Reading Area Guide | Things to do in Reading City Centre

The vibrant town of Reading offers a perfect mix of historical charm, modern attractions, and a very lively student scene. With impeccable transport links around and out of the town, you won’t find yourself having to walk no matter where you’d like to go! What’s more, with such great shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, you’ll never be without something to do. Read on to find out our top picks in this Reading Area Guide…

Reading Area Guide | Living in Reading

Reading has an extensive history, dating back to the Roman Era – in fact you can explore yourself with the various historical sights scattered around! Throughout English history, Reading has been particularly significant, and that significance remains today as it stands as a hub for commercial activity.

Reading is home to the University of Reading, renowned for its sustainability, scientific research and educational programs. The town itself is designed with University students in mind, and you will feel right at home walking through town any day.

Despite being a busy town, Reading does not lack in green spaces! From the university to town, the environment is a top priority, and you will rarely be more than a 10 minute walk from a quaint little park or expansive nature reserve. If you ever want a walk through nature, you will be spoilt for choice living here.

Reading is considered to be quite a safe place to live on the whole! But it is still important to be wary when getting around on your own at late hours and to stay particularly vigilant during busy weekends.

Welcome to Reading

Reading is a large town on the Thames and Kennet rivers in southern England. It’s known for the annual Reading Festival, an outdoor rock music event.

The Oracle Shopping Centre

For the perfect combination of shopping, dining and entertainment, head to the Oracle! It has over 80 shops, including from Zara and H&M to regular vintage pop-ups full of the best retro clothes at affordable prices. And once you’re done shopping, you could grab something to eat alongside the scenic canal, the perfect spot to relax – especially in summer!

Reading Abbey Ruins

For all the history lovers, these impressive Ruins date back to 1121 and are located in the heart of town! Hard to pass up the chance to see what was once one of Europe’s largest medieval monasteries!

Forbury Gardens

Only a short walk from the Reading Abbey Ruins lies the scenic park of Forbury Gardens. Decorated with fountains and statues, this Victorian park is the perfect place to relax, have a picnic with friends, or to take a picturesque walk.

Nightlife

Reading wouldn’t be a Uni town without some sort of nightlife! With various nightclubs, cocktail bars, and pubs all dotted around the centre of town, you won’t be short of a good night out. Friar Street alone features 4 different clubs, and even more bars and pubs! With student prices in mind, you can almost always find affordable, student nights out throughout the week. What’s more, you could go for some boozy darts and bowling at the popular Spinners if clubbing isn’t your vibe.

Speaking of not going out-out, Reading has plenty of alternative options for entertainment! With a large cinema, escape rooms, and even Go Karting, there are plenty of options when it comes to fun things to do!

The best spots in Reading for

Food

Coconut Bar and Kitchen

Serious cocktails and Asian dishes are served at this bustling nightspot.

Drinks

Friar Street

Friar street alone features 4 different clubs, and even more bars and pubs! With student prices in mind, you can almost always find affordable, student nights out throughout the week.

For more information about properties to rent in Reading, check out our Reading City Centre Neighbourhood Guide.

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