The Sights Of Reading

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
Comment this article

Reading isn''t usually high on the list of British must-see tourist destinations, being so close to London and Oxford it often gets overshadowed. However, although there are just a few sites to see in the centre itself, the city and region at large has much to offer.

Reading grew to importance in Tudor times as a centre of the cloth trade in England. There are remains of a medieval abbey but aside from this, there is little to remind you of the city''s medieval heritage. But the Reading Abbey remains are well worth a visit, if not to wonder at the power of Henry 1, the abbey''s benefactor, buried here in 1136, but also to walk through the gardens, which stretch from the abbey itself down to the banks of the River Kennet.

The Kennet as well as the larger River Thames used to be the life blood of the city, but today they are picturesque locations for pleasant afternoon strolls and bike rides, or even a weekend river cruise. Being away from traffic, the towpaths are safe and secure so are ideal for families with young children.

Just eight miles outside of Reading is Silchester Roman Town. The town was abandoned ...
... after the Roman era which means that today there are many archaeological remains still intact. Much of these are yet to be excavated, but on show is the complete ring of city walls, the amphitheatre and a medieval church.

The surrounding countryside is rather beautiful. The Thames Valley stretches the length of the River Thames all the way to London. The area is basically a huge flood plain, which is an oasis for wildlife, particularly birds and water-loving animals.

Because the region is flat, it is perfect for cycling, and as mentioned above, there are numerous interconnecting towpaths allowing you travel on two wheels all day without ever cycling on a road.

There is plenty more to see just a little further afield. Windsor is about an hour''s drive away. Here you will find Windsor Great Park but more famously, the Royal residence, Windsor Castle. Building of the castle began in 1075 and it is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world.

Across the River Thames is Eton, dominated by Eton College, one of the oldest and most well known schools in the world. North of Reading is Henley-on Thames a picturesque town most famous for the Henley Royal Regatta boat race, which has been held every summer, bar the war years, since 1839. Bonny Kominek is a freelance writer and UK travel expert. They recommend octopus Travel for Reading hotels.