At the meeting point of the Thames and Kennet rivers in southern England, Reading is a bustling town with a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern attractions. It is well-known for its Reading Festival, one of the largest outdoor rock music events in the UK, and its lively town center is lined with shops and riverside restaurants, making it a great place for leisurely strolls or dining with a view. History buffs can explore the Reading Museum, which has fascinating exhibits and a remarkable Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. Nearby, the atmospheric ruins of the 12th-century Reading Abbey are next to Forbury Gardens, a wonderfully kept Victorian park that is perfect for leisure.
Are you trying to find some fun things to do in Reading? This lively town has a range of experiences to enjoy, whether you live there or are planning a trip. There’s always something going on, whether it’s family-friendly entertainment, outdoor excursions, or cultural attractions. In this blog, we will discuss various things to do in Reading while exploring upcoming events.
1. The Bounce – Indoor Inflatable Park
The Bounce Park Reading inflatable theme park offers one of the most exciting things to do in Reading for families. Covering 4,762 square feet, it features nine connected inflatables, including a climbing wall, obstacle course, drop slide, and toddler zone. The Bounce Park is perfect for a fun-filled, action-packed day, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
➢Dates: 26th May – 31st May 2025
➢Timing: 10:00 AM- 17:00 PM
➢Location:River Academy, 7 Richfield Avenue, Reading, RG1 8EQ
➢Fees: 1 Hour Open Bounce -£13.50 and x4 Family Open Bounce Ticket £48.00
➢Age Suitability: All ages welcome.
2. Moonpreneur In-Person Educational Workshop
If you’re wondering what to do in Reading, UK, exploring events near Reading, UK, is a great start! One exciting option is Moonpreneur’s free in-person Robotics Workshop for kids happening in Brent, UK, on 28th June, Saturday 11:00 AM GMT.
At this engaging event, children will dive into the world of robotics through hands-on activities, while parents can connect with the Moonpreneur team, discover educational programs, and network with other families. Don’t forget to bring a laptop!
➢ Date: 28th June,Saturday,11:00 AM
BST
➢Location: Kingsbury High School (Upper), Princes Avenue, Kingsbury, Brent, NW9 9JR, United Kingdom
➢Details: In-person workshop for kids
➢Fees: Free
➢Age Suitability: 7-14
The “Rhythm and Brews” festival
The Rhythm and Brews Festival returns for another exciting year! Taking place over the second May Bank Holiday on the 24th and 25th, the weekend promises live music, vibrant markets, refreshing brews, and delicious food. 🌻
This free, charity event supports the Live Bridge UK Charity. Attendees simply need to book their tickets through the official website and present them at the door.
➢Date: 24&25 May, 2025
➢Time: 12:00 pm
➢Location:Burghfield Bridge, Burghfield Road, Reading, RG30 3RB
➢Fees:Free
➢Age Suitability: Children and families.
➢Link: https://cpva.org.uk/
4. Discovery Camp 2025 – Reading Public Museum
Parents looking for an engaging summer option for their kids will find the perfect solution at Museum Discovery Camp, and it is one of the best things to do in Reading. Each week offers thrilling hands-on adventures, from science experiments to exploring ancient civilizations. With activities in art, space, nature, and culture, the camp blends fun and learning, sparking curiosity and a lifelong passion for discovery in every child.
➢Dates: Open 11 AM-5 PM Daily
➢Location: Reading Public Museum,500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611
➢Fees: Museum Members (Family/Grandparent Membership or higher)
•Early Bird (March 1 – April 30): $165/week/child
•Full Price (May 1 – Close): $200/week/child
Non-Members
•Early Bird (April 1 – April 30): $240/week/child
•Full Price (May 1 – Close): $275/week/child
•eading School District Students
•Special Price (March 1 – Close) $165/week/child
➢Age Suitability: Museum Discovery Camp is for children entering grades 1st-5th in the fall of 2025.
➢Link:https://www.readingpublicmuseum.org/discovery-camp-2025
5. Prospect Park
Prospect Park, Reading’s largest open space, offers stunning views from the Mansion House, now a restaurant. The park features open grasslands, a wildlife pond, oak woodland, and sports facilities. Highlights include a children’s play area, a mini steam train running monthly, and popular annual events like Reading Carnival and the steam fair, making it a family favourite, adding a great way to do things in Reading with kids.
➢Date: Every day
➢Time: The park is open daily from 6 am to 1 am, but playgrounds close at 9 pm, and the Parade Ground closes at 10 pm.
➢Location: Liebenrood Rd, Reading RG30 2ND
➢Fees: Free
➢Age Suitability: All ages welcome.
➢Link:https://www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/outdoors/parks-outdoor-facilities-open-spaces/prospect-park/
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6. Museum of English Rural Life
Looking for exciting things to do in Reading? Visit The Museum of English Rural Life at the University of Reading. This fascinating museum uses its diverse collections to explore how the skills and experiences of rural people, both past and present, have shaped our lives. It’s a unique opportunity to discover England’s rural heritage through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
➢Date -Tuesday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm , Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm, Monday: Closed
➢Time – 9 AM to 5:00 PM
➢Location Redlands Rd, Reading RG1 5EX
➢Fees: £5
➢Age Suitability: Children and families of all ages
7. Raver Tots Outdoor Festival Reading 2025
The Raver Tots Outdoor Festival in Reading 2025 is one of the most vibrant, family-friendly rave events, making it ideal for families looking for things to do in Reading with kids. Held under a big top tent, the festival features top DJs playing house, garage, and drum and bass, all brought to life with dazzling special effects. In addition to the music, families can enjoy a funfair, kids’ rides, inflatables, interactive games, arts and crafts, delicious street food, market stalls, and licensed bars—creating a fun-filled experience for all ages.
➢Date: 20th July 2025
➢Time: 1:00 pm
➢Location: Prospect Park, Liebenrood Rd, Reading RG30 2ND ,UK
➢Fees: Babies under 12 months are £5. All kids under 12 require child tickets; children 12 and over require adult tickets.
➢Age Suitability: Children and families of all ages
➢Link: https://www.ravertots.co.uk/event/raver-tots-outdoor-festival-reading-2025/
8. Reading Mela 2025
If you want vibrant things to do in Reading, then don’t miss the Reading Mela, a lively two-day community festival held every August. Celebrating South Asian music, culture, and cuisine, it features live performances, bhangra dance, shopping stalls, delicious food, and a family fun zone. It’s a perfect event to experience Reading’s cultural diversity and festive spirit.
➢Date: 2nd-3rd Aug 2025
➢Time: 12:00 PM – 7 PM
➢Location: Palmer Park, Reading, RG6 1LF
➢Fees: Free
➢Age Suitability: Children and families of all ages
➢Link:https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/reading/palmer-park
9. Stories In The Park 2025 event
Stories In The Park 2025 is a must-attend music festival happening on Saturday, June 14th, at Palmer Park in Reading, Berkshire. Celebrated for its diverse dance music lineup and energetic atmosphere, it draws a large crowd each year. If you’re searching for exciting things to do in Reading, grab your tickets early—they’re expected to sell out fast!
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➢Date:June 14th, 2025
➢Time: 12:00 PM -10.30 PM
➢Location: Palmer Park Reading in Reading.
➢Fees: General Entry £44
➢Age Suitability: 18+
10. PRIVATE VISIT TO THE GARDENS AT UFTON COURT
Step back in time on a self-guided tour of Ufton Court, one of the best things to do in Reading for history buffs. Formerly called Ufton Pole, this medieval manor has connections to Lord Lovell and Tudor royalty. The Elizabethan house boasts concealed priest holes, intact architecture, and ornate beams from nearby Ufton Robert. Explore its intriguing history on special open days—ideal for history enthusiasts keen to discover at their own leisure. Download the guidebook to uncover the secrets of this extraordinary house situated in Reading’s countryside
➢Date: On some special occasion.
➢Time: 10:00 AM -18.00 PM
➢Location: Ufton Court, Green Lane, Ufton Nervet, Reading, RG7 4HD.
➢Fees: General Entry – Adults £10 – Children go FREE
➢Age Suitability: All ages
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an enthusiast of history, music, food, or simply a family day out, there are multiple things to do in Reading, It has a vibrant events calendar to suit all tastes. With its blend of cultural festivals, live performances, and community events, there’s always something to get excited about. So get it in your diary, round up your friends or family, and get set to uncover the best of Reading over the next few months.
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