What's new for groups

Thames River Cruise is 50 

Book a trip in Thames River Cruise 50th year! Thames Rivercruise operate from their base in Reading, sailing between Henley and Moulsford through some of the most idyllic and unspoilt Thames reaches. Started by friends Tim Deaton and Dave O’Neil in 1974, the business has grown from one small wooden cruiser to now being the home for both purpose built modern steel boats and a heritage fleet of 1920’s and 1930’s vessels. Tim is one of the oldest and longest serving skippers on the Thames and with his son Ben, continues to run Thames Rivercruise hands on, carrying guests for private charter parties, daily river trips and special afternoon tea cruises through the season. 

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Book a Thames cruise with a Reading walking tour included

New for 2024.  Add an exciting new dimension to your cruise by exploring the beautiful town of Reading on foot with one of Walk Reading’s experienced and knowledgeable guides. Brought to you in partnership with Walk Reading.

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Model Farming gallery at The MERL

Many of us first encounter agriculture through the tiny world of farm toys and scale models. A new gallery at the Museum of English Rural Life (The MERL) displays 150 models drawn largely from a collection of farm toys given to the Museum by Peter-Wade-Martins. This gallery might transport you back to your own childhood, or help you step into the playful shoes of Pippa Hughes with her play farm or Jon Hynard and his pedal tractors.

New Walking Tours for 2024 
Terry’s Reading Walkabouts has two new tours to add to his 16 themed Reading walks. Reading ‘Victoria Park Area’ Walkabout covers the area from the 12th century as Abbey lands through Victorian times to the present; Katesgrove 'Bricks, Iron, Sails, Potts & a Meadow' Walkabout covers the area’s wonderful history, culture, heritage and fine Victorian brickwork. Terry’s walks have raised over £17,000 for mainly local charities and he was the winner of a 2023 Pride of Reading Award for his contribution to local culture.
Walk-Reading  
Walk Reading have added a short introductory Reading walking tour to their repertoire of walks. An ideal way to discover the general history of the town, from its foundation to the largest biscuit manufacturer in the world, the origins of street names, the work of famous Victorian architects, Reading’s place in the history of photography and much more. Walk Reading’s programme starts up again after a winter break in March. 

Jane Austen anniversary in 2025

Reading Museum offers a programme of bookable outdoor walking tours focusing on the history of Reading Abbey and its surrounding precinct, known as the Reading Abbey Quarter. In 2025 we are planning group tours to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The famous novelist attended school at the Abbey Gateway in 1785-86 and had family links to Reading and the Thames Valley.

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