Reading, UK

[benafflicted]

I've accepted an offer at University of Reading in the Fall and I would like any information on what the town is like (atmosphere, things to do, etc.). If you have lived there or around the area, any information would be helpful!

[christophinoz]

Hi

I lived there for 8 years so in brief:

Atmosphere - well, although it's a small town (still awaiting city status) there is a huge population in the surrounds. The centre is relatively small but more than enough to get all that you will need. A random fact often banded around is that it is the place to undertake market research surveys, apparently it is the most average urban area in the country.

Things to do - if you have a car then the opportunities to explore are endless. Located right on the M4 (one of the main arterial roads out of London) you are within 1.5 hours of the west country, Wales, south coast. Birmingham is 2 hours away. If all else fails then it's 25 mins on the fast train to London where you can play to your hearts content - I think you can still get trains back up until 2am over weekends. You may be eligible for a student railcard for ridiculous discounts too.

Nightlife - the centre isn't great but the Uni is decent by all accounts. Some cool bars and pubs but the evenings are laiden with chavs getting completely wasted at one of the many soulless establishments in and around the main shopping areas. The two indie / alternative clubs have closed since I left in '06.

Music - Reading hosts the second longest running music festival in the world every August bank holiday. Originally know as a hard rock festival, it is now held over 3 days and includes indie, alternative, DJs etc... Around 80,000 attend everyday. The Uni also hosts many gigs. There are a handful of artsy places for theatre etc...

Sport - Reading Football club are currently riding high in the second tier and may yet be in the Premiership next season. Lots of opportunities to play all sorts of local level sports.

Uni - good reputation and the campus is within a 15 minute walk of the town centre. Plenty of clubs / associations to join. Housing in the local area isn't cheap though. Decent bus links into town but the whole area is walkable if you need to save those pennies - a bike may be a good investment.

Crime - average with some areas to avoid but these are mainly on the west side of the centre - the uni is towards the south east.

Happy to answer any other queries.