Last Bank Holiday was hot! We enjoyed the record-breaking spring sunshine. Reaching a high of 28.7C. It was the hottest day over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend since the holiday was introduced in 1978. We are looking forward to the next Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May. There are lots of things to do in Berkshire May Bank Holiday Weekend.
Sonning Regatta
If you enjoy chilling out and watching boats go along the Thames then the Sonning Regatta is a must for you. Held on the Saturday of the Bank Holiday Weekend, we can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday! A family fun-filled event held in the picturesque village of Sonning. Enjoy the races, people with all abilities take part in the Sonning Regatta. There are usually all sorts of boats in the race including katakanus and dongolas! If you do decide to turn up, you never now – you could be rubbing shoulders with the likes of George Clooney and his wife Amal.
You can enjoy a picnic on the Thames, and visit the beer tent and BBQ. There is entertainment for the children. There is a variety of stalls with lots of different products on offer.
You can always take part in the races if you are feeling competitive! For more details: sonningfestival.co.uk/the-regatta
Carriage Rides in Windsor Great Park
With all the excitement of the Royal wedding what a great time to experience an elegant horse-drawn carriage through the tranquil Windsor Countryside. A great opportunity to sit back and relax and enjoy the countryside. Your ride will begin at the delightful Savill Gardens. You will experience the Ancient Woodlands, Grand Avenues, Vistas and the tranquil 18th Century Lakes.
With the added bonus of your driver having local knowledge of the Royal Park, you can learn some important history of our country. You will also have the opportunity to have a photo taken with the carriage horse and the carriage that was used by Late Lt, Col.Sir John Miller, who was Her Majesty the Queen’s Equerry and Horsemaster for 26 years. For more details: www.ascotcarriages.co.uk
Sunshine Music Fest
A music festival suited for all the family takes place in Padworth Berkshire over the Bank Holiday Weekend. Set in West Berkshire by the River Kennet. The main stage will host a mix of 80’s artists including, Doctor and the Medics, Duran Duran, Katrina from Katrina and the Waves and take that.
There is also lots of children’s entertainment including film shows and fairground rides. A kids Zone to keep the children occupied. There will also be after dark silent discos: For more details: www.sunshinemusicfest.co.uk
Free Things To Do In Reading
There are many free things to do in Reading including:
The Reading Carnival
The Reading Carnival is a popular carnival for all of the community to enjoy on Bank Holiday Monday at Prospect Park from 12 pm until 7 pm. You can watch the colourful parade and join in the festivities! Be ready to taste some mouthwatering cuisine from the Caribbean and flavours from around the world.
Locals have been getting ready for the Carnival by attending dance workshops and have been creating vibrant costumes. This year will be the 41st Anniversary of a family fun-filled Carnival. You can enjoy the processions and floats. Join in the creative workshops, enjoy the music and the live performers.
Picnic in Forbury Gardens
Forbury Gardens a beautiful Victorian town garden. Located between the town centre and the ruins of the 11th-century abbey, they are not far from Reading Station. A peaceful retreat in ornamental gardens. Bands play every weekend in summer in the bandstand. Forbury Gardens is known for the famous Maiwand Lion Statue.
A great place for children to play outdoors. There is also a kiosk that serves teas and coffees, ice-creams and light lunches. The gardens have won Green Flag Award every year since re-opening. They have also been accredited as a Green Heritage Site. The BALI award and Best Regional Park in Britain in Bloom competition.
If you are looking for more ideas, you can read our blog: 10 Free Things to Do in Reading surehotelreading.co.uk/10-free-things-reading/
Activities In Reading
Depending on what type of activity you are looking for there are lots of things on in Reading over the spring and summer months. If you have families the children’s festival has lots on offer. www.reading.gov.uk/childrensfest
There are 3 local music festivals suitable for all the family
Reading is a lovely town that has lots to offer for everyone. We hope you enjoy your stay in Reading. Our Reading hotel has plenty of free parking, is near the town centre and has a great bus route. Making all the above activities easily accessible.
