Reading is a lively city inhabited since Roman times; The town was founded in the 8th century—the biggest city in Berkshire. Confluence of Thames and Kennet rivers. You’ll find a wonderful blend of the county’s historic past and modern amenities here.
One of the best towns in the United Kingdom that has an endearing character. Explore exciting clubs, world-class museums, and exciting theaters. Don’t miss your opportunity to see Reading’s historic buildings and relax in the city’s many open areas.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY, AND WHAT SHOULD I DO IN READING
The impressive Abbey Ruins consist of the south transept, the treasury, the chapter house, the dormitory, and the refectory.
ABBEY RUINS
The ruins of Reading Abbey have been a fixture in the city for centuries. Ancient site founded by King Henry I in June 1121 and dedicated to the Virgin and St. John the Evangelist. The remains are remarkably well preserved. Visitors can see the abbey’s former transept, treasury, and chapter house.
Reading Abbey Ruins are in high demand as a year-round event venue. Visit a cultural extravaganza around this significant medieval landmark. Enjoy everything from cuisine festivals and live performances to artistic activities.
READING MUSEUM
Reading Museum may be found in the beautiful Victorian Town Hall in the city’s heart. There are three floors of exhibits that provide fascinating details. The area’s long and illustrious history. The Museum was established in 1883 by local collector Horatio Bland. It now houses a collection of over 500,000 works of art and archaeological artifacts—also several other types of collector’s items.
Reading’s industrial past and the Roman occupation of Britain in the eighth century are well represented in the Museum. After shopping, visit The Pantry Cafe and Kitchen to enjoy their famous slow-cooked chicken casseroles.
Reading Museum is an enjoyable day out for all families where you can discover the local history, the Abbey Ruins, animals, art, and more.
MUSEUM OF ENGLISH RURAL LIFE
One of the best museums in the area is Reading’s MERL (Museum of English Rural Life). There are several exhibits here on English agriculture and rural life that adults and children will enjoy. The Museum’s collection of historic agricultural tools spans decades and nine exhibit halls.
MERL is conveniently located not far from Reading’s downtown. A warm and welcoming place where visitors may learn about agricultural methods. Customs and relax with a cup of tea.
THAMES PATH
Following the Thames Path is a great way to learn about England’s most famous river. The Cotswolds, west of the nation, is where the Thames starts. It’s a long journey through breathtakingly beautiful scenery to London. However, the Thames is gorgeous in Reading.
The Thames Path is a long, scenic walkway along the river from the heart of town to the suburb of Henley. The walkway adjacent to Reading Bridge leads to the picturesque village of Sonning, where you may have afternoon tea at numerous lovely establishments.
Take a stroll in the traditional English countryside.
KINGS MEADOW
Kings Meadow is a very well-liked park in Reading. Numerous picnic areas and wooded paths through the coal woodland are available. There may be several playgrounds and attractive places to watch riverboats along the river’s edge.
Reading Lido is located in the northwest part of the park. It occupies the site of the original Edwardian baths, which housed England’s first outdoor swimming pool. You may plunge into the indoor pool before enjoying an exquisite supper at the trendy onsite restaurant specializing in Moorish and Mediterranean cuisine.
BASILDON PARK
Millions of people all around the globe have watched footage of Basildon Park. Making it one of the city’s most recognizable monuments. The opulent palace from the 18th century is a crucial setting for the enduringly popular TV series Downtown Abbey. You don’t have to be a fan of the program to enjoy a trip there.
Many wealthy families have called this palace their home since it was first purchased in 1771. There is an excellent collection of English and European paintings going back to the 17th century that you can see during a tour of the estate. There are 400 acres of grass around the estate where guests may relax on picnic blankets and enjoy the scenery.
An impressive Georgian mansion surrounded by glorious parkland.
KENNET & AVON CANAL
The Kennet & Avon Canal is a historic England waterway stretching 87 kilometers. It runs through many little communities from London to the Bristol Channel. The route passes through many interesting sites, including Wiltshire’s bucolic meadows and the Cotswolds’ gentle hills.
The County Lock portion of the Kennet & Avon Canal runs through the heart of downtown Reading. And ends with the canal’s namesake lock. Several resting places dot this stretch. They allow you to relax in the sun and watch the passing boats in peace.
THE ORACLE
With eighty upscale retailers, including major department stores, IT megastores, and chic boutiques, The Oracle is Reading’s most visited shopping complex in the city’s heart. The Vue Cinema shows classic and blockbuster films. And the interactive play areas for youngsters round out the complex’s retail offerings.
The Oracle, located on the banks of the Kennet and Avon Canals, serves as a focal point for the community. A weekend may be spent lazily at one of the many riverside cafés or pubs. At the same time, the retail center is home to over twenty fantastic eateries where you can get everything from traditional English fare to Italian specialties.
