Here you will find a selection of walking tours for groups and individuals either guided or self- led and ideas for refreshment stops.
A programme of outdoor walking tours focusing on the history of Reading Abbey and its surrounding precinct, known as the Reading Abbey Quarter. All tours start in the Story of Reading gallery at Reading Museum and are led by our knowledgeable, friendly volunteer tours guides.
· Reading Abbey Quarter tour (90 minutes) - Explores the heart of medieval Reading, highlighting the Abbey Quarter, including the Hospitium where medieval pilgrims stayed, Reading's involvement in the English Civil War and ends in the newly-conserved Reading Abbey Ruins, re-opened in June 2018. Cost £150 for 10-20 people.
· Reading Abbey Gateway tour (45 minutes) - the newly restored medieval Grade I listed Abbey Gateway and its fascinating history. Hear about the Abbey monks, visiting royalty, links to novelist Jane Austen and the vital conservation work done, to bring it back to life. Please note that the Gateway has no step free access and there are uneven steps and floors. Cost £75 for 10-20 people
These walking maps link the Riverside Museum at Blake’s Lock, Reading Museum and the River Thames.
Combine a walk with a Thames Rivercruise boat trip. Walk from Reading to Shiplake (7 miles). Meet your boat at Shiplake Lock and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea on board during your guided cruise on the return to Reading. Download the leaflet here.
Guided walks (non-profit). These are fun and interactive ways to find out about Reading with seven different Walkabout Routes/Themes :
Tuesday and Thursdays 10am; occasional Saturdays and Sundays at 10am 2 hours, starting outside the train station.
GROUPS: 20 maximum group size, 20% reduction of cost for groups.Customisation provided. Choice of multiple topics about Reading, which can be tailored to the interests of the group. Group bookings Email: terry.dixon89@virginmedia.com, 07505351517, www.facebook.com/terrysreadingwalkabouts
Bespoke tours by coach, public transport or on foot for groups or individuals around Reading and throughout the Great West Way area. Blue Badge Tourist Guide. 24 hours, 7 days a week . Specialised rates for groups, maximum size is: 53 coach tour, 27 walking tour; rates are negotiable, depending on customer requirements.
Email: graham@tours2order.com, 01189342231/07827 715353, www.tours2order.com
Bel & The Dragon – Bel & The Dragon, adjacent to Riverside Museum, is a former biscuit factory and is located on the waterfront of the Kennet & Avon Canal. The boardwalk and dining riverboat, The Majestic Bel, also provide an ideal waterside setting for alfresco & private dining. (Private dining up to 120).
Blakes Lock, Gas Works Road, Reading RG1 3EQ
www.belandthedragon-reading.co.uk/
The Pantry Café and Kitchen at Reading Museum – Opened in 2019 and forming part of the beautiful 18th Century Town Hall and Museum building, the café is open 8am-6pm.
Blagrave St, Reading RG1 1QH
Bill’s Restaurant and Bar
Set in an elegant Georgian building, Bill’s offers a Group Set menu and private dining up to 50.
Saint Marys Church House, Chain Street, Reading RG1 2HX