England · City Guide
Reading
Reading is a prosperous Thames Valley town with excellent transport connections to London, Oxford and the west, a thriving technology and business sector and outstanding access to the beautiful countryside of the Thames Valley, the Chiltern Hills and the North Wessex Downs. The annual Reading Festival is one of England's most celebrated music events and the town's proximity to Windsor, Henley and the Berkshire countryside makes it an outstanding base for exploring the wider region.
Elect's take
"Reading punches above its weight as a destination. The surrounding Thames Valley and Chiltern countryside is beautiful, the connections to Oxford, Windsor and London are excellent and the hotel quality for a business destination is very good."
The Thames Valley around Reading provides beautiful river walking and cycling from the town centre. Caversham provides an attractive residential suburb with views across the river. The Oracle shopping centre and Broad Street provide excellent retail options. The annual Reading Festival at the end of August is one of England's most celebrated music events. Windsor Castle is approximately 25 minutes by rail. Oxford is approximately 30 minutes. The North Wessex Downs and the Chiltern Hills provide outstanding countryside walking accessible by car.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Reading Festival
One of England's most celebrated annual music festivals held each August.
Thames Valley
Beautiful river walks and cycling routes along one of England's most scenic stretches.
Windsor Access
Windsor Castle and Great Park approximately 25 minutes by rail.
The Oracle
An excellent riverside shopping and leisure centre in the heart of the town.
Reading Abbey
Medieval abbey ruins founded in 1121, recently restored and reopened to the public.
Oxford Access
Oxford's colleges and museums approximately 30 minutes away by direct rail.
