Out & About in Reading

Reading is a multi-cultural centre for business, arts, entertainment and sport. With more than 144,000 residents from many communities, the town of Reading (one of the biggest in England) is a popular place to live and visit Home to Reading University and Thames Valley University, Reading is a thriving centre of learning. The famous Majeski stadium and the move to the premier football league for Reading has certainly put this city on the map for sports. Thames Valley Business Park is also home to some famous Head Offices -both Oracle and Microsoft are both based here.

Shopping

The 'Oracle' in Reading offers a huge variety of shops within just a short walk. With this centrally located large indoor shopping centre Reading shoppers know exactly where to begin a spending spree. With a mix of high street brand names, large department stores and smaller boutiques, the centre also offers a number of stalls, restaurants & cafés. Around the 'Oracle' which is found on the high street there are smaller shopping centres such as the 'Broad Street Mall' and other shops situated on the surrounding streets. On the other side of the 'Oracle' is the Kennet & Avon Canal which runs through the city centre. There is parking by the Oracle providing convenient access to the shopping centres, high street shops and water. The 'Broad Street Mall' shopping centre and Butter-market is just a short walk away from the Oracle which houses a large Boots store. Nearby is the town's main Post Office as well as the banks. Just two streets past the Post Office is the train station. The town's main bus station is right outside along with a large taxi rank.

Food and Drink

Whether you're booking a romantic dinner for two, a meal out with children or a larger celebration, there are many options all over Reading. You'll find well known global brands as well as a host of other new exciting restaurants on the menu. Chinese is a particular favourite in and around Reading alongside Indian, Italian, American, Mexican and Thai. Reading's bars and pubs have something for everyone - whether you're in your early twenties or old enough to know better! There are traditional country style public houses with beer gardens on the outskirts of town to meet for a relaxing drink such as The George, or new funky bars in town such as the Ivory Lounge where you can party the night away and all kinds in between. If you are looking for something with some history and tradition you can also visit Great Expectations hotel and public house in town. Close by is the Risc cafe which specialises in world food, vegetarian and vegan specialities.

Arts & Entertainment

Art and Culture is at the very heart of what makes Reading the place it is today - a town with a rich medieval heritage, but with a modern vibrancy enriched by its commerce and diverse community. Reading hosts a rich variety of arts events and activities including one of the largest music festivals in Britain, although there is much to celebrate all year round. Hexagon Theatre - The largest is the Hexagon Theatre,so called because of its shape. It has the seating capacity of 1200 and is a popular venue all year round. With a packed schedule the Hexagon Theatre attracts stars including The Saturdays, Jimmy Carr and family favourite, Scooby Doo. South Street- a smaller venue but still offers great entertainment including comedy stand up acts such as Lucy Porter and Lenny Henry as well as more low key community events or amateur film and drama. Town Hall and Concert Hall- these venues also have something to offer such as classical music concerts as well as famous acts such as Jo Brand and Newton Faulkner. These sell out pretty quickly though so book well in advance.

Hotels and Travel

Whether you're staying in Reading for business or pleasure you'll find a warm welcome. There are large conference venues at the Crowne Plaza and the Forbury for example, there is also the sleek and stylish new Madjeski hotel, and beautiful country house retreats. Getting in and around the town centre is easy. If you're thinking of the environment, the park and ride offers great value for money. And if you're collecting heavy shopping you'll be pleased to discover plenty of places to park. Reading's Train Station is a 2 minute walk from the town centre, with quick access via buses to the football ground and shuttle to Gatwick. The station has a modern, secure multi-storey car park, with parking available for disabled users.