Celador Apartments’ Best Day Trips From Reading

Reading is a town full of culture and history with lots to do, but if you are looking to venture further afield, there are plenty of great day trips to explore just outside of Reading.

Here are our top recommendations for days trips you can take from Reading that are all no more than 30 minutes away.

Dinton Pastures Country Park

Just a stone’s throw away from Reading, Dinton Pastures Country Park is a hidden treasure and the perfect escape to relax in nature. You can take a frosty walk and warm up with a hot chocolate in the cafe in the winter months, while in the summer, you can take advantage of a range of activities including pedalos, paddleboards, kayaks and more.

Henley-on-Thames

20 minutes by car or 32 minutes by train

Henley-on-Thames is situated on the River Thames and is regarded as one of the most beautiful English market towns with many historical buildings. Henley is best known for its annual royal regatta in the summer, which attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Even when the regatta isn’t in full swing, Henley offers everything from unique antique shops to cafes and even a rowing museum.

Beale Wildlife Park

20 minutes by car There are not many places you can catch alpaca, meerkats and monkeys in Reading, but at Beale Wildlife Park you can! An excellent spot for a day of family fun, Beale Wildlife Park boasts home to several exciting animals and there are guided talks and a range of play areas for children.

Basildon Park

21 minutes by car The 18th-century Grade I listed mansion allows you to step back in time and experience the elegant interiors of historic Britain. Basildon Park starred in the popular show ‘Downtown Abbey’ and numerous TV shows have used the house and its 400 acres of parkland for filming. There are lots of winter activities taking place this year at Basildon Park including candlelight mansion tours and more. Visit the National Trust Website to find out more.

Windsor

24 minutes by train or 34 minutes by car

Windsor is home to the oldest and largest inhabited castle, one of the Queen’s official royal residences. There is plenty to do, from exploring the Castle to taking a stroll along the Long Walk. Situated on the River Thames, you can even take a boat trip along the river or tour Eton College, where Prince William and Harry went to school.

Oxford

25 minutes by train or 48 minutes by car

Home to the world-famous Oxford University, you can explore many of the 39 different university colleges (we recommend Magdalen for its deer park) to discover the beauty of this historic university city. There are a wealth of activities in Oxford including taking a walking tour, going punting on the River Cherwell and more.

London

25 minutes by train or  1 hour 11 minutes by car

The most visited city in Europe, London has a rich history and many cultural activities to explore, from free museums to art galleries and theatres. There is also first-class shopping and beautiful parks such as Hyde Park. The list of activities is almost endless.