About Reading in Berkshire

Reading is a large town in Berkshire, England, with a population of 158,000. It is situated in the Thames Valley at the confluence of the River Thames and River Kennet, and on both the Great Western Main Line railway and the M4 motorway. Reading is 35 miles (56 km) west of central London, 15 miles (24 km) east of Swindon, 40 miles (64 km) southeast of Oxford and 50 miles (80 km) northeast of Basingstoke.

The first evidence for Reading as a settlement dates from the 8th century, when it was known as Readaingas. It grew rapidly in the Middle Ages, becoming a prosperous market town by the 15th century. The town was severely affected by both world wars, with widespread damage and loss of life. Despite this, it remained a major centre for industry and commerce, and is now a major commercial centre with a diverse economy.

Reading is home to three major universities: the University of Reading, Henley Business School and Reading School of Art. The town also has a large number of primary and secondary schools, as well as cultural attractions such as the Museum of Reading and the Reading Festival.