The "25-Minute" Surprise

I used to think of Reading as just a stop on the train line or the place where thousands of muddy music fans converge every August. But did you know it’s only 25 minutes from London Paddington by train? With the new Elizabeth Line connection, it has effectively become part of the London network, making it the easiest escape from the capital’s chaos.

I hopped off the train expecting a concrete jungle, but I found a town filled with medieval ruins, riverside pubs, and literary history.

Game of Thrones Vibes at the Abbey Ruins

The biggest surprise was the Reading Abbey Ruins. I stumbled upon them right in the town center. Founded by King Henry I in 1121 (who is actually buried here, somewhere!), the abbey was once one of the largest in Europe.

Today, the ruins stand tall and craggy against the modern skyline. Walking through the empty stone arches feels incredibly atmospheric—almost like a set from Game of Thrones. Right next door is Forbury Gardens, a beautifully manicured Victorian park famous for the massive Maiwand Lion statue. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day.

Riverside Chill

Reading sits right where the River Kennet meets the River Thames. The riverside area, known as The Oracle, is technically a shopping center, but the waterfront dining strip is lovely.

However, for a more authentic experience, I walked a bit further along the canal. Seeing the narrowboats drift by and stopping for a pint at a traditional pub like The Fisherman's Cottage felt worlds away from the busy train station.

Oscar Wilde and Literary Giants

Literature fans will get a kick out of this town. Reading Gaol (Jail) is where Oscar Wilde was imprisoned and wrote De Profundis. While you can't always go inside (it opens for occasional exhibitions), seeing the imposing walls is chilling. Jane Austen also went to boarding school here. It’s crazy to think how much history is packed into such a walkable area.

A Student Hotspot on the Rise

Because of its incredible connectivity and the highly-ranked University of Reading, the town has a vibrant, youthful energy. It’s not just a commuter town anymore; it’s a destination in its own right.

The university campus is massive and lush (consistently voted one of the best green spaces in the UK). With the Elizabeth Line making London so accessible, more and more young people are choosing to base themselves here. For international students, finding modern student accommodation in Reading offers the best of both worlds: a lower cost of living compared to London, but with the capital still right on their doorstep.

My Verdict

Reading isn't trying to be Bath or Oxford. It’s unpretentious, functional, but surprisingly beautiful if you know where to look. If you have a free Saturday and want to see where medieval history meets modern life (without the tourist crowds), give Reading a chance. It’s so much more than just a festival site.