Reading - Discovering United Kingdom

Travelling to Reading

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Reading, a pretty good destination in United Kingdom (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Reading and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Reading, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Kingdom, here's everything to know about Reading for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Reading

Reading is a large town located in the South-East of England. It is the county town of the Royal County of Berkshire and is home to many historic landmarks and attractions. The town has a rich history dating back to the medieval period and is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning countryside, and vibrant culture. It is also a major commercial hub with many international businesses based in the area. Reading is well-connected to other major towns and cities in the UK, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

What to visit in Reading

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Reading, UK, along with some information about each: 1. Reading Abbey: Built in 1121, it is now in ruins but still attracts visitors for its history. It's a great place to take a walk and take in the old architecture and history of the location.
2. The Museum of English Rural Life: A fascinating place where you can learn about the history of farming and rural life in England. The building contains different artifacts that showcase the rural life.
3. Thames River Cruise: You can take a cruise along the Thames river and get a unique perspective of Reading. The cruise ride allows you to sit, relax and take a glimpse of the life along the shore.
4. Reading Museum: A popular place for those who love arts and history. This museum displays collections of local history and artworks.
5. Forbury Gardens: Forbury Gardens is a beautifully landscaped park located in Reading's town center. Here, you can get great views of the city, and enjoy a lovely day out.
6. Basildon Park: A magnificent and grand house that holds exquisite architecture. The house hosts many exhibitions and events.
7. Beale Park: This animal park is a fantastic and peaceful place to spend some time with nature. The park is home to exotic and native animals from all over the world.
8. Silchester Roman City Walls and Amphitheatre: The remains of the Roman walls and amphitheater here give a glimpse into the Roman history of the area.
These are some of the popular tourist attractions in Reading.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Kingdom, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Reading.

When to go on holiday to Reading

The best time to visit Reading, United Kingdom is during the months of May to September. During this time of the year, the weather in Reading is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as picnics, walks along the River Thames, and exploring historic attractions such as Reading Abbey. Additionally, this is the peak tourist season in Reading, so there are plenty of events, festivals, and cultural activities to enjoy. If you are looking for a quieter and more affordable time to visit, you may consider going during the off-peak season from October to April, but keep in mind that the weather may be colder and rainier during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Reading

Reading is a town located in the south-east of England and it is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
By Train: Reading has excellent rail links to various parts of the UK. It is served by The Great Western Railway (GWR) and South Western Railway (SWR) operating from London Paddington, London Waterloo, Heathrow airport, Gatwick airport, and various other locations. The journey time from London Paddington is approximately 25 minutes.
By Car: Reading is located on the M4 motorway, which connects London to South Wales, Bristol, Bath, and the West Country. If you’re driving from London, it will take you approximately 50 minutes to reach Reading, subject to traffic conditions.
By Bus: Reading is served by National Express and various other bus operators providing connections between Reading and other towns and cities within the UK.
By Air: Reading has excellent air links via Heathrow Airport. Trains run frequently from the airport to Reading, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Reading, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Reading

Here are some typical foods of Reading (United Kingdom) with a short description for each of them: 1. Reading pudding - A suet-based pudding made with currants and served with custard.
2. Berkshire bacon - Dry-cured and smoked bacon made from Berkshire pigs, which is known for its sweet flavor.
3. Chelsea buns - A sweet pastry made from rolled dough, currants, and a sugary glaze.
4. Simnel cake - A fruitcake typically made during Easter time, with marzipan layers and 11 marzipan balls on top representing the 11 apostles.
5. Ploughman's lunch - A classic British pub dish consisting of bread, cheese, pickle, and chutney, served with ale.
6. Thames Valley sausage - A regional sausage made with pork and herbs, typically served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy.
7. Banbury cake - A sweet pastry filled with currants and other dried fruit, mixed peel, and spices.
8. Trifle - A dessert made with layers of custard, sponge cake, fruit, and whipped cream. 9. Steak and kidney pie - A hearty pie made with beef, kidneys, and vegetables in a rich gravy, covered with a pastry crust.
10. Kedgeree - A breakfast dish of smoked haddock, boiled rice, peas, boiled eggs and curry powder, originating from British colonial India.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Kingdom here.

Is Reading an expensive destination for tourists?

Reading can be a relatively expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to some other destinations in the UK. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors, such as the time of year you visit, your travel and accommodation choices, and your activities and dining preferences. It's possible to find affordable options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment in Reading if you do your research and plan ahead. Additionally, there are many free and low-cost attractions in Reading that can help you save money during your stay.

Where to find accomodation in Reading

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Reading in the United Kingdom are the city center, Caversham, and the areas surrounding the Thames River. These areas offer easy access to major attractions, shops, restaurants, and public transportation. The city center is particularly convenient for tourists who want to explore the historic landmarks, museums, and galleries. Caversham, on the other hand, is a quiet and leafy suburb with easy access to the city center and the beautiful countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Reading here:
Booking.com

Is Reading a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Reading is generally a safe place for tourists. Crime rates in Reading are lower than the national average, and the city has well-maintained streets and public spaces. However, like in any city, it is always advisable to take precautions while travelling, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure. It is also a good idea to stay in well-lit areas at night and to avoid walking alone in secluded areas. Overall, if you take reasonable precautions, your visit to Reading should be a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Kingdom here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Reading.

What type of travelers will enjoy Reading the most?

Reading, UK can be a great destination for different types of travelers, depending on their interests and preferences. Couples may enjoy exploring the town's historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Reading Abbey ruins and the medieval church of St. Laurence. They may also appreciate the town's charming cafes and restaurants, as well as its thriving arts and culture scene.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the town's nightlife and entertainment options, including several popular clubs and bars. Reading is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Reading Festival, which attracts music fans from around the world.
Families can find plenty of things to do in Reading as well, such as visiting the town's museums and galleries, including the Museum of English Rural Life and the Reading Museum. They can also enjoy outdoor activities in the town's parks and gardens, such as Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park.
Overall, Reading offers something for everyone, whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family.

How to get around Reading

There are several options for transportation in Reading, United Kingdom. 1. Bus: Reading has an extensive bus network operated by various companies such as Reading Buses and Green Line. 2. Train: Reading is well connected to London and other parts of the country by train. The Reading train station is a major hub and is served by various operators such as Great Western Railway and South Western Railway. 3. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Reading and can be hailed on the street, called by phone, or booked through various apps such as Uber and Bolt. 4. Bike: Reading has an extensive network of bike lanes and bike-sharing programs such as Ofo and Mobike. 5. Car: There are several car rental agencies in Reading, and it is possible to hire a car to get around the town and explore the surrounding areas. However, it is worth noting that traffic and parking can be challenging in Reading.

What to see around Reading

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Reading: 1. Oxford - known as the "city of dreaming spires," Oxford has beautiful architecture and stunning university buildings to explore. 2. Bath - a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture, Bath is a lovely place to visit. 3. Stonehenge - a prehistoric stone circle that is one of the most iconic sites in England. 4. Windsor - home to Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the Queen, this historic town has a lot to offer visitors. 5. Henley-on-Thames - a charming market town, known for its riverside setting, Henley is perfect for a relaxing day out. 6. Bicester Village - a luxury shopping destination, Bicester Village has over 160 boutiques offering designer fashion and homeware at discounted prices. 7. Newbury - a historic market town, Newbury has excellent shopping, dining, and cultural activities. 8. Highclere Castle - better known as the setting for Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is a real-life historic estate. I hope this helps!
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