Reading may be known worldwide for its famous music festival, but the town offers far more than live music.
Set along the River Thames in Berkshire, it combines centuries of history with a thriving cultural and shopping scene. Its abbey ruins date back to the 12th century, while modern attractions include a buzzing restaurant quarter and excellent shopping at The Oracle.
With its riverside setting, Reading makes a fantastic base for exploring the Thames Valley, Henley-on-Thames, and the rolling Berkshire countryside. Whether you’re here for a weekend break, a cultural fix, or as a stopover en route to London, it delivers a surprising mix of relaxation and energy.
Start with Reading Abbey, once one of the most important monasteries in England, then wander over to the Museum of English Rural Life for a unique glimpse into the region’s heritage. Art lovers can explore Reading Museum, home to a full-scale replica of the Bayeux Tapestry.
Take time to stroll along the Thames Path, enjoy a boat trip, or head out to nearby Windsor, Henley, or Highclere Castle (famous as Downton Abbey). For shopping, The Oracle and Broad Street offer plenty of choice, while the town’s bars, cafes, and riverside restaurants create a lively evening atmosphere.
Reading has a temperate climate, with mild summers and cool winters. July and August are the warmest months, with average highs around 22°C - perfect for outdoor walks and riverside picnics.
Winters are generally mild, with temperatures hovering between 2–8°C, though frosty mornings are common. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, so it’s always worth packing an umbrella. Spring and early autumn bring pleasant weather, ideal for exploring both town and countryside.
