📖 About Reading

Reading is a large town in Berkshire, southern England, located at the confluence of the River Thames and River Kennet. With approximately 230,000 residents, this historic market town has transformed into a major commercial center with excellent London connections. Reading is approximately 60 kilometers west of London.

The town is famous for the Reading Festival, one of the UK's oldest and largest music festivals. A major technology hub, Reading hosts headquarters for many international companies. The University of Reading adds academic character. Reading represents successful English urbanization—historic market town grown into prosperous business center while maintaining vibrant cultural life.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Reading is one of Britain's most economically successful towns—technology companies (Microsoft UK, Oracle), insurance, and professional services cluster here. Excellent rail links to London (25 minutes) and Heathrow make it attractive for business. The university contributes education and research. The economy thrives on knowledge industries and London connectivity.

Culture blends traditional English character with multicultural diversity. The Reading Festival (since 1961) brings massive crowds each August. University students add youthful energy. Pubs along the Thames offer traditional atmosphere. Food ranges from gastropubs to international cuisines. The culture is prosperous, diverse, and culturally active—successful English town maintaining identity while growing.

📜 History

Reading has Saxon origins; the abbey was founded in 1121 by Henry I, who is buried there. Medieval prosperity came from wool trade. The abbey was destroyed during the Dissolution; Oscar Wilde was imprisoned in Reading Gaol. Industrial development began with biscuits (Huntley & Palmers) and brewing.

Post-war decades saw technology growth, especially around the M4 corridor. The Oracle shopping centre revitalized the town centre. Recent development has brought urban renewal. Today Reading thrives as one of England's most successful non-London towns—technology hub, festival city, and Thames-side commercial center.