Reading is a vibrant town in Berkshire, England. Most tourists who prefer to tour around with taxi services overlook it and flock to London. However, there are so many spots here that you can visit with Reading taxi cabs. With reliable taxi service like Bliss Cars247 – Reading Taxis, you can easily explore these spots without worrying about transportation. In fact, this way, you can also beat the rush of traffic jams because taxi drivers know about the best routes. Anyway, if you want to know more about these spots, read this blog till the end. Here we go…
Reading’s top 10 hidden places to visit with Reading Taxis
As aforementioned, Reading is home to many gems. While some are famous, others are hidden. So, if you are visiting Reading, you need to know about these hidden ones to get the most out of your tour. And of course, if you want to fully explore these places, you need a reliable Reading taxi service by your side. Anyway, here are the top 10 hidden places in Reading…
1. The Maiwand Lion
This spot is located in Forbury Gardens, and it is a stunning war memorial. It commemorates the Battle of Maiwand in 1880. If you are a history buff or a person who loves to appreciate intricate architecture, then this is a must-visit for you. This majestic lion statue is simply overwhelming and amazing to look at. If you want to see it, take a Reading taxi Gardens and spend some time admiring this magnificent monument.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 (public park) |
| Visiting Hours | 6 am – 10 pm (park gates) |
| Best Time to Visit | Daylight hours |
| Accessibility | Public Park, flat paved surface, benches and seating areas |
| Entrances/Exits | Several entrances and exits throughout the park |
| Food and Drink | Visitors welcome to bring their own |
2. The Harris Garden
This garden is on the University of Reading’s campus. It is very serene and tranquil. Here, you will find an impressive collection of plants and flowers. If you want to have a relaxing site for yourself, you can take a nice and leisurely stroll here. Additionally, you can also host a picnic here with friends. Just book your taxi, get to the university campus, and explore this hidden gem of Reading.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | 9 am – 5 pm (April to September), 9 am – 4 pm (October to March) |
| Visiting Hours | 9 am – 5 pm (April to September), 9 am – 4 pm (October to March) |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and summer for blooming flowers |
| Entrances/Exits | Several entrances and exits throughout the garden |
| Food and Drink | Visitors are welcome to bring their own, or use the nearby university café |
| Special Events | Guided tours, plant sales, and other events throughout the year |
| Admission | Free admission, donations welcome |
3. The Rivermead Leisure Complex
The Rivermead Leisure Complex is often overshadowed by more popular attractions in Reading. However, it is not entirely unknown. In this complex, you will find a range of activities. For example, you can enjoy bowling, ice skating, and even watch movies in a cinema.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | Different parts of the building may have slightly different opening times throughout the day. Please check before you visit. |
| Facilities | 120 station gym, 8-lane competition swimming pool, diving and teaching pool, Group Cycle studio, 2 large exercise studios, 6 court sports hall, Children’s Soft play, 3 Party Rooms, full-size all-weather pitch, Café |
| Location | Located just a short walk from the town center, Reading Station and the Oracle, Reading’s main shopping center |
| Car Parking | 112 standard car parking spaces, including 14 EV charging points, 22 accessible and 14 family spaces. Additional 202 spaces available in overflow car parks |
| Accessibility | Hearing loop available at reception desk to assist individuals with reduced ranges of hearing |
| Partnership | Working in partnership with Reading Borough Council |
| Membership | Part of the Better leisure center network, a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 |
4. The Cole Museum of Zoology
This hidden gem is also located within the University of Reading’s campus. It is a treasure trove of taxidermied animals and zoological specimens. You can think of it as a quirky museum that you must visit with friends. It is an amazing place for people who are fascinated by the natural world and wildlife.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. Closed weekends, Bank holidays, and University of Reading holidays. |
| Location | University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, RG6 6AJ |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | Over 3,500 specimens on display, including a giant squid, a quagga, and a false killer whale |
| Guided Tours | Free guided tours available, led by experienced staff and volunteers |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities |
| Admission | Free admission, donations welcome |
5. The Beale Park Wildlife Park and Gardens
If you are an animal lover who loves to interact with the wildlife, then this is the best place for you to visit. This park is home to a diverse range of animals. Here, you will find tigers, monkeys, and penguins. There are also rare birds and insects here. You can enjoy time in a café here and even plan picnics with your family and friends.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | 10am – 5pm (April to September), 10am – 4pm (October to March) |
| Ticket Prices | Adult: £13.95, Child (2-15): £10.95, Senior: £12.95, Family (2+2): £45.95 |
| Location | Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NH |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | Over 200 species of animals, including tigers, monkeys, penguins, and more |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including animal encounters, feeding demonstrations, and family-friendly activities |
| Food and Drink | Café and picnic areas available |
6. The Caversham Court
This is a stunning 16th-century mansion nestled in the heart of Caversham. The Caversham Court features beautiful gardens, a riverside walk, and a fascinating history. If you have a thing for old mansions and historic sites, you will enjoy your stay here. Any and every Reading taxi can give you direct transportation to and from the site without any hassle.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | 8am – dusk, every day except Christmas Day |
| Location | Caversham, Reading, RG4 7AD |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | A charming walled garden with terraced lawns leading down to the river Thames, many mature specimen trees, flower borders, and a lavender bank |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including open air theatre and cinema |
| Food and Drink | Tea Kiosk available, thanks to volunteers from local charities |
7. The Wellington Country Park
The Wellington Country Park is a beautiful green space. It offers walking trails, a lake, and plenty of picnic spots. You can have a relaxing day here and get in touch with nature to soothe your soul. It is located just in the surrounding area of Reading. You can easily book Reading taxis and get to this amazing destination.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | The park operates a seasonal admission tariff, where prices and opening times may vary. Please check the website for the most up-to-date information. |
| Location | Odiham Road, Riseley, RG7 1SP |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | A range of outdoor attractions and exciting events, including a miniature railway, animal farm, and splash zone |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including Halloween fun and Christmas events |
| Food and Drink | The Main Café is situated within the Main Reception building and is open daily from 9:30 am – 4.30pm low season (5.30pm high season) and offers a full range of meals, snacks and refreshments. |
8. The Greyfriars Church
If you want to visit one of the oldest buildings in Reading, try this. It features stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. This place has a soul of itself – you feel more connected to the world spiritually here. To visit this, just take a taxi to the town center and explore this hidden gem.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | Monday to Saturday: 10am – 4pm, Sunday: 12pm – 4pm |
| Location | Friar Street, Reading, RG1 1EH |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | A 13th-century church with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including concerts, exhibitions, and lectures |
| Food and Drink | Tea and coffee available in the church, and nearby cafes and restaurants |
9. The MERL (Museum of English Rural Life)
This hidden gem is also located within the University of Reading’s campus. It is a unique museum that showcases the history of rural England. You will find a range of exhibits here. For example, recreated Victorian farmhouses and a collection of rural artifacts. So, if you want to have a historical look at English rural life, book a Reading taxi to the university campus and explore this hidden gem.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | Tuesday to Friday: 9am – 5pm, Saturday: 10am – 5pm, Sunday: 10am – 4pm, Monday: Closed |
| Location | Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a hearing loop available |
| Exhibits | A collection of over 25,000 objects, including a recreated Victorian farmhouse, a collection of rural artifacts, and a gallery on the history of English rural life |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities |
| Food and Drink | The MERL Café is open Tuesday to Sunday, serving a range of food and drink |
10. The Thames River Cruise
If you want a unique perspective in Reading, you need a cruise on the Thames. It will relax your and offer a stunning view of the town and its surroundings. It is a must-do activity for people who are new to Reading.
| Category | Information |
| Opening Hours | Office Hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). Private Charter operates 7 days per week by prior arrangement. Scheduled Cruises operate at Weekends and Bank Holidays from April through to the end of October and then daily during the Easter School Holidays, May Half Term & Summer School Holidays. |
| Location | Caversham Pier, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 8BD |
| Accessibility | Ramp/Level Access, Wheelchair user accessible, Catering for groups, Full liquor license, Refreshments Available, Vegetarians catered for, Babes in Arms, Family Friendly, Children Welcome |
| Cruise Options | 45-minute trip, 60-minute trip, 90-minute trip, Themed Cruises (e.g. Sunday Lunch Cruise, Afternoon Tea Cruise, Saturday Sundowner Cruise) |
| Special Events | Regular special events and activities, including themed cruises and private charters |
| Food and Drink | Fully stocked bar onboard serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Catering for groups, Vegetarians catered for |
Conclusion
Clearly, Reading is a treasure trove of hidden gems. With a reliable taxi service, you can easily explore all these spots without worrying about transportation or traffic issues. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, these hidden gems have something for everyone. So, book a tour taxi or simple airport transfer service to start exploring these top 10 hidden gems in Reading today!
