New students - welcome to Reading

If you have just arrived to start your course at the University of Reading, welcome to our vibrant, diverse and friendly town – you’re going to love it here, trust us! If you’re wondering where to start, here are some of our top tips for settling into Reading as a student.

1. Grab your student essentials
Reading boasts some of the best shopping in the South East, with over 250 national and high-street brand – plus loads of indie retailers to choose from. For those student essentials, head to IKEA, The Range or HomeSense to stock up on everything from pots and pans to duvets.

2. Know how to get from A to B
Reading is a very walkable place, easy to cycle and has the UK's best bus company, Reading Buses, with regular services to campus. Download the app and don’t forget to save with Boost (students can save 1/3 off fares). The night buses run 24/7 so you can stay out as late as you like without having to worry about catching the last bus!

3. Explore the town centre
The University campuses are lovely places to live with great facilities but when you want to explore a bit further afield, you'll find everything you need in Reading town centre and the surrounding areas - from shops, restaurants and bars to arts and cultural spaces, and, of course, great nightlife.   

4. Find out what’s on
We know your first few weeks might be jam-packed with Freshers’ Fairs and Uni activities, but it’s always worth keeping an eye on what’s going on in and around Reading. From arts and exhibitions to gigs and comedy, there are many fantastic events in Reading year-round. Our sister site, whatsonreading.com is your ultimate guide to arts, culture and heritage events in Reading. Don’t forget to follow @visitrdg on Instagram, Facebook and X for events, ideas and news around the town, too.

5. Get active
We all know how important an active lifestyle can be for our overall wellbeing, so why not counteract those inevitable pints and takeaways by making the most of the wonderful sports facilities Reading has to offer. From gyms and leisure centres, to top places to walk and cycle around Reading – make sure you get out and about and explore your new home! Plus, as a riverside town you have to experience the watery days out Reading has to offer.