You might be surprised to learn that Reading is home to lots of green and blue space - not only does the River Kennet run right through the town centre, but it’s also located on the Thames Path. And if that’s not enough, you’ll find over 100 parks and gardens across the borough. For those who prefer to enjoy the outdoors with a glass of something cold in their hands, we’ve got you covered. These are some of our favourite Reading venues with gardens and outside space to enjoy:
- The Rising Sun
Reading’s newest pub has recently opened with an upmarket makeover - and its garden is just as a special as the inside. With a number of decorated pergolas, a colourful shepherd’s hut bar and eight heated dining pods, you enjoy the outdoors anytime.
- Market House
Once a bank holding actual gold, Market House is now a unique bar, hotel and event space in central Reading. Its best kept secret? Head upstairs to the rooftop garden for sundowners on the terrace. With heating and covered areas, you can enjoy the outdoors year-round.
- Roseate Hotel
Winners of the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award and dubbed as the ‘UK’s Sexiest Townhouse Hotel’ by the Evening Standard, The Roseate is Reading’s luxury boutique hotel, with a food offer also a cut above the rest. Pop outside to discover The Secret Garden, a unique outdoor space, complete with waterfall wall and pomegranate tree - oh la la!
- Oakford Social Club
Right opposite Reading Station on Blagrave St, you’ll find the Oakford. Offering regular live music, a rotating craft beer menu and wide range of food and drink, step outside and you’ll find tree-lined patios which are open year-round (complete with heaters and umbrellas for our temperamental British weather).
- Blue Collar Corner
You’ll find Reading’s independent, permanent street food and bar venue on Hosier Street. With rotating food traders, local drinks and banging DJ sets, there is also a giant beer garden in the summer which transforms to a cosy, heated outdoor area in winter.
- Allied Arms
A small, family-run pub in the heart of Reading, Allied Arms is Reading town centre’s answer to a ‘proper’ country pub. With plenty of seating and heating, its wonderful beer garden is one of the best outside spaces in Reading and a must-visit, whatever the weather!
- Revolution de Cuba
If you’re looking for a tropical Cuban fiesta in the heart of Reading, head across to Revolution de Cuba on Friar Street. Its Latin-inspired menu includes tapas and cocktails and for those long summer evenings head to the Havana Bar and roof terrace for a breath of fresh air.
- Zero Degrees
Reading’s very own microbrewery and restaurant, Zero Degrees offers craft beers and pizzas, alongside a full food and drinks menu. For alfresco drinking dining, you’ll find garden booths, picnic tables and an outdoor terrace to relax on.
- Purple Turtle
Reading’s iconic bar, The Purple Turtle, has been a staple for over 30 years – one of the longest-running independent bars in Reading. Head outside to experience its large beer garden, complete with its own bar, heated areas and shisha.
- The Oracle Riverside
The Oracle Shopping Centre is set on the banks of the River Kennet. With 22 bars, cafes and restaurants dotted along the riverside, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to relaxing, alfresco style.
Don’t forget to download the Reading Food and Drink map to discover over 100 restaurants, bars, pubs, clubs, cafes and takeaways in Reading town centre.