Things To Do
in Reading
Reading is a historic town located in Berkshire, England. It is known for its picturesque riverside setting along the River Thames. The town features a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
Reading also hosts a renowned annual music festival, attracting visitors from all over the country.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Reading Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café to energize yourself for the day's adventures.
Stroll through the Forbury Gardens and admire the stunning floral displays. Take a break for lunch at one of the local eateries offering traditional British cuisine.
Wind down with a walk along the River Thames and enjoy the scenery. End your day with a casual dinner at a pub, sampling some local ales.
Visit the ruins of Reading Abbey to soak in the rich history. Take some time to explore the surrounding gardens.
Enjoy lunch at the King’s Meadow and consider a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the site. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Hexagon Theatre catching a matinee performance.
Dine at a historic restaurant and experience the local cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Reading Abbey and the Forbury Gardens.
- A well-connected transport system, including a train station that provides easy access to London.
- Diverse population with a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
- Access to beautiful parks and green spaces, such as Prospect Park and Dinton Pastures.
- A growing economy with job opportunities in various sectors, including technology, finance, and education.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other nearby towns.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours can be a challenge.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities like London.
- Some parts of the town may be considered less safe, with reports of crime in certain areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy, not appealing for everyone.
Best Activities in Reading
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk along the River Thames, taking in beautiful views and nature.
Visit the stunning Basildon Park and explore its expansive grounds and woodlands.
Experience the picturesque Chiltern Hills by taking a cycling trip through its scenic routes and beautiful countryside.
Places to Visit in Reading
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful gardens with a historic abbey ruins, perfect for scenic views and photography.
Picturesque walking path along the River Thames offering stunning views of the river and surrounding areas.
Historic ruins providing unique photo opportunities and a glimpse into the city's past.
Food in Reading
Reading Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender, slow-cooked ribs smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce, served with hearty sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw. A popular dish at the Oracle Riverside area.
Must-Try!
Crispy-skinned pork belly sourced from local Berkshire farms, often served with apple chutney and a side of buttered vegetables. Found in many traditional English pubs throughout Reading.
A delightful tea cake named after Dick Whittington, a renowned figure in Reading's folklore. These sweet treats can be savored at local tearooms and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held on the first and third Saturday of each month, the market offers a wide range of locally sourced produce, artisan cheeses, freshly baked goods, and street food stalls offering global cuisines.
An eclectic gathering of food trucks and stalls in the town center offering a variety of street food options, from authentic Mexican tacos to gourmet burgers and vegan delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Reading, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others, especially in public spaces and queues.
British culture values politeness and courtesy, so it is important to use 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me' when interacting with others, and to queue in an orderly and respectful manner.
Punctuality is highly valued in the UK, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social engagements.
Safety
Tipping in Reading
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United Kingdom, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A standard practice is to leave a 10-15% tip if the service was satisfactory. Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, so it's important to check before adding an additional tip.
In Reading, United Kingdom, most businesses accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Contactless payment is also widely accepted. Cash is still commonly used, especially for smaller transactions and at local markets. It's always good to check with the establishment regarding their preferred payment methods before making a purchase.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather and blooming flowers
Ideal for outdoor activities with longer daylight hours and pleasant temperatures
Beautiful foliage and cultural events like the Reading Festival
Chilly weather, but festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and events
Reading at Night
Hiking in Reading
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large public park offering several walking trails, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes, ideal for a gentle hike.
A scenic estate with trails along the River Thames, featuring historic buildings and picturesque views.
A flat walking path along the canal, great for leisurely hikes, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy riverside scenery.
Located a short drive away, this forest offers a variety of paths and trails suitable for all hiking levels, surrounded by beautiful pine trees.
A short nature trail with interesting flora and fauna, providing a lovely spot for a family hike.
A wildlife park that also offers a nice walking route alongside the River Thames with stunning views and picnicking spots.
Aiports
How to reach Reading by plane.
The primary airport serving London, located approximately 23 miles east of Reading. It is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Located about 45 miles southeast of Reading, Gatwick is the second busiest airport in London and offers a variety of international flights.
Situated around 50 miles northeast of Reading, Luton Airport is known for low-cost carriers and serves numerous European destinations.
Approximately 60 miles northeast of Reading, Stansted primarily handles international flights and is a base for several budget airlines.
Located about 70 miles northwest of Reading, Birmingham Airport is the seventh busiest airport in the UK and provides a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Comprising the largest demographic group, including British, Irish, and other White backgrounds.
Including groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian backgrounds.
This group includes individuals of African, Caribbean, or other Black backgrounds.
Refers to individuals identifying with more than one ethnic group.
Includes a variety of ethnicities not classified in the other categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Reading, with local teams including Reading F.C., which competes in the English Football League Championship.
Rugby is another popular sport in Reading, with clubs such as Reading Abbey RFC offering opportunities for both adults and youth players.
Cricket is widely played in Reading, with several local clubs and leagues fostering both amateur and competitive play.
Running is a popular pastime in Reading, with various running clubs and events, including the annual Reading Half Marathon.
Cycling is common in Reading, supported by numerous cycling paths and the presence of clubs catering to both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reading.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Reading's eateries are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes offering dedicated menus featuring innovative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a variety of gluten-free options at eateries across Reading, from gluten-free pizza and pasta to delectable desserts.