Explore Reading: Top 8 Activities
Reading, a vibrant town in England, offers a myriad of opportunities for students seeking affordable shopping and dining experiences. Forbury Gardens, a tranquil public park, serves as a perfect retreat amidst the bustling town, featuring a bandstand, the Maiwand Lion statue, and a kiosk.
When it comes to shopping, Reading's main attraction is the Oracle Shopping Centre. This expansive mall houses high street favourites such as H&M, Zara, and Primark, typically offering student discounts or affordable pricing. The Broad Street area, brimming with independent shops and eateries, provides diverse clothing and stationery options for students. Many retailers in these areas are known to offer student discounts on essentials like clothes and study supplies [1].
For dining, the town centre and areas near the University of Reading cater to student budgets with numerous affordable options. These include popular fast food chains, cafes for coffees and light snacks, and diverse international food outlets (such as Indian, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines). Student-friendly spots often provide meal deals or discounts during weekdays or off-peak hours [2].
The University of Reading and local businesses often promote student discounts and offers on shopping and dining. Students can also use apps or cards such as the NUS Totum card to access discounts at participating shops and restaurants [3].
To delve deeper into local student offers, checking the University of Reading’s official student services or student union websites and social media accounts is recommended [5]. Some popular venues and brands in Reading for students include The Oracle, the Kennet and Avon Canal, the Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology, and Forbury Gardens.
The Oracle, located on the banks of the River Kennet, offers a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and a cinema, with popular brands like Boss, H&M, Topshop, and Zara [4]. The Kennet and Avon Canal, a waterway linking London with the Bristol channel, provides a peaceful place for relaxation, exercise, and commute, with beautiful landscapes and wildlife [6]. The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology, located within the University of Reading, offers an opportunity to expand knowledge on Greek mythology and Greco-Roman civilizations through its many vases, imagery, and artifacts [7].
Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or simply unwind, Reading offers a wealth of student-friendly options. So, come explore this charming town and make the most of your student experience!
[1] - https://www.studentbeans.com/uk/guides/reading-student-discounts [2] - https://www.readingstudent.com/guides/things-to-do/student-friendly-eating-out-in-reading/ [3] - https://www.nus.org.uk/totum/partners/ [4] - https://www.theoracle.co.uk/ [5] - https://www.reading.ac.uk/student-services/student-support/ [6] - https://www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/thames/kennet-and-avon-canal [7] - https://www.reading.ac.uk/ure-museum/
- For students seeking a place to live, student accommodation near the University of Reading is plentiful, offering affordable housing options in modern complexes.
- To complement their university lifestyle, students in Reading can enhance their living space by exploring home-and-garden stores or making travel plans to explore new cities during their breaks, as the town's railway station provides easy access to popular destinations in England.
