Next on our blog tour is Reading, a city often overlooked by tourists. Reading is a powerhouse of industrial history and a vital crossroads on the Thames Path. While it may not boast the royal glamour of Windsor or the riverside elegance of Henley, Reading has its own fascinating story to tell—a tale of Victorian enterprise, medieval grandeur, and literary intrigue.

The Three Bs

In the Victorian era, Reading was famous for the “Three Bs”: Beer, Bulbs, and Biscuits.

  • Beer came courtesy of Simonds Brewery, which supplied ale across the country and even to the British Army.
  • Bulbs were the speciality of Suttons Seeds, a company that revolutionised gardening and horticulture.
  • And then there were Biscuits—Huntley & Palmers turned Reading into the biscuit capital of the world, exporting their sweet treats to over 100 countries. At its peak, the factory was the largest biscuit manufacturer on the planet, and its ornate tins became collectors’ items.

Today, echoes of this industrial boom remain in the town’s architecture and museums. If you have time, pop into the Reading Museum to see the famous Huntley & Palmers collection and learn how these three industries shaped the town’s identity.

Royal Resting Place

Just steps from the river lie the ruins of Reading Abbey, once one of the largest monasteries in Europe. Founded by Henry I in 1121, the abbey became a centre of pilgrimage and power—until Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries brought its downfall. Henry I himself was buried here, making Reading Abbey a royal resting place steeped in history. Today, the atmospheric ruins offer a glimpse into the medieval past and provide a peaceful spot to pause along the trail.

The Hidden Oscar Wilde

The Thames Path passes right by the imposing walls of the former Reading Gaol, a building with a story as dramatic as any novel. It was here that Oscar Wilde served his sentence in the 1890s, an experience that inspired his haunting poem The Ballad of Reading Gaol. The gaol has long since closed, but its stark exterior remains a poignant reminder of Wilde’s time in captivity—and of the town’s unexpected literary connection.

Why Reading Deserves a Second Look

Reading may not be the first name on a tourist’s list, but for walkers on the Thames Path, it offers a fascinating blend of heritage and hidden gems. From Victorian industry to royal history and literary lore, this town rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the surface. Stop for a coffee in one of its independent cafés, wander through its riverside parks, and let Reading surprise you.

Visit Reading | Welcome to Reading