Reading is a large, historically significant minster town in the southern part of England. If you are considering a trip to Reading you will find a whole lot of unique and ancient culture and lots to see and do while you’re there. If you want to experience Reading like a local, see below for inspiration on where to visit.
History
Let’s start by learning about when and how Reading became the cultural and historical hub that it is today with a trip to Reading Museum. The museum is home to hundreds of significant artefacts from both at home and around the world, everything from archaeology to natural history. It has a permanent gallery along with a variety of exhibitions that change throughout the year. Reading Museum is just one of 11 hugely significant museums in the region, each giving an individual insight into Reading and its history and culture.
Traditional Food
One of the highest rated restaurants in Reading, the London Street Brasserie has not only critical acclaim but has been recognised by Michelin. The building is significant as it dates back to the 1700’s and was originally a toll-house for traffic entering Reading. The restaurant opened 18 years ago and has gone from strength to strength since then. It’s laid back, elegant décor is complemented by the huge selection of food on their menu. A personal favourite of ours is the African-spiced lamb. This menu was certainly created by a chef who loves his trade.
Parks
Although Reading is a busy, built-up area, you don’t have to go far to find an oasis of calm inside Forbury Gardens. The gardens have plenty of wide open green space, perfect for walks or lunchtime picnics in the sun. It also has a wartime sculpture called The Waiwand Lion, a bandstand, a water feature, a refreshment kiosk and public bathrooms. The park lies on the outer court of Reading Abbey – a large, ruined abbey in the centre of the town.
Festival
The event that makes Reading a household name once a year, this year’s Reading Festival begins on 24th August and is one of the UK’s premier annual music festivals. The tickets usually come as day or weekend camping tickets and the line-up is one of the best they have had in years. The festival has been happening since 1989 and shows no signs of slowing down. It is usually an exciting and fun-filled weekend for everyone involved and features some of the hottest musical stars over six stages. This year the headliners include Fall Out Boy and Kings of Leon.
Whatever you decide to do in Reading to fully immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the town, ensure your accommodation is just as impressive. We offer stylish, flexible apartments to suit all tastes and budget. To check out the year-round special offers available on our accommodation, click the ‘offers’ tab on the home page.
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