You may be surprised when you visit Reading for the first time. Much more than just a convenient base for visitors to London, this is an ancient town that combines a rich history with cultural heritage and a riverside location. It is also within easy reach of Berkshire’s many attractions: Reading has lots to offer for all types of leisure visitors.
Contents
Why Visit Reading?
Reading’s location on both the River Thames and the Kennet and Avon Canal makes it a great centre for walks and river cruises. But it also has a long history, evidenced by the medieval Reading Abbey, the Victorian architecture in the town centre, and the town’s excellent museums. Then there are literary connections and cultural attractions.
Visitors in search of relaxation can enjoy green space and the spa facilities of the historic Thames Lido, and there are shops, restaurants and hotels to enhance your visit. And, of course, Reading’s position in the heart of Berkshire but close to London, combined with its excellent transport links, makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
History And Heritage In Reading
Reading has a long history, from its Saxon origins to its royal connections in the Middle Ages, to expansion during the Industrial Revolution. There is plenty to discover, from the Abbey Quarter and Forbury Gardens, to the varied and interesting museums (where you will find exhibits ranging from a full sized replica of the Bayeux Tapestry to old farm machinery to a collection of Ladybird books). And there are some intriguing literary connections…
Read more: Explore The History And Heritage Of Reading, Berkshire.
Waterside Attractions
Reading is a waterside town. It is situated on both the River Thames and the River Kennet, and the Kennet and Avon Canal starts here. On a sunny day you will want to take to the water, and I enjoyed a Thames Explorer boat trip, a 90 minute cruise through peaceful countryside towards Mapledurham Weir. Thames Rivercruise also offer a range of other trips, including lunch cruises and private hire.
Along the canal you can explore with the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust. Self-drive boats are also available.
The Thames Lido
A different way of enjoying the water is at the historic Thames Lido. This was built in 1902 as the Ladies Swimming Bath, allowing Edwardian women to bathe in privacy. It closed in 1972 but has since been restored and renovated to become a rather smart, Scandinavian-themed luxury pool and spa venue.
As well as the pool there is a sauna and steam room, and massages are available. Even if you don’t fancy a swim it is worth going to the Lido for the bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy seriously good food from a Moroccan-influenced menu.
Green Space And Walking Trails
Reading is a green city, with lots of parks and open spaces. In the town centre you will find Forbury Gardens, beside the abbey ruins. And on the north bank of the Thames are the large Christchurch Meadows and the historic Caversham Court Gardens.
Keen walkers will find hiking paths alongside the River Thames and the canal. If you are looking for a longer trek, the Thames Path is a National Trail following the entire course of the river. And the English Way of St James runs from Reading via Winchester to Southampton. The Reading Walks Festival takes place each year in May, and offers a wide range of walks for different interests and abilities.
Theatres And Restaurants
Reading has a number of theatres where you can enjoy a wide range of productions. Particularly recommended is The Mill at Sonning (5 km from the town centre – a pleasant walk along the Thames Path if you have the time). Housed in an old watermill which still generates its own electricity, the theatre offers a complete evening out with dinner and a performance included in its tickets.
There is no shortage of places to eat in Reading. You will find a particularly good choice of restaurants in Caversham (on the north side of the Thames) and alongside the River Kennet by the Oracle shopping centre. Special mention has to go to Whittington’s Tea Barge next to Reading Bridge, a great place for a light lunch or afternoon tea (the latter is excellent and is served in the barge’s famous collection of mismatched china teapots and plates).
Reading As A Base
Reading is just 25 minutes by train from London Paddington Station, and it is also on the Elizabeth Line, giving easy access to numerous central destinations. Combined with the availability of affordable hotel options, this makes it a great base for exploring the capital.
But it is also an excellent centre for the Great West Way, the touring route between London and Bristol. The Great Western Mainline gives easy access to destinations like Windsor, Oxford, and Newbury, and further afield to Bath and Bristol. And if you have a car there are numerous places to take a day trip, from vineyards to historic towns and villages, from National Trust properties to the ancient Roman town of Silchester.
Where To Stay In Reading
There is a wide choice of places to stay when you visit Reading. I stayed at the Village Hotel by Caversham Bridge, and you can read more about my visit here. Elsewhere Reading has traditionally attracted more business than leisure travellers, so you may find that some hotels give better deals at weekends. The Pentahotel Reading is an example of a business-oriented hotel that gives good value at the end of the week. Alternatively, if you are looking for something more luxurious, try the centrally located 5* Roseate Reading.
Thanks to Visit Reading for arranging my exploration of the town, and to Thames Rivercruise, Whittingtons Tea Barge and The Mill at Sonning for their hospitality during my recent visit.
This article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Reading.
