AS WE all throw away the holiday brochures in favour of staycations this summer, we thought we would remind locals of the great places to visit that are right on their doorstep.
Here are some of residents' favourite places to go in Reading - and unlike a holiday, these lovely days out won't break the bank.
1. Basildon Park - 4.5* Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR
This National Trust gem is a country house situated to the south of Goring-on-Thames and Streatley, between the villages of Upper Basildon and Lower Basildon.
Trip Advisor rates the park as 4.5/5 stars.
Basildon Park is an impressive Georgian mansion, surrounded by glorious parkland, which was lovingly rescued from ruin by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the mid 1950s.
2. The Museum of English Rural Life - 4.5*
Redlands Rd, Reading RG1 5EX
The Museum of English Rural Life, also known as the MERL, is a museum, library and archive dedicated to recording the changing face of farming and the countryside in England.
It has also scored a 4.5/5 star rating on Trip Advisor.
The museum has something for everyone, with fascinating things to learn and explore as well as shops.
It is perfect for a family day out.
3. Museum of Berkshire Aviation - 4.5*
Mohawk Way, Woodley, RG5 4UE
Another local museum!
The main website describes the venue as showcasing "Berkshire's dynamic contribution to aviation history".
It explains that the museum is run as a charitable trust at the historic site of Woodley Airfield.
Trip Advisor also rates this museum as 4.5/5 stars.
It certainly offers something different and educational for all the family.
4. Kennt and Avon Canal - 4.5*
The Kennet and Avon Canal, at 87 miles long, links London with the Bristol Channel, and passes through some spectacular landscapes.
Many locals enjoy a simple walk by the canal to enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Trip Advisor rates this as having 4.5/5 stars.
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5. Reading Abbey Ruins - 4*
Abbey St, Reading RG1 3BA
This large, ruined abbey sits in the middle of the town, and was founded by Henry I in 1121.
Obviously, this site holds plenty of history and makes for a fascinating visit.
Notably the Quarter includes Reading Museum, the Town Hall, Reading Gaol, St. James' Church, St Laurence's Church, the Forbury Gardens, and the remains of Reading Abbey. The Abbey Ruins and Gateway are both Grade I listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments.
Trip Advisor has rated the site as 4/5 stars.
PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITES OF THESE ATTRACTIONS BEFORE VISITING FOR THE LATEST UPDATES ON POTENTIAL CLOSURES DUE TO COVID-19.
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