 1886 to commemorate the dead from the 66th Berkshire Regiment at the Battle of Maiwand in Afghanistan in 1880. The park has a dainty bandstand and ample lawns that fill up with office workers at lunchtime on sunny days.

3. Abbey Ruins

On the southeast boundary of Forbury Gardens, mingling with more modern buildings are the ruins of Reading Abbey, which was founded by Henry I in 1121. Like all monasteries across Britain and Ireland, the abbey was suppressed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in 1538, and it’s last abbot Hugh Cook Faringdon was hanged, drawn and quartered.

Even though the complex has been disused for almost 500 years the ruins are Grade I listed, and you can enter the shell of the former chapter house.

The hospitium, a dormitory for pilgrims is intact, and has become a children’s nursery, while the Gothic abbey gateway on Abbey Square once housed a school attended by Jane Austen and was restored by George Gilbert Scott in 1861.

4. Basildon Park

A short trip into the Chiltern Hills, just northwest of Reading, Basildon Park is a resplendent Palladian country house designed by John Carr and built between 1776 and 1783. After being used as a prisoner of war camp in the Second World War, the house, constructed from honey-coloured Bath stone, was completely dilapidated in the 1950s and scheduled for demolition before a thorough restoration by Lord and Lady Iliffe.

Cared for by the National Trust today, the property looks better than ever.

You can go in to appreciate the restoration work, and learn how the Iliffes searched for appropriate fittings across the country.

The Staircase Hall, Octagon Drawing Room, Dining Room are all lovely, and you can have a cup of tea by the fire in the kitchen.

Outside, Lady Iliffe’s Rose Garden is a joy in spring and summer.

5. Silchester

You can see Silchester for yourself at a free English Heritage site ten miles southwest of Reading.

The Roman city was built in the late 1st century over an earlier Iron Age oppidum, and was abandoned between the 5th and 7th centuries.

The city walls form a polygon and were first excavated at the turn of the 20th century.

They are claimed to be the most intact Roman defences in the UK and are visible for most of the city’s circumference, but most impressively on the north side.

The spring that flows from inside the walls once fed the Roman baths and now trickles into Silchester Brook.

Just beyond the eastern walls you can step into the remains of Silchester’s amphitheatre, ringed by earthworks long since taken over by trees and undergrowth.

6. Caversham Court

In a conservation area on the north bank of the Thames, Caversham Court is a garden on the grounds of a former mansion.

Some of Reading’s most powerful families lived here in the centuries after the Dissolution of the Monasteries, and you can see pieces of its plasterwork and the 17th-century staircase at the Museum of Reading.

Today, there’s no more than a footprint of the house at Caversham Court, but the gardens are the real reason to come.

These flow down to the river and have beautiful mature trees like an Atlas cedar, a Bhutan pine, a cedar of Lebanon and a black mulberry.

If you’re in town in July you could watch a play during the Reading Open Air Shakespeare Festival, while Cult Screens organises film screenings, which you can watch from the comfort of a bean bag or deck chair.

7. Museum of English Rural Life

Operated by the University of Reading, this museum can be found at the back of the London Road campus near the town centre.

The attraction was founded in 1951, through the university’s historic ties to agriculture, and has had a long refurbishment, opening its doors once more in 2016. The galleries map more than 250 years of the English countryside and are stocked with manual tools, clothes, ploughs, antique portraits of livestock, carts and tractors, both steam and diesel-powered.

There’s multimedia to keep youngsters engaged and they can also dress up in period costume.

If some of the old-time contraptions seem confusing the museum’s staff are on hand for any questions.

8. Mapledurham House

A few short miles up the Thames is an exquisite Elizabethan stately home, constructed in 1585 and offering tours on weekdays.

When this post was written the house wasn’t part of the visit as it was being refurbished, but if you are able to go inside you’ll be shown authentic 16th-century priest holes, built to hide Catholic clergy at a time when the denomination was persecuted in England.

You will be able to see the Mapledurham Mill, first constructed in the 1400s and altered in the subsequent centuries.

It produced flour until the end of the Second World War and is in full working order.

Also in the building is a hydroelectric turbine using an Archimedes screw and selling its energy to the National Grid.

In the grounds is the 13th-century St Margaret’s Church, and a tea room in the stables coach house serving freshly baked scones.

9. Kennet and Avon Canal Walk

Reading is at the conclusion of the Kennet and Avon Canal, coursing along the West Country for 87 miles from Bristol.

This long waterway was constructed between 1718 and 1810 and was mostly used to ship coal and building stone from Somerset to London.

The canal towpath, traced by chestnut trees is another way to get to know Reading.

The waterway is busy in summer and has swans and geese, while the towpath takes you past the former prison, where there’s a gate with a quote from Wilde’s “Ballad of Reading Gaol”. At the confluence with the Thames, you’ll join the Thames Path national trail.

If you keep going east you’ll reach the cute village of Sonning, home to Reading Sailing club, tea rooms and pubs.

10. Museum of Berkshire Aviation

The Reading suburb of Woodley has a small but diverting aircraft museum, open Wednesdays and weekends.

The attraction is in a hangar at what used to be the Woodley Aerodrome, which operated in the first half of the 20th century.

The collection has machines built by the firm, Miles Aircraft (previously Phillips & Powis), which was based at the aerodrome at that time.

Some of the exhibits are unique in the world, like a Miles Student jet trainer, an experimental Fairey Jet Gyrodyne and a Miles Martinet, a Second World War target tug.

Also on show are a Miles Magister training plane, a Fairey Gannet anti-submarine bomber and a Handley Page airliner.

11. Wellington Country Park

In the Hampshire countryside, seven miles south of Reading, there’s a big outdoor recreation area opened in 1974 by the 8th Duke and Duchess of Wellington.

The park has 350 acres of hardwood and softwood forest, woven with four nature trails and a habitat for fallow and red deer.

The park also has a 35-acre lake with a cafe on its shore, and when the summer comes there’s loads for children to get up to.

Domestic animals await at the animal farm and petting barn, there are adventure playgrounds, a miniature train, sandpits, a maze, “enchanted forest” and 12 holes of mini-golf.

12. Beale Wildlife Park and Gardens

On the Thames side of Basildon Park is a kind of zoo that opened in 1956, and blends animal exhibits, amusements for younger children and landscaped gardens.

In the walk-through aviary are snowy owls, barn owls, blue and gold macaws, spectacled owls, caracaras and many more.

You can also check out enclosures and paddocks with rheas, alpacas, meerkats, lemurs, prairie dogs, Cameroon sheep and red-necked wallabies.

Added to that are a miniature train, indoor play area, and a delightful water garden and dry garden, scattered with interesting sculptures and planted with exotic trees like a gingko and swamp cypress.

13. Cole Museum of Zoology

Another university museum, this attraction is attached to Reading’s School of Biological Sciences at the Whiteknights Campus.

The collection was put together at the beginning of the 20th century by the namesake Professor of Zoology Francis J. Cole.

Of its 3,500 zoological specimens, some 400 are on show at any one time, all arranged in taxonomic order, so you can get a complete summary of the Animal Kingdom in under an hour.

Some of the outstanding pieces kept on display at all times are two giant spider crabs, and skeletons of a false killer whale, Indian elephant and a reticulated python five metres in length.

14. The Oracle

If you find yourself at a loose end or fancy a shopping expedition, the obvious choice in Reading is the Oracle, a mall that opened next to the Kennet in 1999. There are more than 100 shops at the centre, counting all the usual high street brands like Zara, Topshop and H&M, all anchored by large branches of the department stores House of Fraser and Debenhams.

The Oracle is also a dining destination, with popular chains like Wagamama, Five Guys, Starbucks, Pret a Manger, Cafe Rouge and Nando’s.

And if you have a couple of hours at your disposal there’s a 10-screen Vue cinema for the latest Hollywood releases.

15. Reading Festival

Officially world’s oldest pop music festival, the Reading Festival takes place at Little John’s Farm on the bank holiday at the end of August.

The event grew out of the National Jazz Festival in the 1950s and in the early-1970s evolved into a purely rock extravaganza.

That rule has been loosened in recent years and in 2018 one of the headliners was rapper Kendrick Lamar.

In the past, some non-rock acts have even had to flee the stage after being pelted with plastic bottles.

Over the last 50 years, Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones, The Who, Cream and the Kinks have all played the event, and since 1999 the event has been held simultaneously in Reading and Leeds in West Yorkshire.

To avoid missing out, the lineup is normally announced in February and tickets tend to sell out around June or July.

15 Best Things to Do in Reading (Berkshire, England):

• Reading Museum
• Forbury Gardens
• Abbey Ruins
• Basildon Park
• Caversham Court
• Museum of English Rural Life
• Mapledurham House
• Kennet and Avon Canal Walk
• Museum of Berkshire Aviation
• Wellington Country Park
• Beale Wildlife Park and Gardens
• Cole Museum of Zoology
• Reading Festival

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18 Ultimate Things To Do In Reading, Berkshire

• Writen by: Ricky
• May 13, 2023
• England , United Kingdom

Table of Contents

Welcome to Reading, a captivating riverside and university town nestled in the heart of the Royal County of Berkshire, UK. With a history dating back to the 8th century , Reading boasts a colourful past that will tickle the fancy of history buffs and casual visitors alike.

Just a 20-minute from London, you’ll find tales of Viking invasions, crumbling Roman ruins, and the grandiose Reading Abbey – a medieval monastery that once hosted the likes of King Henry VIII and served as a regal rest stop for travelling monarchs.

While it may not be the first destination that pops into your mind when planning a British escapade, Reading is anything but a dusty old relic. Today, this vibrant town is a bustling hub of culture, restaurants shopping , and entertainment, earning its stripes as a hidden treasure among the UK’s pantheon of must-visit locales.

From its humble beginnings as a Saxon settlement to its rapid expansion during the Industrial Revolution, Reading has transformed into a modern town that seamlessly melds history and progress.

No intro to Reading would be complete without a mention of its annual music festival. This celebrated outdoor festival has been graced by some of the biggest names in the industry and embraces the arts with open arms (and a cheeky pint or two).

Whether you’re after a spot of shopping at the Oracle, a leisurely stroll through picturesque Harris Garden, or a fascinating journey through Reading’s storied museums and hotels , there’s a little something for everyone in this delightful gem.

Ready to explore the very best things to do in Reading? Let’s get to it…

Top 18 Things To Do In Reading

1. explore the reading abbey ruins.

Best for: History enthusiasts, families, and photographers

What it is: Reading Abbey Ruins are the impressive remains of a once grand medieval monastery, steeped in history and architectural splendour. They stand as a testament to the town’s rich heritage and has witnessed the rise and fall of monarchs and even served as King Henry VIII’s playground.

Why go: Delve into the intriguing past of this religious site and learn about the Abbey’s role in shaping Reading’s history. Explore the picturesque grounds, the chapter house and treasury and indulge in the architectural beauty of the ruins.

Opening times: 24/7, all year round

Website URL: https://www.readingabbeyquarter.org.uk/

Entrance cost: Free

Highlights:

Admire the surviving archways and walls

Uncover stories of famous historical figures

Take in the tranquil atmosphere

2. Unleash Your Inner Detective at Escape Reading

Best for: Friends, families, and team-building activities

What it is: Escape Reading is an escape room center offering a variety of themed rooms that require teamwork, logic, and problem-solving to complete. With diverse challenges, it’s one of the most fun things to do in Reading for adults and families alike.

Why go: Test your wit and collaborative skills as you solve a series of puzzles and challenges within a set time limit. With a range of captivating themes, there’s an adventure suited for everyone’s taste. It’s a fun and engaging way to spend time with friends or family and a fun activity to do in Reading as a couple.

Opening times: Mon-Fri: 12pm-10:30pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-10:30pm

Website URL: https://www.escapereading.co.uk/

Entrance cost: Prices start at £20 per person

Challenging puzzles and riddles

Immersive themed rooms

Bonding experience with friends or family

3. Rewind Time at the Museum of English Rural Life

Best for: History buffs, families, and curious minds

What it is: The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) is a unique museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of England’s countryside. It houses a vast collection of artefacts, archives, and photographs.

Why go: Immerse yourself in the stories and experiences of rural England, from farming practices to crafts and trades. Engage in interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities, learning about the past in a fun and informative way. For those seeking an educational yet entertaining experience, MERL is one of the top places to visit in Reading for adults and families alike.

Opening times: Tue-Fri: 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm

Website URL: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/

Explore fascinating rural history

Engage in interactive exhibits

Family-friendly activities and events

4. Wander Through Caversham Court Gardens

Best for: Nature lovers, couples, and photographers

What it is: Caversham Court Gardens is a beautifully restored public garden nestled on the banks of the River Thames. It’s a peaceful retreat featuring stunning flowerbeds, mature trees, and scenic river views, ideal for those looking for romantic things to do in Reading for couples.

Why go: Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens, admire the picturesque landscape, and find serenity in the peaceful surroundings. With its enchanting beauty and riverside charm, Caversham Court Gardens offers a perfect spot for picnics, photography, or simply unwinding with your loved ones.

Opening times: Daily from dawn to dusk

Website URL: https://www.reading.gov.uk/cavershamcourt

Stroll through beautiful gardens

Enjoy scenic river views

Perfect spot for picnics and relaxation

5. Relax in The Harris Garden

Best for: Families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquillity

What it is: The Harris Garden is a hidden gem located within the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus. Its lush grounds feature a labyrinth garden, diverse plant species, and vibrant flower displays, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.

Why go: Meander through the winding paths, discover various themed gardens, and let the kids explore the enchanting labyrinth. This peaceful retreat offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the town centre while providing a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Website URL: https://www.reading.ac.uk/campus/harris-garden.aspx

Explore the intriguing labyrinth garden

Discover themed gardens and diverse plant life

Enjoy a peaceful escape within the town

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6. Go Shopping at The Oracle Shopping Centre

Best for: Shopaholics, foodies, and entertainment seekers

What it is: The Oracle Shopping Centre is a modern, riverside shopping and leisure complex in the town centre, boasting a wide range of popular retail stores, eateries, and entertainment options.

Why go: Indulge in a shopping spree, enjoy riverside dining at one of the many restaurants and bars, or catch the latest movie at the Vue cinema. The Oracle offers a little something for everyone, making it a perfect spot to shop, dine, and unwind in the heart of Reading.

Opening times: Mon-Sat: 9am-8pm; Sun: 11am-5pm (Restaurant and cinema hours may vary)

Website URL: https://www.theoracle.com/

Entrance cost: Free (excluding purchases and cinema tickets)

Discover popular retail stores and brands

Satisfy your taste buds at diverse eateries

Enjoy entertainment options, including a cinema

7. Attend a Reading Festival for the Music Savvy

Best for: Music enthusiasts, festival-goers, and fun-seekers

What it is: Reading Festival is an annual music festival held at Little John’s Farm, featuring a lineup of top international artists and bands from various genres.

Why go: Experience an unforgettable weekend filled with live music, energetic crowds, and a fantastic festival atmosphere. With a diverse lineup catering to different tastes, Reading Festival offers a unique opportunity to see your favourite artists and discover new ones in an exhilarating setting.

Opening times: Annually, typically held in August

Website URL: https://www.readingfestival.com/

Entrance cost: Prices vary depending on ticket type

See international artists and bands perform live

Enjoy a weekend of music and festivities

Discover new music across genres

8. Kayak on the River Thames

Best for: Adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and couples

What it is: Kayaking on the River Thames offers a unique way to explore Reading’s picturesque surroundings and tranquil waterways. Paddle your way along the river, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Why go: Enjoy a fun and active day out on the water, soaking up the natural beauty of the waterways and the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a complete beginner, it’s one of the most enjoyable activities to do in Reading for couples and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Opening times: Varies depending on rental providers

Website URL: http://www.reading-canoe.org.uk/ (one of the rental providers)

Entrance cost: Prices vary depending on rental providers and duration

Explore the picturesque River Thames

Experience a fun and active day on the water

Suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers

9. Unwind at Beale Park

Best for: Families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts

What it is: Beale Park is a wildlife park and landscaped gardens nestled along the banks of the Thames. Home to a diverse range of animals, birds, and beautiful gardens, it’s a popular destination for families and nature lovers.

Why go: Get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including meerkats, monkeys, prairie dogs and wallabies, while strolling through the beautiful parkland and animal exhibits. With play areas and activities for children, it’s a fun day out in Reading with kids and the whole family.

Opening times: Daily 10am-5pm (last entry at 4pm)

Website URL: https://www.bealepark.org.uk/

Entrance cost: Adult £12, Child (2-15) £10, Senior (60+) £11, Family (2 adults, 2 children) £40

Encounter a variety of animals and birds

Explore the beautiful gardens and parkland

Enjoy family-friendly activities and play areas

10. Visit The Reading Museum

Best for: History enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers

What it is: The Reading Museum is a treasure trove of local history, art, and culture, featuring a diverse range of exhibits and collections, such as the Bayeux Tapestry, that span from ancient to modern times.

Why go: Discover Reading’s fascinating past, explore its rich cultural heritage, and engage with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. From archaeological finds to contemporary art galleries, the museum offers a captivating journey through time, providing a deeper understanding of the town and its people.

Opening times: Tue-Fri: 10am-4pm; Sat: 10am-5pm

Website URL: https://www.readingmuseum.org.uk/

Delve into Reading’s diverse history and culture

Engage with interactive exhibits and displays

Admire the museum’s extensive art collection

11. Taste Test Craft Ales at Siren Craft Brew

Best for: Beer enthusiasts, couples, and groups of friends

What it is: Siren Craft Brew is an award-winning craft brewery located just outside Reading, known for its innovative and flavorful beers.

Why go: Tour the brewery, learn about the beer-making process, and sample a variety of unique and delicious craft beers. With a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it’s a fantastic experience for beer lovers and those looking to try something new.

Opening times: Taproom – Fri: 12pm-8pm; Sat: 11am-8pm; Sun: 12pm-6pm

Website URL: https://www.sirencraftbrew.com/

Entrance cost: Brewery tours – £15 per person

Sample a variety of innovative craft beers

Learn about the brewing process

Enjoy the taproom’s welcoming atmosphere

12. Picnic at Forbury Gardens

Best for: Families, couples, and nature lovers

What it is: Forbury Gardens is a beautifully maintained Victorian park in the heart of Reading, featuring manicured lawns, flower beds, and historical monuments. It’s a perfect destination for a leisurely day outdoors.

Why go: Grab a picnic blanket, pack your favourite snacks, and relax on the lush lawns surrounded by vibrant flowers and trees. The park’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for families and couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

Website URL: https://www.reading.gov.uk/forburygardens

Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the park

Admire the historic Maiwand Lion statue

Relax in the beautifully maintained gardens

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13. Bike the Thames Path National Trail

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, and nature lovers

What it is: The Thames Path National Trail is a 184-mile-long scenic route that follows the River Thames from its source to the Thames Barrier. Biking the trail near Reading offers a fantastic way to explore the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the natural beauty of the river.

Why go: Cycle along the well-maintained paths, taking in the beautiful riverside scenery, wildlife, and historic landmarks. It’s an excellent opportunity for those seeking outdoor activities in Reading, offering a fun and memorable way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Opening times: Accessible all year round

Website URL: https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/thames-path/

Explore the scenic Thames Path by bike

Enjoy picturesque riverside views and wildlife

Discover historic landmarks along the route

14. Trek the Roman Ruins at Silchester

Best for: History buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and families

What it is: The Roman ruins at Silchester, also known as Calleva Atrebatum, offer a fascinating glimpse into the town’s ancient past. The archaeological site features the remains of a Roman town, including an amphitheatre, city walls, and more.

Why go: Wander through the well-preserved ruins, learn about Roman history and architecture, and immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside setting. A visit to Silchester is a perfect combination of historical exploration and outdoor adventure and belongs on every history enthusiast Reading travel itinerary.

Website URL: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/silchester-roman-city-walls-and-amphitheatre/

Explore the fascinating Roman ruins

Learn about ancient history and architecture

Enjoy the picturesque countryside setting

15. Unwind at the Basildon Park Estate

Best for: Nature lovers, families, and history enthusiasts

What it is: Basildon Park is an 18th-century Georgian mansion surrounded by 400 acres of picturesque parkland, boasting stunning views, walking trails, and opulent interiors. This historic estate offers a perfect day out for families and couples.

Why go: Explore the magnificent house, wander through its beautiful gardens, and discover the estate’s rich history. The park offers a tranquil escape from Reading town centre, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and experience the grandeur of a bygone era. With kid-friendly activities and free access to the parkland, it’s one of the best cheap things to do in Reading Berkshire for the whole family.

Opening times: 10am-5pm daily (House and car park/land hours may vary)

Website URL: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/basildon-park

Entrance cost: Adult £12, Child £6, Family £30 (Standard); National Trust members free

Stroll through the manicured gardens

Marvel at the lavish interior design

Immerse yourself in Georgian history

Explore the UK’s best road trips in 2023 and take the adventure on the road…

• 7 Best Scotland Road Trips
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16. Enjoy a Boat Trip on the Kennet and Avon Canal

Best for: Families, couples, nature lovers, and history buffs

What it is: The Kennet and Avon Canal stretches from Reading to Bristol, passing through picturesque countryside, quaint villages, and historic landmarks. A boat trip along the canal offers a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the stunning waterway and its surroundings.

Why go: Experience the beauty of the English countryside from the comfort of a canal boat, learn about the history of the waterway, and watch the world go by at a leisurely pace. A boat trip on the Kennet and Avon Canal is perfect for those seeking a unique and memorable outing, making it one of the top activities to do in Reading for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Opening times: Varies depending on the boat rental or tour company

Website URL: https://www.kennetandavoncanal.co.uk/ (information about the canal)

• Explore the picturesque Kennet and Avon Canal
• Discover quaint villages and historic landmarks along the way
• Experience the tranquility of the English countryside from a canal boat

17. Enjoy a Fun-Packed Day at Caversham Lakes

Best for: Families, adventure seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers

What it is: Caversham Lakes is a beautiful outdoor activity center and sailing club set around a stunning lake, offering a variety of water sports and outdoor activities such as wakeboarding, paddleboarding, open water swimming, and more.

Why go: Experience an adrenaline rush with exhilarating water sports, learn new skills from experienced instructors, or simply relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun. With activities suitable for all ages and abilities, Caversham Lakes is a fantastic destination for families and adventure seekers.

Opening times: Tue-Sun: 10am-6pm (closed on Mondays)

Website URL: https://www.cavershamlakes.co.uk/

Entrance cost: Prices vary depending on the activity; check the website for specific pricing

Try a variety of water sports such as wakeboarding and paddleboarding

Relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the beautiful lake views from the onsite cafe

Participate in open water swimming or attend a fitness class

18. Explore View Island

Best for: Nature lovers, families, couples, and artists

What it is: Just to the west of Caversham Lakes is View Island – a tranquil riverside park and nature reserve located in the heart of Reading. It offers beautiful views of the River Thames and Caversham Bridge and features wooded areas, open spaces, and sculptures created by local artists.

Why go: Escape the hustle and bustle of the town centre by exploring this hidden gem, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside, and discover the unique sculptures scattered throughout the park. View Island offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, families, and couples looking for a serene spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the river.

Opening times: Accessible all year round from dawn to dusk

Website URL: https://www.reading.gov.uk/viewisland

Wander through the tranquil riverside park and Thames Valley

Admire the unique sculptures by local artists

Enjoy beautiful views of the River Thames and Caversham Bridge

Best Things To Do In Reading

Explore The Reading Abbey Ruins

Unleash Your Inner Detective at Escape Reading

Rewind Time at the Museum of English Rural Life

Wander Through Caversham Court Gardens

Relax in The Harris Garden

Treat Yourself at The Oracle Shopping Centre

Attend a Reading Festival for the Music Savvy

Kayak on the River Thames

Unwind at Beale Park

Visit The Reading Museum

Taste Test Craft Ales at Siren Craft Brew

Picnic at Forbury Gardens

Bike the Thames Path National Trail

Trek the Roman Ruins at Silchester

Unwind at the Basildon Park Estate

Enjoy a Boat Trip on the Kennet and Avon Canal

Enjoy a Fun-Packed Day at Caversham Lakes

Explore View Island

Is Reading worth visiting?

Yes, Reading is definitely worth visiting. It offers a mix of history, culture, outdoor activities, and shopping opportunities. With attractions like the Reading Museum, the Abbey Ruins, and the Kennet and Avon Canal, as well as its close proximity to London, Reading makes for an enjoyable destination for all types of travellers.

What is Reading famous for?

Reading is famous for its rich history, including the Reading Abbey Ruins, the Museum of English Rural Life, and the Roman ruins at Silchester. It is also known for the annual Reading Festival, one of the UK’s largest and most popular music events, and its shopping centre, The Oracle.

Is Reading UK a walkable city?

Yes, Reading is a walkable city with a compact town centre, making it easy to explore many of its attractions on foot. In addition to walking, there are also excellent public transportation options, including buses and trains, to help you navigate the town and surrounding areas.

How long should I spend in Reading?

The amount of time you should spend in Reading depends on your interests and the attractions you wish to visit. Generally, a weekend or 2-3 days should be sufficient to explore the main sights and enjoy some of the activities on offer. However, if you plan to visit the surrounding areas or attend events like the Reading Festival, you may want to extend your stay.

Is Reading a cheap city?

Compared to London and some other major UK cities, Reading can be considered a more affordable destination. While the cost of living and visiting may still be relatively high compared to other smaller towns, there are plenty of free or low-cost attractions, like the Reading Museum, Forbury Gardens, and the Roman ruins at Silchester, that can help you stay within budget.

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Things to Do in Reading for a Fantastic Day Out

I have passed by Reading many times when heading for the Chiltern Valley or the beautiful villages dotted alongside the Thames. I didn’t know anything about Reading until I visited last week, when I discovered that as well as there being so many interesting things to do in Reading, there is great food and plenty of history.

I was surprised to learn that despite its size and population, Reading is a town, not a city. I found out   during my trip to Reading that in order to become a city, a town must obtain a Royal Charter, which is only granted if it has a Cathedral. Reading does   not have a Cathedral, but it did have an impressive Abbey, which is why it never gained city status. However, this does make Reading the largest town in England. Walking along the streets of Reading I noticed the mix of medieval walls and churches, and the glass buildings of modern architecture. It was like walking in the City of London, spotting hidden gems among skyscrapers. Not that there are skyscrapers in Reading, but it had the same feeling.  

How to get to Reading from London

If you are planning a day trip from London , you can easily reach Reading in just 25 minutes by train from Paddington Station. From the middle of next year you will also be able to get to Reading by London’s new Crossrail project, the Elizabeth Line, which will cross the capital from East to West.

The train station is located extremely central and you virtually get off the train and step into the old town.

Reading and the Three B’s

Reading is known as the town of the three B’s because in the 19 th century, the largest industries here were producing beer, bricks and biscuits.

Reading is known for its beautiful red brick architecture which was predominant in the 19 th century. Today you can admire it in the old town. The “Reading bricks” were made by S & E Collier, the largest brickmaker in town. They operated from 1870 until 1966 and besides bricks, they also produced pottery in the form of Roman and Greek medieval pots. It was marketed as “Silchester Ware”, after the nearby Roman village abandoned sometime during the 14 th century. 

When it comes to the second B, beer, Reading was famous due to the Simonds Brewery, which was opened in 1785 and operated until 2010. By 1805 the brewery already owned 10 pubs. As the years passed, more pubs were opened. The brewery expanded and remained a family business until 1960, when it was bought by Courage.

The biggest B comes from biscuits, which had a long and prosperous history in Reading. The company started as a small bakery on London Street and became Huntley & Palmers when Joseph Huntley and George Palmer started a partnership in 1841. By 1911 the company had over 88,000 employees and was famous all over the country. Huntley & Palmers was the creator of many of the biscuit flavours that we know today, such as the ginger snaps or the Nice biscuits. They exported the biscuits all over the world, using beautiful tins as their marketing tool. In fact, you will probably find an old tin of Huntley & Palmers biscuits in every country around the globe.

Huntley & Palmers closed the Reading factory in 1976 and the brand was sold to Danone in 1989.

Visit the Abbey Quarter

This year the town celebrated the 900 year anniversary of the foundation of Reading Abbey by Henry I between the Kennet and Thames rivers. He didn’t get a chance to see it , as he died one year before it was finished. 

After its inauguration in 1164, the Abbey became one of the largest royal monasteries in Europe and the fourth-longest church in England. Its glory didn’t last for a long time though, as after 400 years Henry VIII reformed the English church and dissolved the churches and monasteries. The act of dissolution of the monasteries resulted in their wealth and property being seized.

Photo credit: Reading Museum

The last abbot, Hugh Faringdon was executed for treason, for refusing to surrender the Abbey to the king. After his death, the Abbey was taken and gradually dismantled. Today you can see some remains all over Reading.

Except for some walls, not much is left of the old Abbey. The size of the walls gives an idea of how big the Abbey used to be.

The Abbey Gateway

Once the private quarters from the public areas of the Abbey were divided, the Gateway had several purposes over the years after the dissolution of the monasteries. First, Queen Elizabeth I transformed it into her own royal palace. After her death, the building was left in disrepair until the 18 th century, when it was repurposed as a school for girls. One of the famous pupils who studied here was Jane Austin.

If you look around the Abbey Gateway you can see the history of the building, remembered in sculptures. The latest sculpture added and inaugurated a few years ago represents Hugh Faringdon, the last abbot of Reading Abbey.

King Henry I

A few years ago, the remains of Richard III were found under a car park in Leicester, leaving Henry I the last significant king of England whose burial site is still unknown. It is known that his body was brought from France, where he died, to England, and he was buried in the Abbey in front of the altar. But, as the Abbey is almost completely destroyed, where exactly his tomb is remains a mystery.

St James Pilgrim Route 

In the Middle Ages Reading used to be an important site on the pilgrimage route to Santiago, because the Abbey had the relic of the hand of St James. Pilgrims used to come to Reading and stay at the Hospitium of St John, which is now a nursery, but which you can still recognise from the outside. They would then continue their way towards Southampton and take a ship to Galicia in the north of Spain, where they would walk further until they reached Santiago de Compostella. Soon the town of Reading will be launching a collaboration with Galicia, giving the opportunity for pilgrims to follow the St James Route again.

The Christmas Trail

During December, the Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens get festive with the Twilight Trail. This lightning installation celebrates the town’s biscuit heritage, and it is aimed to both residents and visitors. The trail is family friendly and accessible, and it has been created by light art pioneers, Luminism.

Check Out the Greyfriars Church

Photo credit: Reading Tourism Board

The Greyfriars Church is one of the four friary churches still standing in England and Wales. It is also the oldest Franciscan church still in use in the UK, listed as a Grade I listed building because of its extremely well preserved Franciscan architecture. 

See the Only Copy of the Bayeux Tapestry

One of the best places to visit in Reading to learn more about the town’s history is the local museum, in the old Town Hall. Spread out on three different floors, the museum tells the story of the town, and it has some wonderful collections that you could spend an entire day browsing. One of them is the biscuits display, with hundreds of carefully crafted tins that were produced and exported over the years. There’s an entire hall of them.

One of the most precious pieces at Reading Museum is the only copy of the Bayeux Tapestry, a 70 meter long embroidered cloth depicting the Norman conquest of England. To be honest, I wouldn’t call this a copy but a reproduction, as it has been embroidered by hand, just like the original one. It took 35 women over a year to complete the Reading copy of the Bayeux Tapestry, using special wood dyes to match the original colours. One fun fact about this replica is that the Victorian women who embroidered it covered up a naked gentlemen’s modesty with underpants.  Overall though, there are very few differences between the original and the replica displayed at the Reading Museum. So, if you don’t have plans to visit Bayeux anytime soon, come to Reading!

The museum also has paintings that show how impressive the Abbey used to be in its glory days, before Henry VIII disbanded monasteries. I highly recommend visiting the museum, because it is very hard to imagine how big the Abbey used to be when you are walking between its ruins.

Spot Oscar Wilde’s Cell at the Former Reading Gaol

In 1895 Oscar Wilde was convicted of “gross indecency” with other men and imprisoned at Reading Gaol for two years with hard labour. Conditions at the Reading Prison in the 19 th century were extremely tough, with poor sanitation and poor food, claustrophobic cells, and solitary confinement. Oscar Wild describes it best in his “De Profundis” letter written in the last four months of his sentence, to his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas.

After he was released and exiled to France, Oscar Wilde wrote one of his best poems, “ The Ballad of Reading Gaol ”, in 1897. Mentally exhausted and bankrupt after the two years spent in Reading, he died soon after in 1900, at 46 years old.

Find the Banksy Mural

Early this year, Reading was the latest town chosen by Banksy to display his art. The new mural appeared on the walls of the former Reading prison, and depicts an inmate escaping from his cell on a rope made from sheets, tied to a typewriter.

The locals believe that the man represents Oscar Wilde, and that the mural is an act of support of transforming the old prison into an arts centre.

Unfortunately, the mural has been vandalized, so it has been covered with a glass frame to protect it. You can still see it, but you can’t get too close.

Take a Leisure Boat Trip on the Thames

You don’t have to go to Goring or Henley on Thames to enjoy the beautiful views of the River Thames. Reading has a pretty riverfront, shared with the Thames Path. The best way to explore the views is by taking a relaxed cruise up the river, to Mapledurham Lock.

This is one of the most popular trips from Thames Rivercruise. It is a relaxed one and a half hours sail, with a fantastic commentary from the captain. He pointed out and told stories of different houses along the river front, including the one with the thatched roof that is destroyed every year by a Canadian goose who chooses to nest on it, even though it’s too heavy. The Captain also has a fantastic knowledge of the local birds, pointing out the different ones as we sailed by. During the cruise I found out that if you harm a swan that belongs to the Queen (which is about 80% of them), under the current legislation, you will be hanged in the Tower of London.

The boat I sailed on, the Caversham Princess, was big and spacious, with panoramic windows on each side, along with a bar and facilities.  It had heaters too, which was perfect as the weather wasn’t too warm.

Some of the other cruises include lunch and even afternoon tea. You can check the current schedule here .

Enjoy the Lido

The Lido is a place that you must not miss on your trip to Reading. In fact, it is definitely one of my highly recommended things to do in Reading as a one-of-a-kind experience. The Lido is a restaurant and a health club, with an outdoor swimming pool. From the outside it doesn’t look much but once you step inside it’s like entering a world of colour.

Unfortunately, when I visited the pool was only open to members due to the current restrictions. However, I did enjoy their wonderful tapas bar. The food was so good! After living two years in Southern Spain , I am kind of an expert when it comes to tapas. And I have to tell you, their tapas were not only delicious but also extremely flavoursome. The taste of the Spanish tortilla made me instantly virtually travel to Spain. The sobrasada croquettes were just sublime.

Go Shopping

Reading makes a fantastic destination for shopping, with two malls and plenty of independent high street shops along the historic centre. You can find anything here, from high fashion (and a John Lewis shop in a Victorian building) to record stores, memorabilia, rare liquor and even a hat tailor. Of course, we will all need one if we plan a trip to nearby Ascot!

Staying the Night?

Planning to spend the night in Reading? The town has great accommodation options, for all budgets. At the moment you can book the five star The Roseate Hotel for less than £70 a night, which is a fantastic deal and makes a perfect spa break. You can check the latest rates on Booking.com and read the reviews on TripAdvisor .

For other suggestions, check below the rates provided by my trusted partner Booking.com:

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Disclaimer: Some of the links on this website are “affiliate links.” This means that if you click on the link and do a purchase, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost for you. This helps me keep my website running and continue to share my travelling knowledge with you. I thank you for booking your flights or hotels using the links on my website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.

Please note that I have visited Reading as a guest of the tourism board.

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10 thoughts on “ Things to Do in Reading for a Fantastic Day Out ”

What a fascinating post with lots of history and interesting anecdotes interspersed. And so close to London and accessible by pubic transportation. The river cruise sounds very interesting with wonderful commentary. I love the connection with Oscar Wilde (and Banksy) with mixed feelings about the societal attitudes that had such devastating consequences for those who were different.

How cute is Reading?! I love a good Abbey, and how cool that there are Banksy murals there. Thanks for this roundup – will be adding Reading to my travel wishlist!

It’s funny, I’ve been through Reading station so many times but never spent any real time there exploring the place. Apart from going to a Festival once and the time I headed straight to a particular bar for a friends birthday. This post has shown that Reading is a place worth visiting!

We have never been to reading to visit but oh my, you have such a great selection of things to do and places to visit there

I never realised that Reading had so many fun activities to do and especially as its only 25 mins from London. This year we are going to staycation so doing local of Uk day trips . I will add this my list of places to visit.

I didn’t know there was a copy of The Bayeaux Tapestry in Reading, I will have to take my kids for a visit soon.

I’ve only ever been to Reading before when I used to go to Reading festival but I didn’t actually know how much there was to do there x

What a quaint-looking town! I didn’t know that tidbit about Oscar Wilde. His cell would be interesting to see. I would like to see the tapestry and the mural. Thank you for sharing!

I went to Reading years back but only went shopping and had lunch before coming back. Good to read about other things I can do if I go again. Might even stay a night that hotel is well priced.

We have driven past Reading so many times and never actually headed in to see what it has to offer. I definitely think I need to visit now – seems there are quite a few things I’d like to check out for myself.

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10 Best Things to Do in Reading

What is reading most famous for.

There are plenty of things to do in Reading, a vibrant town with a history dating back to Roman settlements in the 8th century. Situated at the meeting point of the River Thames and the River Kennet, you can find a delightful mix of old and new in this largest town in the county of Berkshire.

The UK town has a unique atmosphere that makes it a wonderful place to visit. Enjoy lively nightlife venues, outstanding art institutions and performance spaces. If you decide to visit, don't miss your chance to tour Reading 's centuries-old structures and soak up its numerous wide-open spaces.

What are the best things to do in Reading?

Reading abbey ruins, medieval ruins hosting food and cultural events.

Reading Abbey Ruins is the town's most enduring landmark. Dedicated to the Virgin and St John the Evangelist, the ancient site was established by King Henry I in June 1121. The ruins remain in remarkable condition, as you can wander through the ancient transept, the treasury, and the chapter house which is where the abbey's monks would meet.

The Reading Abbey Ruins serve as a stellar event space throughout the year. From food festivals and live performances to arts events, head along and enjoy a cultural showcase surrounded by this important medieval destination.

Location: Abbey St, Reading RG1 3BA, UK

Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1189 373400

Reading Museum

Stop for lunch and learn about reading's wonderful local history.

Find Reading Museum in the ornate Victorian Town Hall, at the town’s centre. There are 3 levels of historical displays that provide remarkable insight into the region and its venerable past. Founded in 1883 by local collector Horatio Bland, the museum's collection has expanded to include 500,000 objects across art, archaeology, and an array of other collector's items.

The Reading Museum is an excellent place to learn about the town's recent industrial history or delve into the 8th-century when the Romans occupied Britain. Once you've finished exploring the collection, head along to The Pantry Cafe and Kitchen to sample their signature slow-cooked chicken casserole.

Location: Blagrave St, Reading RG1 1QH, UK

Open: Tuesday–Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)

photo by Reading Tom ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

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Museum of english rural life, get a first-hand glimpse of british agricultural traditions.

Reading's Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) is one of the region's top art institutions. Here, both adults and kids will have a wonderful time exploring numerous displays based on English agriculture and country life.

Across 9 different gallery spaces, the museum features fascinating farming equipment dating back centuries. Each space has its own themes, including Shaping the Land, A Year on the Farm and Forces for Change. Just a short distance from Reading town centre, the MERL offers an inviting space where everyone can learn about farming traditions before taking a tea break at the onsite cafe.

Location: 6 Redlands Rd, Reading RG1 5EX, UK

Open: Tuesday–Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +44 (0)1183 788660

photo by Adamkoszary ( CC BY 4.0 ) modified

Thames Path

Go for a wander through the classic english countryside.

Thames Path is an excellent way to explore England's best-known river. Stretching for 184 miles, the Thames begins in the Cotswolds, in the west of the country, traversing through some incredibly picturesque landscapes before winding its way into London. But before it gets there, Reading's section of the Thames is particularly scenic.

Following alongside the river for miles, the Thames Path is where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll as the waterway passes through the town centre and out towards the community of Henley. You can enter the path next to Reading Bridge and make your way to the charming village of Sonning, where you'll find several great spots for afternoon tea.

Location: Thames Path, Reading, UK

photo by Jim Linwood ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Kings Meadow

Roam these lush gardens before heading to the rejuvenated lido for a swim.

Kings Meadow is one of the most popular parks in Reading. It offers a range of picnicking possibilities, as well as shaded pathways through the Coal Woodland. Bordered by the River Thames, there are also has several playgrounds and scenic spots to admire the riverboats.

On the western corner of the park, you'll come across Reading Lido. It's situated on the site of Edwardian-era baths, which was the oldest outdoor swimming pool in England. You can head inside for a dip before sitting down for a top-notch meal inside a modern restaurant, which serves Moorish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Location: 92 Napier Rd, Reading RG1 8AB, UK

Phone: +44 (0)1189 373737

photo by Ben Sutherland ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Basildon Park

Explore this world-renowned mansion and wander the gardens.

Basildon Park is certainly one of the most recognisable landmarks in Reading, having been seen by millions of people around the world. That's because the opulent 18th-century mansion is a key location for the long-running hit television series, Downtown Abbey . Even if you're not a fan of the show, there are still plenty of reasons to visit.

Since the mansion was bought in 1771, it's been the home of numerous noble families. You're welcome to take a tour of the mansion and explore its outstanding collection of English and European paintings dating back to the 17 th century. The mansion is also surrounded by 400 acres of parkland, featuring landscaped gardens, livestock, and places to unpack a picnic box.

Location: Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR, UK

Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1491 672382

photo by Glen Bowman ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Kennet & Avon Canal

Enjoy the scenic views provided by this classic british waterway.

The Kennet & Avon Canal is a landmark English canal, snaking for 87 miles. It connects London with the Bristol Channel and passes through countless villages and towns. There are a plethora of highlights lining its path, but you'll get the chance to see the pastoral fields of Wiltshire and the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.

The Reading section of the Kennet & Avon Canal follows a path right through the middle of the town centre and into County Lock, an area renowned for its shopping and dining opportunities. Dotted along this section, you'll find numerous spots where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as the boats slowly pass by.

photo by Ronald Saunders ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Visit the town's top shopping destination and stock up on high-end goods

The Oracle is Reading town centre's most popular shopping destination, featuring 80 high-end stores across massive department stores, tech giant brands, and stylish boutiques. Alongside the retail offering, the complex has interactive play areas for children alongside the bustling Vue Cinema, which screens both classic and blockbuster movies.

Set along the Kennet & Avon Canal, The Oracle is positioned right in the middle of the town. There are several riverfront cafes and bars, providing awesome places to spend a lazy weekend. Meanwhile, the shopping centre also boasts more than 20 awesome restaurants, serving everything from classic English dishes to Italian delights and hearty American burgers.

Location: Riverside Rd, Reading RG1 2AG, UK

Open: Monday–Friday from 9.30 am to 8 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1189 659000

View Island

Explore the native wildlife found amid this local secret.

View Island is a peaceful escape set in the middle of the Thames River. Spanning 4 acres of overgrown parkland, it's just a 5-minute walk from Reading Station and provides a lush little-known pocket close to the town centre. In the past, View Island was simply a downtrodden boatyard, but has since been trimmed down and made suitable for visitors.

The tiny island offers 2 main footpaths lined with picnic areas, benches, and 2 boardwalk bridges. It's also a great spot for wildlife lovers, as you'll see native birds like kingfishers, grebes and herons, while there are also migrant species such as blackcaps, chiffchaffs and whitethroats.

Location: Mill Rd, Reading RG1 8BP, UK

The Hexagon

Catch some world-class entertainment at reading's top performance venue.

The Hexagon is Reading's premier entertainment venue, having hosted a wealth of the world's best concerts, theatre productions, and comedians. Designed by architecture firm Robert Matthew Johnson Marshall in 1977, the striking Brutalist architecture ensures the towering structure stands out amongst Reading's streets.

The Hexagon has an impressive capacity of almost 1,700 guests, who jam-pack the venue to experience some world-class entertainment. Alongside the massive theatre space, there's also a delightful cafe and bar that serves tasty snack food and drinks before and during the show. Find your place in the stalls on the floor or high up in the balcony section and enjoy the performance.

Location: Queens Walk, Berkshire, Reading, Reading RG1 7UA, UK

Open: Hours vary by showtime

Phone: +44 (0)1189 606060

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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15 Best Things to Do in Reading, England

Have you ever dreamed of a trip to England?

\Visiting Reading, England is the perfect way to experience the best of British culture.

From its mesmerizing architecture and historic sites to its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, Reading has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1. thames path.

Reading’s Thames Path is a scenic and tranquil walk along the banks of the River Thames.

Stretching from rural Oxfordshire to the bustling city center, it’s a great way to explore the city and its surroundings.

You’ll pass by an array of landmarks, including Reading Abbey ruins and Hungerford Bridge, as well as plenty of pubs and restaurants along the way.

The path is well-marked with signs that explain the history of each landmark you come across.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous hike, this picturesque route has something for everyone; there’s even wildlife to take in if you’re lucky!

With stunning views of the river and countryside, it’s no wonder that this path has become so popular with locals and visitors alike.

Take your time to enjoy all that this path has to offer – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

2. Reading Museum

Reading Museum is a fantastic place to explore the history and culture of the area.

Located in the heart of Reading, this museum offers an array of engaging exhibits, art installations, and interactive displays.

It’s a great place to explore with family or friends and provides an unforgettable experience.

The museum has something for everyone.

From its extensive collections of local artifacts to its vibrant gallery space, there’s plenty to discover here.

There are also a number of activities on offer, from interactive workshops to theatre performances.

With such a variety of attractions, you’re sure to be entertained and educated in equal measure.

No visit is complete without experiencing some of the museum’s most iconic pieces.

From ancient coins to 16th-century maps, there’s plenty for history buffs to marvel at.

And if you want something more exciting than artifacts, why not take part in one of their guided tours?

You’ll get an up-close look at the fascinating stories behind Reading’s past – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

3. Reading Abbey

Reading Abbey is a must-see for any traveler visiting Reading, England.

This ancient abbey was founded by Henry I in 1121 and served as a great center of learning throughout the Middle Ages.

The ruins are still standing today, providing a fascinating glimpse into a distant past.

When you visit, you’ll find the remains of the grand abbey church, gatehouse, chapter house, and cloisters – perfect for taking in some history!

Aside from its historic importance, Reading Abbey is also home to some delightful gardens that are sure to enchant visitors.

There are acres of lush lawns to explore surrounded by tall trees and flowering shrubs.

You can wander through the peaceful cloister garth and admire beautiful rose beds, or take a stroll down the riverside path that borders the abbey grounds.

In addition to its natural beauty, there’s also an onsite cafe with delicious treats to enjoy after your exploration.

No trip to Reading would be complete without stopping by this incredible abbey – it’s an experience that will stay with you long after your visit is over!

4. Parthian Climbing Reading

Leaving the historic abbey behind, it’s time to explore Reading’s modern offerings.

For adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers alike, Parthian Climbing Reading is a must-see.

Located in the heart of the city, this indoor climbing center offers an exhilarating experience that can be enjoyed year-round.

The facility boasts over 1,000 square meters of wall space, with routes ranging from beginner to expert level.

With walls up to 14 meters high, climbers can challenge themselves while taking in stunning views of the surrounding area.

Experienced staff is on hand to provide instruction and support, so even novices will feel right at home.

It’s suitable for all ages and abilities too – perfect for family fun or a group outing with friends!

Whether you’re looking for a unique way to exercise or just something different to do in Reading, Parthian Climbing Reading promises an unforgettable experience.

And with regular events and competitions taking place throughout the year, there’s always something new to explore.

So come along and take on the challenge – your adventurous spirit will thank you!

5. Kennet And Avon Canal

If you’re looking for a scenic way to explore Reading, England, then look no further than the Kennet and Avon Canal .

This beloved canal offers visitors a chance to take in the beauty of the area while enjoying a leisurely stroll or bicycle ride.

The canal is a perfect spot to while away an afternoon, with its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.

Along its banks, visitors will find plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting – from ducks to swans, herons, and kingfishers.

As well as a variety of aquatic bird life, there is also plenty of fish swimming in the waters below.

For those looking for something more lively, boat hire is available on the canal as well.

Taking out a boat gives you the chance to fully appreciate the beauty of this historic waterway and explore its many winding routes and picturesque locks.

Whether you’re taking in the sights or just enjoying the tranquility at your own pace, a trip along Kennet and Avon Canal is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

6. The Oracle

The Oracle in Reading, England is the perfect spot for a fun day out, and the ultimate shopping experience.

With over 90 stores to explore, you’ll find something that caters to all your needs.

And if shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry; there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a bite at.

You can even catch a movie at the Vue Cinema or have a few drinks in one of the many bars.

But what makes The Oracle stand out from other shopping centers is its unique atmosphere.

It’s an oasis in the city center where you can spend time with friends and family while enjoying some retail therapy.

There’s something special about being able to take a break from everyday life and just relax in such a vibrant environment.

Whether you’re looking for new clothes, or souvenirs or simply want to unwind after work – The Oracle has it all!

7. Ascot Racecourse

Ascot Racecourse is an iconic destination for horse racing fans.

It’s been hosting some of the world’s most prestigious horse races since 1711 and is a must-see for any visitor to Reading.

From the grandstands to the parade ring, you can appreciate the elegance and grandeur of this historic course.

On race days, it’s a spectacle like no other – the atmosphere is electric!

The history and traditions of Ascot Racecourse set it apart from other racecourses around the world.

And with so much to do on-site, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a punter or just looking to enjoy some time at one of Britain’s most famous venues.

Whether you want to watch live racing or shop ‘til you drop at one of their numerous retail outlets, Ascot Racecourse has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience in Reading, Ascot Racecourse should not be missed.

8. Mapledurham Estate

Departing from the thrill of Ascot Racecourse, visitors to Reading can take a short drive to Mapledurham Estate.

This sprawling country estate is teeming with things to do and explore.

The historic house dates back centuries and contains a wealth of history.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the manor, learning all about its fascinating past while admiring its beautiful architecture.

There’s also an adventure playground for children, as well as gardens and woodlands, to explore.

For those looking for something more active, there are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and horse riding around the estate.

For a truly unique experience, visitors can even sample some of the estate’s own award-winning beer!

In addition to the house, gardens, and woodlands, there is also a charming watermill that serves both as a museum and tea room.

Here visitors can learn about local history while enjoying home-baked cakes and refreshments in tranquil surroundings.

Mapledurham Estate is the perfect place for anyone looking to escape into nature while still being able to immerse themselves in fascinating history.

With so much on offer, it’s an ideal destination for families or couples looking to get away from it all and enjoy some quality time together in beautiful surroundings.

9. Thames River Cruise

The Thames River Cruise offers one of the best ways to explore Reading, England.

Boarding at Caversham Lock, you’ll be taken on a leisurely journey along the river.

As you cruise, you’ll pass by some of Reading’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Abbey Ruins and Oracle shopping center.

You’ll also get to see the beautiful countryside that surrounds the town, giving you an appreciation for its rich history and culture.

The cruise itself is very relaxing; listen to the commentary about the sights you pass or sit back and enjoy the scenery.

There are plenty of stops during your trip so don’t worry if you want to disembark and explore somewhere in particular.

You can even bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy while admiring the views!

When booking your Thames River Cruise make sure to look out for special offers or packages that include other attractions in Reading such as a tour of Windsor Castle or Oxford University.

Whatever package you choose, this is an experience that won’t soon be forgotten!

10. Basildon Park

Having sailed along the River Thames, it’s time to explore the awe-inspiring Basildon Park.

This grand estate is a sight to behold, with its stunning Palladian house set amidst miles of parkland and woodland.

From the moment you arrive, you’re transported back in time, as you take in the sweeping views of this 18th-century masterpiece.

The park was once home to the famous Lord Ilchester, and today offers visitors an opportunity to explore his beautiful gardens and grounds.

Take a stroll through the magnificent formal gardens, where you’ll find elegant terraces, cascading waterfalls, and sculptured topiary.

You can also discover hidden pathways that lead through secret woodlands and meadows full of wildflowers.

For those feeling energetic, there are miles of tranquil walking trails to explore – perfect for a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Basildon Park provides an unforgettable experience; a journey into history that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax in peaceful surroundings, this magnificent estate has something for everyone.

11. Reading Festival

Reading Festival is a must-see for anyone visiting Reading, England.

This iconic British music festival has been held annually since 1971 and attracts over 80,000 people each year.

It’s one of the biggest festivals in the UK, with an incredible lineup of rock, indie, punk, metal, and hip-hop acts.

Plus, it offers an array of activities from camping to comedy to food stalls – there’s something for everyone!

The atmosphere at Reading Festival is truly electric.

As soon as you arrive on site you’ll be surrounded by other music fans who share your passion.

The energy of the crowd is infectious and will make you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

Everyone here is united in their love of music and ready to have a good time – there’s no better place to let your hair down and dance until the early hours!

It’s easy to get lost in the moment at Reading Festival; you can forget all your worries and just enjoy the moment.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the last act has finished playing, make sure Reading Festival is at top of your list when visiting England.

12. Wellington Country Park

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the Reading Festival behind, nature lovers can take a short drive to Wellington Country Park .

This glorious park is full of adventure and exploration opportunities, with over 450 acres of stunning scenery.

It features an adventure playground, a lake to paddle in, and miles of woodland trails to explore.

Kids will love the exciting activities on offer at the park, from the thrill-seeking zip wire to the more relaxed tractor rides.

There’s also a magnificent treehouse for those looking for high-level views over the river Thames.

And if that wasn’t enough, there are plenty of animals and birds to spot too!

With its friendly atmosphere and abundance of activities, Wellington Country Park is an ideal destination for families seeking fun away from Reading Festival.

Whether you’re looking for a quieter afternoon or an action-packed day out, there’s something here for everyone – making it a great way to end your trip to Reading.

13. Museum Of English Rural Life

Situated just outside the city center of Reading, the Museum of English Rural Life offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about England’s great rural heritage.

This museum is packed with fascinating displays and exhibitions that bring history to life.

From traditional farming implements to agricultural machinery, the museum has something for everyone.

There are also interactive activities designed to engage kids in an exploration of rural life.

The museum is home to many interesting artifacts from all over England, including furniture and pottery from the 16th century, as well as items related to the Industrial Revolution.

It is a great place to explore and discover more about England’s past.

Visitors can even get hands-on experience by trying out some of the tools used in rural settings such as milking cows or driving tractors.

With its informative displays and interactive activities, the Museum of English Rural Life is sure to be a hit with visitors looking for an immersive experience in England’s countryside culture.

Whether you’re interested in learning more about farming or just want a break from city life, this museum provides plenty for everyone to enjoy!

14. Kings Meadow

Kings Meadow is a must-see in Reading, England.

Located on the River Thames side of town, it’s a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy nature.

The meadow is home to lush green grasses, flowers, and trees that create a tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can take advantage of the many walking paths, picnic areas, and benches for those who want to sit back and take in the peacefulness of the area.

The wide open space gives people plenty of room to roam around or just enjoy some quiet reflection.

For an added bonus, Kings Meadow is also home to a number of historical sites.

From ancient artifacts to old churches and monuments, there’s something here for everyone to explore.

It’s easy to spend an afternoon wandering around this area discovering all it has to offer!

Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or an interesting history lesson, Kings Meadow is worth visiting when in Reading.

15. The Hexagon

The Hexagon is Reading’s premier entertainment venue and it’s a great place to explore during a stay in the city.

Located just off the center of town, this modern theatre has been providing world-class performances for over 40 years.

It hosts some of the biggest names in comedy, music, theatre, and dance as well as hosting local events such as school productions and amateur dramatics.

The Hexagon has something for everyone – it’s the perfect destination to spend an evening or afternoon with family or friends.

The Hexagon also features an impressive array of restaurants and bars, so you can make a night out of it.

There’s a range of eateries from traditional English fare to international cuisine, so you can find something to suit everyone’s taste buds.

When you’re not watching shows at The Hexagon, you can check out the nearby shops and attractions – from high street favorites like Marks & Spencer to independent boutiques offering unique items from around Reading.

With plenty to see and do, The Hexagon is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Best Things to Do in Reading – Final Thoughts

Wrapping up my list of the best things to do in Reading, England, I have to say that this small town is full of surprises.

From the Thames Path to the Museum of English Rural Life, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for culture or adventure, Reading has it all.

When visiting this city, be sure to check out The Hexagon, Kings Meadow, and Wellington Country Park – these three places offer a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere.

And if you’re looking for something different and adventurous, Parthian Climbing Reading is a must-see!

Overall, I’d highly recommend a visit to Reading – it’s a great place for all ages and interests!

From its history and culture to its outdoor activities, there really is something for everyone here.

So why not take some time out and experience all that Reading has to offer?

You won’t regret it!

What are the best things to do in Reading with kids?

The best things to do in Reading with kids are visiting Reading Museum, Reading Abbey, and Basildon Park.

What to do during the day in Reading?

The best things to do during the day in Reading are visiting Reading Abbey Ruins, Donnington Castle, and Wellington Country Park.

Is Reading worth visiting?

Yes, Reading is worth visiting because of its rich heritage and diverse communities. It is also considered an agricultural center in the UK.

You may also like:

• Best walks in Reading
• Best things to do in England

Will is an avid hillwalker and traveler. You may find him surfing in Cornwall or hiking in the Yorkshire Dales.

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You are here: Places To Visit > Reading

Type: Towns & Villages

One of the largest towns in the UK with a energetic atmosphere to match, Reading is nevertheless surrounded by some stunning Royal Berkshire countryside.

Set around the confluence of the River Thames and the River Kennet, it's as easy to get away from it all in Reading as it is to find bustling shopping centres and lively bars.

Those looking for a little retail therapy should head straight for The Oracle Shopping Centre - one of the best shopping destinations in South East England. You'll find all the favourite high-street names, as well as independent and craft stores in the nearby streets.

For all its modern amenities, Reading is a place with a fascinating heritage. As well as the town where Oscar Wilde wrote his famous Ballad of Reading Gaol, Reading has a 12th Century ruined Abbey, and even a huge replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. Today it's also the site of one of the biggest and longest running music festivals in the UK - The Reading Festival.

Reading is perfectly located for either a short trip from London, or as a base for exploring nearby attractions. It's a short drive from the glorious town of Henley-on-Thames or the dreaming spires of the city of Oxford .

Things to do in Reading

• Reading Museum is a great child-friendly museum with plenty of exhibits and hands-on attractions, as well as a Bayeux Tapestry replica.
• Why not visit The Wind in the Willows at the River and Rowing Museum in nearby Henley-on-Thames.
• Head up the River Thames to the historic town of Windsor to see one of the most iconic attractions in England - Windsor Castle .
• Head to nearby Basildon Park and discover for yourself why it was chosen as the setting for the acclaimed 2005 film Pride & Prejudice.

Towns near Reading

Explore the local area with these places to visit and villages near Reading.

• Early (2 miles)
• Woodley (2 miles)
• Sonning (3 miles)
• Pangbourne (5 miles)
• Wokingham (5 miles)
• Henley (6 miles)

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Tripadvisor, map & directions.

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Road Directions

Reading is about 40 miles west of London, is easily accessible via the major motorway networks of the M4 and M3 and is well served by public transport.

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Train strikes in April and May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, also mean some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

Saturday 6 April 2024 08:45, UK

Drivers at 16 rail companies have started a fresh wave of strikes, plus overtime bans, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay and will take place across April and May.

Tube strikes planned for April and May have been called off.

In an "entirely separate dispute", ASLEF members will also strike and refuse to do overtime at LNER on specific dates in April "because of the company's failure to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery", the union said.

LNER's alleged failure to adhere to bargaining machinery refers to it using managers to drive trains on strike days.

People are advised to check before they travel.

Here's what's happening when:

Rail strike dates

Friday 5 April

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, and CrossCountry.

Saturday 6 April

Strikes will affect Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine Trains.

Monday 8 April

Strikes will affect Greater Anglia, c2c, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway main line and depot drivers, and SWR Island Line.

Overtime ban dates

Thursday 4 April

Tuesday 9 April

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

LNER action dates

Members will strike on Saturday 20 April and refuse to work non-contractual overtime from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April .

Why are the strikes happening?

ASLEF says the LNER strikes are because of "the company's persistent failure to comply with existing agreements".

Nigel Roebuck, an ASLEF organiser in the northeast, said the operator had been trying to get "every driver manager and driver instructor to work on strike days".

A spokesperson said: "LNER has used managers - paid £500 a shift - to drive trains on strike days and, after the expiry of the last non-contractual overtime agreement, on most days of the week now.

"There is no agreement in place for management to drive services on mainline infrastructure.

"It results in branch line services - such as Lincoln, Skipton, and Harrogate - being cancelled because of a lack of route knowledge and means virtually no driver training is being done."

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Mick Whelan, ASLEF general secretary, said of the rail strikes : "Last month, when we announced renewed mandates for industrial action, because under the Tories' draconian anti-union laws we have to ballot our members every six months, we called on the train companies, and the government, to come to the table for meaningful talks to negotiate a new pay deal for train drivers who have not had an increase in salary since 2019.

"Our members voted overwhelmingly - yet again - for strike action."

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A Rail Delivery Group spokesperson said: "Nobody wins when industrial action impacts people's lives and livelihoods, and we will work hard to minimise any disruption to our passengers.

"We want to resolve this dispute, but the ASLEF leadership need to recognise that hard-pressed taxpayers are continuing to contribute an extra £54m a week just to keep services running post-COVID.

"We continue to seek an agreement with the ASLEF leadership and remain open to talks to find a solution to this dispute."

When the strikes on the London Underground were announced, Finn Brennan, ASLEF's full-time organiser on the network, said in a statement: "ASLEF Tube train drivers will strike in April and May in a long-running dispute over London Underground's failure to give assurances that changes to our members' terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement and that all existing agreements will be honoured.

"Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers' working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.

Sadiq Khan said they had been called off after "talking and engaging with transport staff and trade unions rather than working against them".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

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• Health and social care
• National Health Service
• Health workforce

Working definition of trauma-informed practice

• Office for Health Improvement & Disparities

Published 2 November 2022

© Crown copyright 2022

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice

Trauma-informed approaches have become increasingly cited in policy and adopted in practice as a means for reducing the negative impact of trauma experiences and supporting mental and physical health outcomes. They build on evidence developed over several decades. However, there has been a lack of consensus within the health and social care sector on how trauma-informed practice is defined, what its key principles are and how it can be built into services and systems.

This document seeks to address this gap by providing a working definition of trauma-informed practice for practitioners working in the health and care sector. The working definition presented in this document reflects the original internationally recognised definition developed by the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) . The evidence base exploring the use of trauma-informed practice in different settings and sectors is still being developed. This working definition will be kept under review and updated where appropriate to reflect new evidence.

Trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as harmful or life threatening. While unique to the individual, generally the experience of trauma can cause lasting adverse effects, limiting the ability to function and achieve mental, physical, social, emotional or spiritual well-being.

Realise that trauma can affect individuals, groups and communities

Trauma-informed practice is an approach to health and care interventions which is grounded in the understanding that trauma exposure can impact an individual’s neurological, biological, psychological and social development.

Recognise the signs, symptoms and widespread impact of trauma

Trauma-informed practice aims to increase practitioners’ awareness of how trauma can negatively impact on individuals and communities, and their ability to feel safe or develop trusting relationships with health and care services and their staff.

It aims to improve the accessibility and quality of services by creating culturally sensitive, safe services that people trust and want to use. It seeks to prepare practitioners to work in collaboration and partnership with people and empower them to make choices about their health and wellbeing.

Trauma-informed practice acknowledges the need to see beyond an individual’s presenting behaviours and to ask, ‘What does this person need?’ rather than ‘What is wrong with this person?’.

Prevent re-traumatisation

It seeks to avoid re-traumatisation which is the re-experiencing of thoughts, feelings or sensations experienced at the time of a traumatic event or circumstance in a person’s past. Re-traumatisation is generally triggered by reminders of previous trauma which may or may not be potentially traumatic in themselves.

The purpose of trauma-informed practice is not to treat trauma-related difficulties, which is the role of trauma-specialist services and practitioners. Instead, it seeks to address the barriers that people affected by trauma can experience when accessing health and care services.

Key principles of trauma-informed practice

There are 6 principles of trauma-informed practice: safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and cultural consideration.

The physical, psychological and emotional safety of service users and staff is prioritised, by:

• people knowing they are safe or asking what they need to feel safe
• there being reasonable freedom from threat or harm
• attempting to prevent re-traumatisation
• putting policies, practices and safeguarding arrangements in place

Trustworthiness

Transparency exists in an organisation’s policies and procedures, with the objective of building trust among staff, service users and the wider community, by:

• the organisation and staff explaining what they are doing and why
• the organisation and staff doing what they say they will do
• expectations being made clear and the organisation and staff not overpromising

Service users are supported in shared decision-making, choice and goal setting to determine the plan of action they need to heal and move forward, by:

• ensuring service users and staff have a voice in the decision-making process of the organisation and its services
• listening to the needs and wishes of service users and staff
• explaining choices clearly and transparently
• acknowledging that people who have experienced or are experiencing trauma may feel a lack of safety or control over the course of their life which can cause difficulties in developing trusting relationships

Collaboration

The value of staff and service user experience is recognised in overcoming challenges and improving the system as a whole, by:

• using formal and informal peer support and mutual self-help
• the organisation asking service users and staff what they need and collaboratively considering how these needs can be met
• focussing on working alongside and actively involving service users in the delivery of services

Empowerment

Efforts are made to share power and give service users and staff a strong voice in decision-making, at both individual and organisational level, by:

• validating feelings and concerns of staff and service users
• listening to what a person wants and needs
• supporting people to make decisions and take action
• acknowledging that people who have experienced or are experiencing trauma may feel powerless to control what happens to them, isolated by their experiences and have feelings of low self-worth

Cultural consideration

Move past cultural stereotypes and biases based on, for example, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, geography, race or ethnicity by:

• offering access to gender responsive services
• leveraging the healing value of traditional cultural connections
• incorporating policies, protocols and processes that are responsive to the needs of individuals served

Other professional resources and tools

• Office of Health Improvement and Disparities’ Vulnerabilities: applying All Our Health
• e-learning for healthcare: All Our Health: Vulnerabilities and trauma-informed practice
• Trauma-informed practice toolkit: Scottish Government
• Trauma-Informed Wales

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Storm Kathleen: Scotland hit by high winds, heavy rain and travel disruption

Flood and wind warnings remain in place, with Sepa warning of ‘real danger to life’ on coastal roads and paths

High winds and heavy rain from Storm Kathleen persisted through Sunday, battering parts of Scotland and Ireland and disrupting travel.

The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) had 18 regional flood alerts and 37 flood warnings in place in Scotland. They have been in force since Saturday.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow wind warning from 9am on Sunday covering parts of the west and northern Highlands, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides. It will remain in force until 11:59pm.

Winds as high as 73mph were recorded in Drumalbin, South Lanarkshire.

A previous warning stretched from the Scottish Borders to just south of Stirling. It spanned the west coast, throughout much of central Scotland, and ended just short of the east coast.

Janine Hensman, Sepa’s flood duty manager, said: “Across Sunday, we’ll continue to see high tides, storm surges and large waves across coastal areas. This combination is particularly dangerous – especially around high tides. There is real danger to life from wave overtopping, particularly around causeways, coastal roads and paths.

“While the risk is greatest around high tide times, our message is clear: Take extra care if you are near the coast at any point and stay well clear of waves and water. Be careful when travelling around exposed coastal areas and don’t walk or drive through flood water, as there may be hidden hazards.”

She added: “Whilst Storm Kathleen will ease on Sunday evening, another weather system is on the way. Significant flooding from rivers and surface water is possible in southern, central and north-eastern areas on Tuesday, with coastal flooding continuing due to high spring tides.

“Flood alerts and warnings are in place, so stay up to date though our website. We will continue to work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7 and review regional flood alerts and local flood warnings as required.”

The Met Office has warned of potential power cuts, damage to buildings, poor mobile phone coverage and danger to life because of large waves and debris from beaches being thrown on to seafronts. About 34,000 people were left without electricity on Saturday, with a few thousand customers remaining without power overnight, but by Sunday afternoon almost all had had their supply restored.

CalMac, Scotland’s largest ferry operator, cancelled a number of its services and many other ferries were operating on reduced timetables, while others faced potential disruption.

ScotRail also faced a number of disruptions throughout the day, including to its Helensburgh Central and Dumbarton Central services.

However, the services, according to ScotRail, were “starting to return to normal”.

On Saturday, more than 140 flights throughout the UK were cancelled as a result of the storm.

In Ireland, a girl was swept out to sea from the east pier of Dún Laoghaire harbour in County Dublin on Saturday evening. Rescuers were able to pull her out of the water within eight and a half minutes, with a lifeboat volunteer revealing that pockets of air trapped under her coat helped keep her afloat before the rescue.

Andrew Sykes, a volunteer helm with the RNLI, told PA Media that the stormy conditions made the rescue operation difficult.

“With the high winds and storm we were experiencing, with large waves and surge coming off the pier, to get alongside her was extremely difficult,” he said. “She would be pushed one way and we would be pushed another,”

The girl was taken to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Titanic Belfast was forced to close after strong winds damaged part of its roof on Saturday. However, the yellow wind warning covering Donegal, Mayo and west Galway was lifted at 4pm on Sunday.

More on this story

Storm Kathleen sweeps across west of UK and Ireland – in pictures

Dozens of flights cancelled as Storm Kathleen hits west of UK

Storm Kathleen to bring unseasonably wet and windy weather to UK and Ireland

UK at risk of summer water shortages and hosepipe bans, scientists warn

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UK Easter weather and travel: ferries hit by winds as getaway begins for millions

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