Skip to main content

The charity making life better by water

View of the water from The Oracle, Reading

Reading

Running through Reading, the Kennet & Avon Canal is famed for its scenic beauty and magnificent examples of canal engineering. The town dates back to the mediaeval period, and remnants of its history are evident throughout.

On the River Kennet, County Lock sits in the heart of a busy shopping district – only a stone's throw away from 900 year-old Reading Abbey Ruins. Take a stroll along the Heritage Walk, where you'll find the old Huntley & Palmer's biscuit factory, the goal where Oscar Wilde was imprisoned, and Jane Austen’s school room.

Things to see and do

Places of interest

  • The Heritage Walk starts at The Oracle and follows along Chestnut Walk, taking in Chocolate Island, , Reading Gaol, the Abbey Gateway, and the Abbey Ruins
  • Pack a picnic hamper and enjoy lunch beside County Lock or a short walk takes you to Forbury Gardens
  • The Oracle Shopping Centre straddles the canal, while Reading’s high street and independent shops are a short walk from the canal
  • Visit the burial place of King Henry I

Planning your visit

  • Address

    The Oracle Riverside carpark (P&D), Reading, RG1 2AG

  • Opening times

    The towpath is always open.

  • Prices

    Once you're parked up, it won't cost you a thing.

  • Toilets

    There are public toilets in the shopping centre.

Getting here

loading
  • By car

    Postcode: RG1 2AG

    There is plenty of parking in the town centre, or in the Oracle or Queen's Road car parks overlooking the canal.

  • By train

    Reading Station is a 10-minute walk from the canal.

Planning your visit

photo of a location on the canals
newsletter logo

Stay connected

Sign up to our monthly newsletter and be the first to hear about campaigns, upcoming events and fundraising inspiration