Reading worth a look

Reading isn''t usually high on the list of British must-see tourist destinations, being so close to London and Oxford it often gets overshadowed. However, although there are just a few sites to see in the centre itself, the city and region at large has much to offer.

Reading grew to importance in Tudor times as a centre of the cloth trade in England. There are remains of a medieval abbey but aside from this, there is little to remind you of the city''s medieval heritage. But the Reading Abbey remains are well worth a visit, if not to wonder at the power of Henry 1, the abbey''s benefactor, buried here in 1136, but also to walk through the gardens, which stretch from the abbey itself down to the banks of the River Kennet.

The rivers, Thames and Kennet were once the life blood of the city, and even now they are the locations for pleasant afternoon strolls and bike rides, or even a weekend river cruise. The towpaths are safe and secure, away from traffic so are ideal for families with young children.

Just eight miles outside of Reading is Silchester Roman Town. The town was abandoned after the Roman era which means that today there are many archaeological remains still intact. Much of these are yet to be excavated, but on show is the complete ring of city walls, the amphitheatre and a medieval church.

The Thames Valley is a beautiful stretch of countryside that is well worth exploring. This giant floodplain has become an oasis for wildlife, namely birds and water-loving animals.

As the region is so flat, and criss-crossed with cycle paths, bridleways and tow paths, it is great for exploring on two wheels or even by foot. You can spend the whole day away from roads and cover miles of stunning countryside.

A little further a field there is even more to see and do. Windsor, with its Royal Castle and Great Park should definitely be on the cards. Windsor Castle, built in 1075, is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world.

Opposite Windsor, on the other side of the River Thames is Eton. The town is dominated by Eton College, one of the oldest and most well known schools in the world. Henley-on-Thames is a short drive north of Reading. This picturesque town is most famous for the Henley Royal Regatta boat race, which has been held every summer, bar the war years, since 1839.

Article Source: http://www.casinoarticlessite.com

Caron Kristan is a freelance writer and UK travel expert. They recommend octopus Travel for Reading hotels.

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