Reading Museum and Town Hall

Reading Museum and Town Hall which includes heritage elements, theatre scenes and interior views


Marvel at a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry and inspect the artifacts from the Roman town Calleva Atrebatum in this enchanting structure.

The Reading Museum and Town Hall has a comprehensive set of exhibits on the history of the region. The institution comprises a 19th-century castle-like structure with a flamboyant façade that stands out for its orange and gray color scheme. Amble along the myriad galleries spread throughout this mesmerizing building to piece together the industrial and archaeological history of Reading.

Capture photos of the intriguing front of the building, which has a pair of large triangular pediments, elaborate bay windows and arched windows. A dark orange hue laces the base of the turrets and spires as well as the other fixtures.

Enter through the large arched portal in the center of the façade and begin exploring the permanent exhibits. Examine the fascinating archaeological artifacts excavated from digs at the Roman Silchester site, formerly known as Calleva Atrebatum. Learn about Reading in the Middle Ages from the exhibit on Reading Abbey, whose ruins lie nearby.

Other highlights include the acclaimed Aldermaston works of pottery and the iconic Huntley & Palmers biscuit tins, which are popular collectors’ items. Make your way through the Sir John Madejski Art Gallery for the eclectic program of temporary displays. Take a break with snacks and drinks in the museum café and browse the items available in the gift shop.

Note that the museum has been a key part of the townscape since its inception in 1883. It is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from morning until afternoon and is free to enter.

The Reading Museum and Town Hall lies in the heart of the city. Take a bus to one of the stops beside it or arrive at the Reading railway station and walk southeast for a few minutes to get here. Make sure to see other sights in the district, such as Forbury Gardens, the Reading Abbey Ruins and the Oracle mall.

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & SPA
Corinthia London
The Berkeley

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

pentahotel Reading
pentahotel Reading
4 out of 5
Oxford Road, Reading, England
pentahotel Reading
Novotel Reading Centre
Novotel Reading Centre
4 out of 5
25b Friar Street, Reading, England
Novotel Reading Centre
ibis Reading Centre
ibis Reading Centre
3 out of 5
25A Friar Street, Reading, England
ibis Reading Centre
easyHotel Reading
easyHotel Reading
3 out of 5
132-138 Caversham Road, Reading, England
easyHotel Reading
The Roseate Reading
The Roseate Reading
5 out of 5
26 The Forbury, Reading, England
The Roseate Reading
Crowne Plaza Reading, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Reading, an IHG Hotel
4 out of 5
Caversham Bridge Richfield Avenue, Reading, England
Crowne Plaza Reading, an IHG Hotel
The Market House
The Market House
3.5 out of 5
1-2 Market Place, Reading, England
The Market House
Hotel 1843 Reading
Hotel 1843 Reading
3 out of 5
33 London Street, Reading, England
Hotel 1843 Reading
Sure Hotel by Best Western Reading
Sure Hotel by Best Western Reading
2 out of 5
39 Christchurch Road, Reading, England
Sure Hotel by Best Western Reading
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.