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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

📍Address: The Forbury, Reading RG1 3EJ, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. St Laurence's Church was one of the three original parish churches, along with St Mary's and St Giles, serving the medieval borough of Reading. It was built to serve the people of the eastern part of the town. The church dates from the Norman period but underwent major rebuildings in the 15th century. The building is of flint with ashlar quuis. The principal feature of the church is a three-stage tower. Today, it services as a mission church with a mandate to encourage faith amongst young people. St Laurence's Church certainly offers a wonderful experience for visitors. #stlaurenceschurch #reading

Address: Church Rd, Caversham, Reading RG4 7AG Atmosphere & Attractions: Hidden riverside gardens with huge old trees, picnic spots, benches by the Thames — peaceful space to relax while kids play, a lot of activities which is so friendly and great atmosphere. Highlight: Coffee in the garden while the kids ran under ancient trees, great place for family and group gatherings. Entrance Fee: Free of charge Rating: 5/5 #familytrip

Address: Reading Town Hall, Blagrave St, Reading RG1 1QH Entrance Fee: Free Atmosphere: Indoor history + beautiful park right next door. We spent the morning at Reading Museum — the kids loved spotting local treasures and seeing the amazing Bayeux Tapestry replica. It’s just the right size for curious kids. Afterwards, we walked straight into Forbury Gardens, where they ran around the flower beds and we relaxed by the famous lion statue. Perfect mix of culture and play in the heart of town. Highlight: Free museum, lovely gardens, and plenty of space for a picnic or snack break. #outdooradventure #familytrip

Address: Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7TP, United Kingdom. Atmosphere & Attractions: Scenic riverside walk, boats drifting by, ducks to spot, quiet picnic spots near the lock, and peaceful nature all around, family friendly environment. Highlight: Family picnic by the water while watching boats and swans drift past. Entrance Fee: Free Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #familytrip #outdooradventure

Address: 6 Redlands Rd, Reading RG1 5EX Atmosphere & Attractions: Quirky, hands-on museum with vintage tractors, old tools, farm life displays, and a pretty garden café — great for kids and curious grown-ups with group friendly environment. Highlight: Kids loved the interactive gallery and old machinery. Entrance Fee: Free Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #familytrip

Address: Christchurch Road, Berkshire, Reading RG2 7AR, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Christ Church is a welcome church, serving a diverse community and worshipping in a liberal Catholic tradition. The beautiful Victorian Gothic church is a major landmark in the south at Reading of Berkshire, England. The church was built in 1862 by the architect Henry Woodyer. It is an excellent historic building, well maintained and beautifully maintained both inside and outside, with a peaceful atmosphere, definitely worth a visit. #christchurch #history #reading

Address: George Street, Caversham, Reading RG4 8BY, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Christchurch Meadows is a public park in Reading, England, located next to the River Thames. It is a lovely place to have a family outing on a sunny weekend. It has beautiful scenery in summer, with hundreds of ducks, geese, and swan playing on that river bank, and the large lawn area is popular for sunbathing or picnicking or walking. It is animal friendly. Christchurch Meadows is a truly beautiful natural haven with something for everyone. It is always a pleasure to see so many friendly visitors. Whether you are here for a leisurely stroll or just to enjoy the beauty of nature, Christchurch Meadows will not disappoint! #christchurchmeadows #naturalscenery #reading

Address: Liebenrood Road, Reading RG30 2ND, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Prospect Park is a public park in the western outskirts of Reading, England. The park has a playground for children and a large open space for picnic. The peaceful atmosphere of the park makes it ideal for leisurely strolls and taking in the natural beauty, with plenty of shade trees, although it can get quite crowded on weekends. Whether you are a nature lover or just looking for a quiet retreat, Prospect Park will not disappoint you! #prospectpark #naturalscenery #reading

Address: Church Road, Reading RG4 7AD, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Caversham Court is a beautiful walled garden with terraced lawns leading down to the River Thames. There are many mature trees to admire and flowers in full bloom. Caversham Court is a delightful gem that combines history, natural beauty, and tranquillity. This riverside Oasis is a have from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or learn about the history of the area. The park is listed as Grade II in the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. Overall, it is a delightful place for families and individuals alike. #cavershamcourt #history #reading

Address: Campus, Harris Garden UoR, Reading RG6 6LA, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Harris Garden is a beautiful and peaceful place with lots of trees and plants. lovely area for walking and picnicking. It is a true gem. located in the University of Reading, England. It is a beautiful landscaping and historic charm, making it an ideal place to relax walking and fresh air, especially in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom. It's definitely worth a visit. #harrisgarden #reading

#thingstodo #museums #resorts #familytravel

Did a little day trip to Reading and honestly, pleasantly surprised! First stop was Reading Abbey Ruins — super peaceful with all the old stone walls and arches tucked right in the middle of town. Can’t believe this place is nearly 900 years old… Henry I is buried here (bit of medieval trivia for the day 😅). After that, popped into the Reading Museum — small but packed with cool stuff! Loved the Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry (full-length version) — didn’t expect to see that here of all places. Overall, cute town, easy to explore, loads of history hiding behind the shopping streets. Worth a half-day visit if you’re nearby! #travel #reading #staycation #trip

Location: Napier Road, King’s Meadow, Reading RG1 8FR, United Kingdom I spent a calm afternoon at Thames Lido, just a short walk from Reading town centre. This restored Edwardian bathhouse has been transformed into a peaceful retreat, with a heated outdoor pool, spa, and stylish restaurant. I booked a swim and lunch package, which turned out to be the perfect combination. The pool is surrounded by old red-brick walls, giving it a secluded, Mediterranean feel. After a dip, I enjoyed a light meal in their glass-fronted dining area, where the sun poured in and everything felt unrushed. It’s a great spot to slow down and treat yourself, especially if you want something a little different in Reading.

Location: Church Road, Caversham, Reading RG4 7AD, United Kingdom On a sunny afternoon, I crossed Caversham Bridge and wandered into Caversham Court Gardens, a charming walled garden beside the Thames. The moment I stepped through the gate, it felt like an escape from town life—terraced lawns sloping down to the river, mature trees, and a calming hush. I strolled along stone paths lined with lavender banks and flower borders, pausing to admire ancient yews and a 17th‑century gazebo that overlooks the water. Thoughtfully placed benches and a small tea kiosk run by volunteers added to the relaxed, friendly vibe . What I loved most was the blend of history and community. Hidden plaques marked the footprint of the old mansion, and a timeline traced the site’s transformation from medieval rectory to Georgian villa—culminating in its rebirth as a public garden in the 1930s . The gardens hold regular events—summer theatre, cinema nights, and guided walks led by the Friends group—though even without special happenings, the space feels special. It’s no wonder Caversham Court has earned Green Flag and Green Heritage awards for its upkeep and character

Location: Redlands Road, Reading RG1 5EX, United Kingdom Tucked away near the University of Reading, the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) surprised me with how warm and engaging it was. It’s all about the history of farming and countryside life in England — from vintage tools and tractors to stories from real people who lived it. The space is modern, peaceful, and full of little details that bring rural history to life. I especially enjoyed the old diaries and quirky farm inventions. It’s free to visit, and you can easily spend an hour or two soaking in the quiet charm. If you’re looking for something different in Reading, MERL is a lovely and unexpected stop.

Location: Blagrave Street, Reading RG1 1QH, United Kingdom While exploring the town centre, I decided to step into Reading Museum, and I’m so glad I did. It’s inside the beautiful old Town Hall building, just a short walk from the train station and Forbury Gardens. The museum is small but full of character. I wasn’t expecting to spend much time there, but I ended up staying longer than planned. One of the most impressive things was the full-size replica of the Bayeux Tapestry—it stretches across an entire room and tells the story of the Norman Conquest in incredible detail. There were also local history exhibits, Victorian artefacts, and even some art from the Reading area. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the town’s roots and culture. The staff were friendly too, and it’s free to enter, which is always a bonus. If you’re visiting Reading and have an hour to spare, this museum is a great way to connect with the town’s story.

Location: Forbury Road, Reading RG1 3HW, United Kingdom Right in the heart of Reading, I found a perfect little escape—Forbury Gardens. After walking through the town centre, it was so refreshing to step into this beautifully kept Victorian park. The moment I entered, the sound of traffic faded, replaced by birdsong and the splash of a central fountain. I took my time strolling past flower beds and under shady trees. Locals were sitting on benches with coffee, reading books, or just enjoying the calm. The highlight, of course, is the Maiwand Lion, a huge stone statue that quietly watches over the garden. It’s impressive up close, especially with the abbey ruins just behind it. What I liked most was the peaceful atmosphere—it felt like a spot where time slows down for a while. Whether you’re passing through or need a quiet moment in the day, Forbury Gardens is well worth a visit.