Things to do in Reading, Berkshire
- Reading is historically significant for the 'Reading Gaol', where Oscar Wilde was imprisoned and subsequently wrote 'The Ballad of Reading Gaol'.
- The town's name derives from the Readingas, a Saxon tribe that settled here during the 6th century.
- Reading is known as one of the UK's largest towns that does not have city status, despite its substantial population and economic influence.
- The city has served as a pivotal location in English history, including the 1688 'Reading Skirmish' during the Glorious Revolution.
- Reading hosts one of the longest-running and most famous music festivals in the UK, established in the early 1970s.
About Reading, Berkshire
Located at the confluence of the River Thames and River Kennet, Reading serves as a major commercial hub in Berkshire. The city is defined by its deep medieval roots, evidenced by the 12th-century Reading Abbey Ruins, which stand in contrast to its modern status as a high-tech corporate center. Visitors can explore local history at the Reading Museum or retreat to expansive green spaces like Prospect Park. The city also hosts diverse cultural landmarks, including the St James Roman Catholic Church and the various community-focused temples like the Reading Hindu Temple.
Highlights of Reading, Berkshire
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Walk through the medieval flint walls of the 12th-century abbey founded by King Henry I.
Museums
Examine the Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry housed within the museum.
Parks
Access seven lakes and varied wildlife habitats across this 400-acre parkland.
Parks
Enjoy panoramic views over the Kennet Valley from one of the town's oldest public parks.
Parks
Visit this university botanical garden to see a diverse collection of trees and shrubs.
Temples
Observe the distinctive Gothic Revival architecture of this historic Catholic church.
Top things to do in Reading, Berkshire
The 221 highest-rated places in Reading, Berkshire, ranked by travellers.
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Parks
Dinton Pastures Country Park spans 335 acres of land featuring seven lakes, the River Loddon, and diverse meadows. The p...
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The Vyne is a 16th-century Tudor mansion built by Lord Sandys, Lord Chamberlain to Henry VIII. The estate features an ex...
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Reading, Berkshire on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Reading, Berkshire
May to September, when the riverside paths and public parks like Dinton Pastures are most accessible for outdoor recreation.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to explore the historic core and the surrounding green spaces.
The city center is highly walkable, with an extensive local bus network and frequent train connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Stay in the town center for immediate proximity to transit links and shopping, or choose the areas surrounding the University of Reading for a quieter atmosphere.
Mid-range; while competitive with London prices, it offers a wider variety of accommodation and dining options at different price points.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 221 curated attractions in and around Reading, Berkshire, ranked by traveller ratings.
Dinton Pastures Country Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Reading, Berkshire right now.
The largest category is temples, with 136 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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