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Sightseeing in Reading - what to see. Complete travel guide

Reading Minister This is an ancient city, first mentions of which belong to the 8th century. At that time this was a small village, which was mostly developing due to the foundation of the Abbey. However, just several centuries after the foundation Reading was already one of ten largest cities of the country. In the 18th century large deposits of iron ore were discovered near the city. This fact has given rise to building of first industrial plants.
Ethnic cuisine features an amazing variety of dishes. Local restaurants offer their guests a vast choice of inimitable treats. The city offers as well several eating houses specializing in … Open
To our luck in this city have survived numerous old buildings, churches and cultural institutions. The oldest architectural places of interest of Reading are the Cathedral and Church of the Virgin Mary, which is located nearby. In the 7th century a small wooden chapel stood on the site of the church. Then a large-scale construction started here, but the architectural ensemble was completed only in the 11th century. Another important historical monument is the abbey, which was damaged severely in 1538. Nowadays visitors can see the survived parts of walls and gates, the main church and a mill during an excursion.
One more religious place of interest is located in the center of Reading. This is St. James Church, the building of which took place in 1840. Despite the fact that the church is considered relatively "young", it is no less popular among tourists comparing to old churches and temples. Continue your acquaintance with the history of the city by making an excursion to the old school opened yet in the 12th century. It is worth noting that the school works even today. This is not the only educational facility that may be interesting to visitors. In 1892 here was opened a university; nowadays this university is considered one of the most beautiful and prestigious in England. It is worth noting numerous museums of Reading. The most popular and frequently visited are Archaeological Museum and Museum of Zoology. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
In the Middle Ages the city of Reading was a significant political and religious center of the country. In the 12th century an abbey was established on its territory, and it was the most … Open
An old factory, built in the early 19th century is symbolic of the city. This factory produced famous Huntley and Palmers cookies. At the time of its foundation, it was one of the largest industrial enterprises in the city. Nowadays, you can see an old prison nearby. Oscar Wilde was serving his punishment there and thus brought it worldwide renown. It was within the walls of the prison that he wrote his letter to Lord Douglas.
Reading is often called a city of parks. There are over a hundred of them in a miniature town. Each park has its own characteristics. Leasure areas are supplemented with interesting attractions, children's playgrounds, and sports platforms. Many parks have long acquired the status of cultural centers. In summer they often hold open-air concerts and entertainment events.
1. Local shops start working at 9 am or earlier and commonly serve customers till 5-6 pm. Large shopping centers and entertaining malls located in the center of the city accept international … Open
In the center of the city is located an ancient Greyfriars church, built in the early 14th century. Initially, the church was part of a large monastery. Later, the monastery was destroyed, and the church was used for a variety of purposes. In the 16th century, it housed the town hall. After that the building was used as a hospital for the poor. A prison was opened in church, as well. Only in 1863, the church returned its religious status. Despite the complicated history, it managed to preserve a number of old interior elements. Nearby, is situated a cultural and entertainment center bearing the same name. It has a restaurant, several shops, and exhibition halls.
The building of Reading railway station is also of great historical value. From the moment of construction, it managed to preserve the luxurious front finishing. It is decorated with huge oblong windows and decorative elements. On the roof, you can see several carved towers. This railway station is considered to be one of the largest and busiest in the UK. It serves about 4 million passengers every year. Lovers of event tourism are most likely to visit Reading in the summer. At this time of the year, they hold many excellent festivals. In the first days of July, carnival is organized in the picturesque Prospekt-Park. It is followed by a series of music festivals. In August, the Water Festival is traditionally held. The program ends with the August rock festival, which is the largest in Europe
Reading - guide chapters 1 2 3 4

City tours, excursions and tickets in Reading and surroundings

Reference information
Map of all castles
Survived castles around Reading
♥   Castle 'Rotherfield Greys Castle' , 11.1 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Wallingford Castle Wallingford' Oxfordshire, 19.6 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Odiham Castle' , 21.4 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Shirburn Castle' , 22.7 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Windsor Castle Windsor' , 25.6 km from the center. On the map   Photo
Map of all parks
National and city parks around Reading
♥   Park 'Queen Elizabeth II' , 67 km from the center. On the map   Photo
Map of all art museums
Art galleries in Reading and around
♥   Art museum 'Christ Church Picture Gallery' Oxford, 38.5 km from the center. On the map   Photo

Sights around Reading from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'

Bibury Town

From the series “The Most Cozy Towns Full of Zen”
In addition, there are several wonderful bakeries. In the morning, streets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread. Another gastronomic feature of the town is its delicious homemade ice cream, which you can try at one of the local cafes. The charming English town has long attracted tourists. A romantic hotel is located in one of its most scenic areas, on the shore of the pond. Another pleasant addition to rest in Bibury is its hospitable environment. Local residents treat foreigners like dear guests. … Read further

Royal Greenwich Observatory

From the series “Breathtaking High-Altitude Observation Points with Panoramic Views on Cities”
In warmer months, a lovely recreation area is set in the garden. It would be the perfect place for hanging out for all family members. Those who want to diversify the walk in the park with amazing entertainment, will have an opportunity to visit the museum of the astronomical and navigational tools that represents a number of unique historical artifacts. A great planetarium, which will also be interesting for adults and children, is set in the observatory. … Read further

Megalithic Monuments of Stonehenge and Avebury

From the series “Top 15 Unesco Sites in Europe”
Nearby, there is another amazing megalithic complex, Avebury. Archaeologists suggest that its age is about 4 000 years. This archaeological complex also consists of a cromlech, the diameter of which is more than 350 meters. The structure is surrounded by its moat and shaft. About a hundred stone pillars are set at the perimeter. The weight of pillars is about 50 tons, which also leads modern researchers to confusion. … Read further
Car rental on OrangeSmile.com Rentals in Reading

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Sightseeing in regions nearby Reading

All about Reading, Great Britain - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Reading, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Reading in few days.
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