Reading, UK: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Discovering the charm of Reading without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visit the Museum of English Rural Life to experience the agricultural history of England for free or take a stroll through Forbury Gardens, a Victorian park in the centre of town. Stay at the Ibis Styles Reading Oxford Road, an affordable and stylish hotel with convenient transportation links to the city centre. Stop by the Reading Market for some delicious and budget-friendly local food.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Reading on a Shoestring Budget

  • Start with a walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, enjoy the sights of narrowboats and swans.
  • Visit the Reading Museum and Art Gallery, which is free to enter and explore. Learn about the town's history, including its Roman past.
  • Head to the Forbury Gardens for a picnic lunch, and listen to live music or watch street performers in the summer months.
  • Check out the Reading Abbey Ruins, which date back to the 12th century, and imagine what life was like during that era.
  • Have dinner at the Afghan restaurant, Clay's Hyderabadi Kitchen, where you can enjoy delicious spicy dishes, served with plenty of rice.
  • Finish the day with a pint of local ale at The Nag's Head, a traditional pub that has been serving the town since 1775.
  • Note: If time permits, be sure to take a stroll around the town's shops, as there are plenty of boutiques and thrift stores to explore.

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!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

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.

Escape to Romance: 2-Day Trip to Reading, UK

Reading, UK is a charming and historical town that provides an ideal destination for a romantic trip. From strolling along the River Thames to exploring the town's medieval ruins, couples can enjoy a range of activities together. With ancient castles, cozy pubs, and top-notch restaurants, Reading offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights for any couple's romantic getaway.

Magical Moments: A 2-Day Family Adventure in Reading!

A trip to Reading, United Kingdom offers a fantastic family-friendly experience. Explore the historic landmarks like the beautiful Reading Abbey Ruins and the stunning Forbury Gardens. Enjoy a day of fun at Beale Park, featuring a zoo, gardens, and a miniature train ride, or visit the Reading Museum for an interactive learning experience for kids of all ages.