Best Things To Do in Reading, United Kingdom

Are you looking for what to do in Reading?

THINGS TO DO AND SEE: Culturally and historically significant sights and tours are plenty in Reading.

  • Forbury Gardens: These beautiful formal gardens were once part of Reading Abbey and were restored to their former glory in 2005.
  • Museum of Reading: Situated in Reading's Victorian Town Hall, the museum explores the entire history of the area.
  • Silchester Roman Town: Known to the Romans as ‘CallevaAtrebatum’, Silchester was abandoned after the Roman era. Take the train to Bramley and follow the Silchester trail.
  • Salters Steamers: Day trips from Reading to Henley-on-Thames are organised- a good way to get pretty river views.
  • Broad Street: An iconic shopping street in Reading, enjoy the various shops and restaurants. Stop by the old United Reformed Church.

Below we have a list of things to do in Reading and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Reading getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Reading with confidence.

Tourist Attractions in Reading

Here is the list of things to do in Reading and tourist attractions in city.

  1. Beale Park

    Outdoors, Wildlife Sanctuary , Garden, Park

    This is a huge wildlife park situated by the River Thames. The park has been divided into different sections- the exotic animals section, the farm animals and birds section and the landscaped garden section. There is also ample space in the children’s area for the kids to run around and play. This place is also called “The Peacock Farm”. This is because a lot of beautiful peac...Read more
  2. Basildon Park

    4.5 (686 Votes)
    Basildon Park

    Park, Historical Site, Restaurant, Leisure

    Perhaps one of the finest examples of a Gregorian mansion surrounded by a lush green parkland, Basildon Park is located near lower Basildon. Although its history before 17th century is scantily recorded the manor was very much present form 13th century. Its construction was never fully completed as there some minor renovations being done continuously when it was passed on to different owners. W...Read more
  3. Wellington Country Park

    4.5 (202 Votes)
    Wellington Country Park

    Outdoors, Trail, Waterfront, Park

    This is the biggest outdoor play area in Berkshire. This place place is popular for its campsites and jungle trails. The park covers a huge area of 350 acres. It surrounds a 35 acre lake. There are numerous activities for the children to be engaged in. For the adults, there is both adventure and tranquillity as you go deeper into the woods. On your stroll through the jungle, you might spot a re...Read more
  4. Mapledurham House

    4.4 (32 Votes)
    Mapledurham House

    Landmark, Architecture , Heritage Building

    This is a huge manor. It is located on the north bank of River Thames. According to the tradition of the time when it was built, the manor is E-Shaped. While the Exteriors are Elizabethan, the interiors are Victorian and Georgian. The house used to belong to the Blount Family. The house offers a glimpse into the past. Through its preserved treasures, artefacts and other belongings, informs the ...Read more
  5. Delta Force Paintball Reading

    Outdoors, Paint Ball, Entertainment

    If you are looking for an actions packed day with family and friends then Delta force paintball is the right place for you. With safe equipment and a lot of hard hitting paintballs the place is a lot of fun. They have separate itinerary for juniors and adults. The prices you pay is inclusive of kits that you get. Even the scenario offered is a real jungle which just adds to the adrenaline of a ...Read more
  6. Silchester

    Church, Geological Formation, Village, Educational Site

    Silchester is a small village in Hampshire. It is 9 miles to the south west of Reading. The village is most popular for its archaeological site of the ancient Roman Town of Calleva Atrebatum. The site covers an area of 107 acres. Roman ruins can be found by the parish church that was possibly built on the site of an ancient roman temple. This church of Mary dates back to the 12th century. Enthu...Read more
  7. The Oracle

    4.3 (506 Votes)
    The Oracle

    Mall, Shopping Center, Specialty Shop

    The Oracle is one of the most famous shopping malls in Reading. Built on the previous site of the 17th century Oracle warehouse the current mall is a perfect shopping destination with family and friends. From clothing to fashion accessories to home appliances to food joints, gaming arenas and 11 cinema screens The Oracle has it all. The riverside area has a lot of restaurants and bars the overl...Read more
  8. Lockey Farm

    4.2 (87 Votes)
    Lockey Farm

    Golf Course, Leisure, Farm

    A little south of Reading, in Arborfield Berkshire, is an exciting little farm by the name of Lockey Farm. It is a popular destination for adults and kids looking to spend a day in close proximity with wildlife and nature. Run for over 15 years by the Adams family, they pride themselves in giving everyone a chance to experience the farm living. You can come here and view and feed the animals wi...Read more
  9. Caversham Court Gardens

    4.6 (352 Votes)
    Caversham Court Gardens

    Outdoors, Garden, Leisure, Picnic Spot

    These beautiful gardens were laid out around the mansion by Thomas Loveday during the 1670s and was actually a private retreat. Later in the 20th century the house was demolished but the gardens remained. They cover an area of about 1.3 hectares and are adorned with great tree specimens such as Pine, cedars, Wellingtonia and black mulberry. There’s also a tea kiosk run by local charities....Read more
  10. Reading Abbey Ruins

    Ancient Ruin, Historical Site

    The abbey which was once a magnificent structure was built somewhere in 1121 and was founded by Henry I. Over the course of years it was passed on to subsequent kings and later after the dissolution it degenerated into ruins. Now all that’s left are remnants of the once amazing structure. After some restoration work the ruins today stand strong. The gateway and the arches still show the R...Read more
  11. Blagrave Arms

    Bar, Food And Drinks, Pubs, Entertainment

    Quite a popular pub reading not just for its good food and reasonable drinks but also for its proximity to the station. There’s a bar station as well as a family section along with pool tables and fuzz ball. The ambience is great and the karaoke simply adds to it. All in all a great place to fun with family and friends.
  12. Mix Cocktail Bar

    4.2 (102 Votes)
    Mix Cocktail Bar

    Bar, Entertainment, Leisure, Games

    The best cocktail bar in Reading what separates Mix Cocktail Bar from others are the master classes that they offer to learn how to create the perfect cocktail. You can also have your own custom made cocktail delivered to you on your table. The ambience is very flashy and modern which perfect for a party out with friends. They play a lot of fun games like the Mix and the Triangle which can be a...Read more
  13. Prince Of Wales Pub

    4 (124 Votes)
    Prince Of Wales Pub

    Food And Drinks, Pubs, Entertainment, Leisure

    One of the best pubs in reading where they offer great food, great beer and great ambience. The pub has a very festive atmosphere with light all around and good music. In addition to great food they have their own variety of ales like ‘O Be Joyful’, ‘Hook Norton Mild’, ‘The Usual Bitter’ are to name a few. All the items are well priced and some of them come h...Read more
  14. Invest In Art Image
    ©
    The Invest in Art museum in Reading, United Kingdom was founded in 2006 by the Reading Borough Council. The museum was established to promote the appreciation of art and to provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work. The museum also serves as a cultural hub for the local community, offering a range of educational activities and events. The museum is open to the public and admis...Read more
  15. Any-fin Aquatics Image
    ©
    Any-fin Aquatics, located in Reading, United Kingdom, was started in 1995 by a group of local fish enthusiasts. The founders of the zoo were passionate about marine life and wanted to create a space where people could learn about and appreciate aquatic animals.The idea for the zoo came about when the founders noticed a lack of educational and interactive experiences for people to learn about ma...Read more