A Fantastic Long Weekend in Reading, UK

Discover the charming history and culture of Reading, UK, where every corner holds a new surprise.

03 May 2023

Reading is a vibrant town in the south of England with a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. The town's famous festival scene is a must-see, with events ranging from food and drink festivals to music and literary celebrations. Visitors can also explore the town's historic landmarks, stroll along the canal, or shop at unique boutiques and markets.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Reading

  • Hotel: Malmaison Reading
  • Check into the charming Malmaison Reading hotel, located in the heart of the city centre
  • Stroll through the Forbury Gardens, a picturesque park with a Victorian bandstand and war memorial
  • Admire the architecture of St. Laurence's Church, a stunning medieval church with a history dating back to the 12th century
  • Take a tour of the Reading Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits on local history and culture
  • Indulge in delicious pub grub at The Three Guineas, a cosy pub near the train station
Day 2

A Literary Tour of Reading

  • Start the day with breakfast at Bel & The Dragon, a stylish brasserie with a book-lined wine cellar
  • Visit the former home of Jane Austen, where she lived for a brief period in 1813
  • Tour the University of Reading's Special Collections archive, which houses a treasure trove of literary manuscripts and rare books
  • Browse the shelves of the Reading Central Library, the largest library in the city with a diverse collection of books and multimedia resources
  • Relax in the Riverview Café, enjoying panoramic river views and a cup of tea
Day 3

Beyond Reading: Exploring the Countryside

  • Take a short drive to the charming village of Sonning, home to the picturesque Coppa Club and the historic Bull Inn
  • Embark on a scenic walk along the Thames Path, admiring the lush countryside and charming villages along the way
  • Visit the stunning Basildon Park, a Georgian mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland
  • Stop at the Bladebone Inn in Bucklebury for a delicious lunch in a cosy, traditional pub setting
  • End the day with dinner at L'Ortolan, a Michelin-starred restaurant in nearby Shinfield known for its exquisite French cuisine.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Reading, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Heathrow Airport and take the Heathrow Express train to Reading Station.

Car

The best way to get to Reading, United Kingdom by car is to take the M4 motorway and exit at Junction 11 for Reading.

Train

The best way to get to Reading, United Kingdom by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington Station to Reading Station.

Boat

As Reading is an inland city, there is no direct way to get there by boat. However, boat tours are available on the nearby River Thames.

Bus

The best way to get to Reading, United Kingdom by bus is to take the National Express coach service from London Victoria Coach Station to Reading Bus Station.

Destination

Reading

Reading, where you can actually judge a book by its cover - because they have some of the best bookshops. Only 20 minutes from London, Reading offers a host of great places to eat, drink and see!

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Reading's Exciting Weekend Getaway

As a tourist in Reading, you can explore the rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Reading Museum or the stunning Reading Abbey ruins. Take a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path to enjoy the scenic views or visit the beautiful University of Reading campus. Foodies can indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore the vibrant nightlife in the town center.

5 Days of Fun in Reading: Budget-Friendly Guide

Explore the rich history of Reading on a limited budget by visiting free museums and galleries, such as the Reading Museum and the Museum of English Rural Life. Walk through beautiful parks and gardens, including Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park, or take a stroll along the canal path. Satisfy your food cravings with affordable options at local markets and cafes, such as the Reading Farmers' Market or Shed Cafe.

Reading, UK on a Budget: A 3-Day Adventure

A trip to Reading, United Kingdom on a budget is possible with some planning. Budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or bed and breakfasts are available. Visitors can explore the town's history and architecture with free walking tours and admission to some museums and galleries. Delicious and inexpensive food options can be found in local cafes and markets.

Riverside Fun and Literary Delights: 3 Days in Reading, UK

A trip to Reading, United Kingdom is a perfect choice for a family-friendly adventure. This vibrant town offers a range of activities for everyone, from exploring historical landmarks such as Reading Abbey ruins to visiting the fascinating Reading Museum. Families can also enjoy the beautiful Forbury Gardens, which features a playground and picnic spots, making it an ideal destination for a memorable day out.