Reading
Properties and events in Reading
Before heading out for your Heritage Open Days visit, please check entries for last-minute changes.
AudaTours Reading Audio Tour: Biscuit Town
A self-guided audio tour of Reading, exploring the Huntley & Palmers biscuit workers, brewers and clerks who built Reading.
Behind the Garden Wall - Gardeners' tales from Caversham Court
Head for the vinery for stories about those who toiled in the gardens of Caversham Court, growing food and flowers for the household and winning prizes at horticultural shows. Look into the former kitchen garden with its 18th century yew hedge.
Behind the Scenes tour of the Royal Berkshire Archives
Discover more about what we do on a FREE behind the scenes tour of the Royal Berkshire Archives.
Berkshire Heritage
Come and visit the Family Research Centre in the old dairy building, now the home of Berkshire Family History Society and see a display of everyday lives in Berkshire.
Brock Keep
Come and see the current exhibition and join tours around the historic former armoury and gatehouse which is home to artist studios and a contemporary art gallery.
Celebrating 100 Years: University of Reading Museums and Collections
A unique chance to view pop-up displays of items from the University of Reading’s Special Collections and Art Collections, housed at The MERL.
Everyday Histories: The Ukrainian Community in Reading
Did you know that Ukrainians have been living in Reading since the 1950s? - Join us between 12 – 4 pm to explore the centre - Hear a special talk at 1 pm on the history of the Ukrainian community - Try delicious food
Festival Evensong
Festival Evensong with refreshments afterwards.
Guided Tour of Reading Old Cemetery
Join us for a guided walk of Reading Old Cemetery. Find out about the history of the site, some of the monuments and the life stories of people buried there. Dressing up optional but fun!
Millwrighting Exhibition and Art Workshop
Explore the story of the millwrights through this exhibition of records held by the Mills Archive Trust, and take part in our drawing and screen printing workshop.
New for 2026 Join us for a nostalgic walk as we retrace the Reading University (UoR) 1984 RAG Float Parade route
A nostalgic walk through Reading streets we retrace the 1984 RAG Float Parade route – a celebration of creativity, community and charity. ‘Raising and Giving’ (RAG) has long been at the heart of Reading Students’ Union’s fundraising spirit.
New for 2026 Tudor to Civil War Reading Walkabout (walking tour): Kings, Queens, Commoners & Life in 16th-17th Century
Our 2nd Period Themed Walkabout - We'll be looking at Reading from 1485 to 1660, covering the reigns of five Tudor monarchs: Henry VII & VIII, Edward VI, Mary I, & Elizabeth I. to beginning of the Stuart Dynasty (James I & Charles I), into Civil War.
Reading Abbey Quarter Tours
Don’t miss the opportunity to join one of Reading Museum’s popular Abbey Quarter tours during Heritage Open Days 2026. Discover the rich history of Reading town centre led by the Museum’s experienced volunteer tour guides.
Reading Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin
Explore over 900 years of history at Reading Minster. Discover historic parish records alongside Norman foundations, Gothic architecture and Victorian restorations, revealing the rich story of Reading and its people.
Reading Quaker Meeting House
Reading Quaker Meeting House will be open from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday 19th September. We will have two talks on ‘The History of Quakers in Reading’ at 11h and ‘Huntley and Palmer's’ at 14h. Garden, art display and refreshments.
Reading Town Hall Organ
Whether you are already an organist, or are simply curious, come along and meet our majestic Father Willis Organ. The day includes our ever-popular Meet the Organ Talk PLUS the chance to have a group lesson.
RISC Edible Roof Garden
Discover a small edible roof forest garden that was developed to demonstrate sustainability and our dependence on plants.
Roman Britain Through Objects
Special handling talks looking at objects from our Roman Silchester collection. Part of our Romans Reimagined Day.
Romans Reimagined Day
A drop-in event to celebrate our Roman Silchester Gallery.
Saint Giles Church Reading
View one of the three medieval churches in Reading. Open 10 30am -.3.30pm on Saturday 12th and Saturday 19th September