Reading, United Kingdom, is a historic city located in the Thames Valley in the South East of England. It is a vibrant and diverse city that is well-connected with a strong transport network including the nearby Reading railway station. Its central location makes it an ideal destination for visitors who want to explore the wider region of southern England.
Reading is a great place to visit for its history, culture, and attractions. It has a rich heritage dating back to the Roman era, and is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, including the ruins of Reading Abbey, the 12th-century church of St. Laurence, and the Grade I listed Forbury Gardens.
The city is also renowned for its shopping and entertainment. Reading has a thriving arts scene, with a range of galleries, theatres, and live music venues. The Oracle Shopping Centre is a popular place to shop, while The Hexagon is a great venue to catch a show.
Reading also has a wealth of green spaces and parks for visitors to enjoy. These include the River Thames, which runs through the city, as well as Prospect Park and the lakes in Caversham. The nearby countryside is also worth exploring, with the Chiltern Hills and the Cotswolds both close by.
Reading is an ideal destination for a short break or a longer stay, as there is plenty to see and do in the city and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for heritage, culture, shopping, or outdoor activities, Reading is sure to have something to offer.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Caversham: Located in the north of Reading, Caversham is a charming riverside suburb, popular with young professionals, families and retirees. It has a good selection of pubs, restaurants and shops, as well as a weekly market and a lovely riverside park.
2. Earley: Located to the southeast of Reading, Earley is a suburban area popular for its green spaces and easy access to Reading city centre. It offers a variety of amenities, including shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs and a leisure centre.
3. Tilehurst: Situated to the west of Reading, Tilehurst is a suburban residential area known for its leafy streets and village atmosphere. It has a variety of amenities, including local shops, pubs and restaurants.
4. Katesgrove: Located to the south of Reading, Katesgrove is a diverse area with a good selection of shops, pubs, restaurants and cafes. It also offers easy access to Reading town centre.
5. Whitley: Located in the north of Reading, Whitley is a popular area for young families and professionals. It has a range of amenities, including a leisure centre, local shops, pubs and restaurants.
1. Reading Abbey - This historic building is located in the centre of Reading and dates back to 1121. It was once one of the most powerful monastic houses in England and is now a Grade I listed building with an impressive collection of ruins.
2. The Oracle Shopping Centre - The Oracle Shopping Centre is a popular destination for shoppers in Reading, offering an abundance of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
3. Forbury Gardens - Forbury Gardens is a large public park located in the centre of Reading. It has a bandstand, formal gardens, play areas and plenty of open space for visitors to relax and enjoy.
4. The Museum of Reading - The Museum of Reading is located in the former Reading Prison, and includes a variety of interactive exhibitions and activities. It is home to a variety of artefacts and displays exploring the history of Reading.
5. Basildon Park - Basildon Park is a National Trust property located just outside of Reading. It is a Grade II listed house set within 500 acres of parkland, and includes a variety of gardens, walks and attractions.
1. Bangers and Mash: A classic British dish, this consists of mashed potatoes and sausages cooked in gravy.
2. Fish and Chips: A staple in the UK, this dish is usually served with a side of thick-cut chips and malt vinegar.
3. Pub Grub: An excellent way to sample a variety of British dishes, pub grub is often served in a casual setting with a variety of items such as bangers and mash, fish and chips, pies, and more.
4. Pies: There are many varieties of pies, from the classic steak and ale to the more adventurous lamb and apricot.
5. Afternoon Tea: A British tradition, afternoon tea is a great way to relax in the afternoon. It usually consists of a pot of tea, sandwiches, cakes, and scones with clotted cream and jam.