Student recommendations for every season!
Our Student Local Guides have put together a calendar of activities to help you find things to do in Reading and the local area throughout the year.
For even more recommendations of places to visit in Reading and the local area, check out our local area google map.
Calendar of events:
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Why not get the train to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew and check out the beautiful autumn trees, or pretend it’s still summer in the tropical glasshouses! Student tickets are £10 if purchased online in advance. The train is 1 hour to Richmond, and then the entrance to Kew Gardens is a 18 minute walk away. Top tip: to save some money on your day out, we recommend taking packed lunch, unless you fancy treating yourself to a scone in the cafe! |
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Reading Winter Wonderland offers a large undercover ice rink, mulled wine and festive food and a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. |
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The town centre offers Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere with stalls offering crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats. The Christmas lights switch-on event features live music and entertainment, marking the start of the holiday season. You can take a stroll around Broad Street and surrounding areas and Reading Town Centre to discover the festive cheer. The markets are open mid-November through December, opening times vary by stall; typically during shopping hours. Check out local event listings such as What's On Reading for the date of the Christmas light switch on each year. |
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Cheese Feast - Cheesy food and cheesy tunes.. what’s not to love! Usually at Blue Collar in April, this free entry cheese festival is not one to be missed. Blue Collar Corner is a outdoor food and drink arena open all year round and located on Hosier Street, Reading, RG1 7QL. Just a 10 minute walk from Reading Station. |
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Reading Half Marathon - one for if you're feeling sporty, but even if not this is a lovely day to cheer on friends and colleagues! |
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Reading Climate Festival - Two weeks of events to inspire a climate friendly Reading, including talks, tours and community celebrations. Many of the events are free, whilst others have a small charge. |
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Reading Walks Festival - Taking place in May each year, Reading Walks Festival features loads of beautiful walks around Reading with knowledgeable guides, a great way to check out new spots and learn about Reading. Most walks are £3 but some are free. Details of the walks are advertised on the What's On Reading website. |
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Reading Water Fest - A family-friendly festival celebrating Reading's waterways, featuring live entertainment, children's activities, boat displays, craft and charity stalls, and refreshments. This event takes place in the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins, and along the Kennet Canal, Reading. More information about the festival can be found on the What's On Reading website. This festival takes place in June each year, and entry is free. |
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Henley Royal Regatta - A prestigious rowing event featuring over 400 races with international competitors. Tickets start from £36, but even if you don’t fancy nabbing a ticket, you can soak up the lively vibe in Henley this weekend! This event takes place in July each year. |
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Reading Festival - One of the UK's most well known music festivals, featuring a diverse and impressive line-up each year. This festival takes place on the August bank holiday each year. Tickets need to be purchased in advance. |
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Reading Pride - A vibrant celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, featuring a colourful parade, live entertainment, food stalls, a funfair, and family-friendly activities. This event takes place in August each year at Kings Meadow, Reading, RG1 8BN, and entry is free. |