Celador Apartments’ Best Day Trips From Reading

Reading - A City Full of Culture and History

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 day trips you can take from Reading that are all no more than 30 minutes away.

Dinton Pastures Country Park

9 minutes by train with an additional walk or 12 minutes by car

Just a stone's throw away from Reading, Dinton Pastures Country Park is a hidden treasure and the perfect escape to relax in nature. Spanning over 450 acres, this local gem offers a diverse landscape of lakes, meadows, and woodlands. You can take a frosty walk and warm up with a hot chocolate in the cafe during winter, while in the summer, you can take advantage of a range of activities including pedalos, paddleboards, kayaks and more.

The park is home to several fishing lakes, a visitor centre, and numerous walking trails that provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.

Henley-on-Thames

20 minutes by car or 32 minutes by train

Henley-on-Thames is situated on the river and is regarded as one of the most beautiful English market towns with many historic buildings. Henley is best known for its annual royal regatta in the summer, which attracts some of the world's finest rowers and draws visitors from around the world. 

The town boasts a rich maritime history, with the River & Rowing Museum offering fascinating insights into the area's rowing heritage. When the regatta isn't in full swing, Henley offers everything from unique antique shops to charming cafes, independent boutiques, and the historic marketplace that has been a focal point of the town since medieval times.

Beale Wildlife Park

20 minutes by car

There are not many places you can catch alpacas, 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.

There are not many places where you can catch alpacas, meerkats and monkeys in Reading, but at Beale Wildlife Park you can! An excellent spot for a day of family fun, Beale Wildlife Park is home to all sorts of exciting animals and offers guided talks and a range of play areas for children.

Located in Lower Basildon, the park spans 35 acres and doesn’t just feature animal exhibits, but also beautiful gardens, a miniature railway, and adventure playgrounds. It's particularly popular with families looking for an engaging and educational day out.

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 'Downton Abbey' and numerous TV shows have used the house and its 400 acres of parkland for filming. 

Owned by the National Trust, the property offers visitors a glimpse into Georgian architecture and landscaping. There are lots of winter activities, including candlelight mansion tours, seasonal exhibitions, and themed events all throughout the year. The surrounding parkland provides excellent walking trails and picnic spots, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers. 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's State Apartments and St. George's Chapel 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. The town offers a charming mix of royal history, boutique shopping, and beautiful riverside walks. Don't miss the opportunity to watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessential British experience.

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 College for its beautiful 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, visiting world-class museums like the Ashmolean, and exploring the stunning architecture that spans centuries. The Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, offers guided tours that provide fascinating insights into the city's academic heritage.

Mapledurham House and Watermill

15 minutes by car

A sometimes overlooked destination near Reading, Mapledurham House is a stunning Tudor-style manor house set in beautiful countryside. The historic watermill, one of the last working watermills on the River Thames, offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional milling techniques. The estate has been featured in films, including the 1976 version of The Eagle Has Landed. Visitors can explore the house, take guided tours, and enjoy walks through the picturesque grounds.

The Living Rainforest

20 minutes by car

Located in Hampstead Norreys, The Living Rainforest is a unique tropical greenhouse where visitors can experience an authentic rainforest environment. Home to rare and endangered species of plants and animals, the attraction offers an educational and immersive experience. You'll encounter exotic birds, insects, and plants from around the world, making it an excellent day trip for nature enthusiasts and families.

Newbury Racecourse

25 minutes by car

If you’re interested in horse racing, Newbury Racecourse offers an exciting day out. One of the UK's leading racecourses, it hosts several major racing events throughout the year. Even if you're not a betting enthusiast, the venue offers beautiful grounds, excellent dining options, and regular events including summer concerts and family fun days. The course is easily accessible from Reading and provides a unique entertainment experience.

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.

Book Your Stay Today

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Reading and its surrounding areas offer an incredible array of day trip experiences waiting to be discovered. With Celador Apartments as your perfect base, you're perfectly positioned to explore the best of Berkshire and beyond. Book your stay today and start planning your next unforgettable adventure.

Click here to reserve your home-from-home sanctuary for a stay in the heart of Reading.