Reading About Reading!

A large Berkshire town on the Thames, Reading is known for rock n roll. Every year it plays host to a huge festival of music over the August bank holiday. It is the world’s oldest popular music festival and has hosted some big stars over the years, even though it originally started as a jazz festival in the 1950’s and 60’s. Bryan Adams also spent most of the 1960’s in the town as his military father was posted there. Reading really is rocking!

Reading is close enough to London to be considered part of the commuter belt and as a result there is a lot of commercial activity here. The town hosts the headquarters of some major British companies and the offices of foreign multinationals. If starting a business here is what you are planning then why not start by looking for Reading web design businesses? For more information, visit http://www.starwebbinnovations.co.uk/

So what else is unique about Reading? Many people say that it is an unremarkable place but as it celebrates 2016 as the Reading Year of Culture, let’s take a look at what the town has to offer.

Eating and Drinking

There are hundreds of interesting places to dine in Reading and even has it’s very own Michelin-starred restaurant called L’Ortolan. In 2015 the town launched the first ever chili festival. If it’s drinking that takes your fancy, then there are some great bars too. Avoid the students hotspots and head for the Milk Bar to be wowed by some of their cocktail creations.

Museums and Heritage

There are several museums in the town, if heritage is your thing. The Reading Museum, Museum of English Rural Life and The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology can all be found here. Reading also boasts the burial place of King Henry I and has recently secured lottery funding to have Reading Abbey restored.

Reading is also home to the jail where Oscar Wilde was incarcerated for ‘homesexual practices’ in 1897. This inspired him to write ‘The Ballad of Reading Gaol’, so if you’re a literature buff you might want to see the building.

Attractions Nearby

For entertainment, Reading is within easy reach of some fantastic attractions. Legoland Windsor and Windsor Castle are close by and also animal farm parks, paintballing, forests, play centres and a falconry centre can be found in the county. There is also a huge cinema complex on the outskirts of the town.

If you love the water, then why not take a trip to see the barges. Every year there is a festival where boats are decorated and cruise along the River Kennett right through the centre of Reading. For the active visitor, why not enjoy a cycle or walk along the Thames, an easy route with lovely views.

Summary

This article introduces the Berkshire town of Reading, known for its August music festival. It covers its commuter-belt business scene, places to eat and drink, museums and heritage including Oscar Wilde’s former jail, nearby attractions such as Legoland Windsor, and the barge festival on the River Kennet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Reading famous for?

It is known for rock and roll, hosting a huge music festival every year over the August bank holiday.

What museums are in Reading?

The Reading Museum, Museum of English Rural Life and The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology.

What is there to do nearby?

Legoland Windsor, Windsor Castle, farm parks, paintballing, forests and a falconry centre are within easy reach.