
In Reading's Victorian Town Hall, the museum explores the history of the area, from the Roman city at nearby Silchester through mediaeval Reading and its Abbey to the coming of the railways and Reading's 3Bs (Biscuits, Beer & Bulbs) economy. The museum also displays a full size reconstruction of the Bayeux Tapestry, made by the Leek Embroidery Society in the late 19th century. Open Tuesday to Friday: 10am - 4pm, Saturday: 10am - 5pm Closed: Sundays, Bank Holidays. Closed: Mondays (except during Berkshire February and October school half-terms). Closed: Easter Bank Holiday weekend (including Good Friday), and from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day.
Reading Museum is a museum of the history of the town of Reading, in the English county of Berkshire, and the surrounding area. It is accommodated within Reading Town Hall, and contains galleries describing the history of Reading and its related industries, a gallery of artefacts discovered during the excavations of Calleva Atrebatum, a copy of the Bayeux Tapestry, finds relating to Reading Abbey and an art collection.
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These beautiful formal gardens were once part of Reading Abbey, and the ruins of the Abbey can be found between the park and the river Kennet. The Abbey's founder and benefactor was Henry I and he was buried in front of the high altar in 1136. The Abbey went on to become one of the most important religious and political centres in England. A few of the Abbey's buildings still exist intact, including St Laurence's Church and the Gateway, and the ruins themselves offer a fascinating glimpse of the abbey. Open during daylight hours. Free. The gardens were restored to their former glory and reopened in Spring 2005. The Abbey Ruins were re-opened in June 2018 following a £3 million Heritage Lottery Fund project, Reading Abbey Revealed.
Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin
A historic church from 11th century.
Day trips from Reading to Henley-on-Thames and return with 3 hours ashore in Henley (or you can return by train). Also less frequent trips from Wallingford to Reading. Depart from outside the Riverside Restaurant just downstream of Caversham Bridge.
A museum about the history of food, farming and the countryside in England. It has several galleries showing how the countryside is shaped by nature and human activities. There is also a garden and a cafe.
Run cruises to Mapledurham House & Watermill (see the 'See' section) at 2PM on Sa Su & public holidays from April through September; and shorter trips during the same days. Depart Thameside Promenade just upstream of Caversham Bridge.
This circuit is expertly crafted for adrenaline and excitement. With two levels, a dramatic flyover, tight technical sections, and fast straights, the layout encourages competitive racing and rewards confident driving. The electric karts offer instant acceleration, sharp handling, and zero emissions, making every lap smooth and satisfying.