Reading’s Sky-High Sips: A Guide to Our Favorite Rooftop Bars
As a Reading local, I’ve seen our town evolve, and one of the most exciting developments has been the rise of fantastic rooftop bars. Gone are the days when a quick pint at a traditional pub was your only evening option. Now, you can literally elevate your experience and enjoy stunning views of Reading, from the gentle curve of the Thames to the historic buildings that dot our landscape. Whether you’re looking for a chic spot for cocktails, a relaxed setting for after-work drinks, or a place to soak up the sun with friends, Reading has a rooftop for you. Let’s dive into some of my personal favorites!
1. The Botanist Reading: A Blooming Oasis Above the Town
The Botanist in Reading is a name that resonates with many, and for good reason. Located right in the heart of the town centre, their rooftop terrace is an absolute gem. It’s a place where the vibrant energy of Reading meets a touch of botanical charm. Imagine this: you’re sipping on one of their expertly crafted cocktails, perhaps a Floral Gin Fizz or a classic Mojito, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle hum of the city below. The view isn’t a sprawling panorama, but it offers a lovely perspective of the bustling street life and the rooftops of neighbouring buildings – it feels intimate and chic.
Why I love it: The atmosphere here is always buzzing, yet it manages to feel sophisticated. The cocktails are creative and delicious, and their food menu is equally impressive if you’re looking for a bite to eat. They often have live music, which adds another layer to the experience, especially on a warm summer evening. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a celebratory drink with friends.
Insider Tip: Bookings are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday afternoon. Don’t miss their famous hanging kebabs – they’re a must-try!
Location: 13-15 King St, Reading RG1 2HG
2. Revolution Reading: Party Vibes with a View
For those who like their evenings with a bit more of a party spirit, Revolution Reading’s rooftop bar is a fantastic option. Situated in a prime location, this spot offers a lively atmosphere combined with decent views over the town. It’s the kind of place where you can start with a few drinks and easily transition into a night of dancing. Their extensive vodka selection is legendary, but they also offer a wide range of other spirits, beers, wines, and a colourful array of cocktails that are perfect for sharing.
Why I love it: Revolution is known for its fun and energetic vibe, and the rooftop bar is no exception. It’s a great place to gather a larger group, celebrate a birthday, or just have a really good time. The music is usually upbeat, and the staff are always friendly and efficient, even when it’s busy. The rooftop space is well-designed, offering a good balance of seating and standing areas.
Insider Tip: Keep an eye on their social media for special events and themed nights. They often have drinks offers that are too good to miss. If you’re a vodka enthusiast, this is your mecca!
Location: 15 Market Pl, Reading RG1 2DG
3. Purple Turtle: Reading’s Long-Standing Alternative Gem with a Rooftop Surprise
Purple Turtle is an iconic Reading institution, a beloved spot for live music, indie vibes, and a no-nonsense approach to good times. While many know it for its legendary ground-floor bar and music venue, fewer realise it boasts a surprisingly pleasant rooftop space. It’s not a sprawling, manicured terrace, but rather a more laid-back, almost secret garden feel. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle below, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the town centre’s flashier venues.
Why I love it: It’s Purple Turtle! It’s got that authentic, slightly gritty charm that Reading locals appreciate. The rooftop offers a great spot to chill with a craft beer or a cider after work, or to catch up with friends without the deafening noise of the main bar. It feels more down-to-earth and unpretentious, which is a breath of fresh air.
Insider Tip: This is the place to go if you want to experience Reading’s alternative scene. Check their listings for live music – you might discover your new favourite band. Don’t be afraid to explore the whole venue; the rooftop is just one part of its charm.
Location: 9 Albert Rd, Reading RG1 7HE
4. Dean Street Townhouse (The Old Fire Station): A Touch of Elegance
For a more refined rooftop experience, the Dean Street Townhouse, housed within the beautifully restored Old Fire Station, offers a sophisticated setting. While not exclusively a rooftop bar, their outdoor spaces, including a courtyard and upper-level areas, can provide a similar elevated feel. It’s about enjoying quality drinks in a stylish environment. The focus here is on premium spirits, fine wines, and well-made classic cocktails, all served with impeccable attention to detail.
Why I love it: The architecture of the Old Fire Station alone is worth the visit. The Dean Street Townhouse manages to blend historical charm with modern luxury perfectly. The rooftop seating areas, when available and weather permitting, offer a more exclusive and peaceful vantage point. It’s ideal for a quiet drink, a business meeting, or when you want to impress someone.
Insider Tip: This is a great place to try a high-quality G&T or a classic Martini. The service is generally excellent, and they often have a more curated selection of drinks compared to larger venues.
Location: 13-15 Dean St, Reading RG1 7RT
Beyond the Bars: Making the Most of Your Reading Rooftop Experience
Visiting Reading’s rooftop bars is more than just about the drinks; it’s about the experience. Here are a few tips to ensure you have a fantastic time:
Planning Your Visit
- Check Opening Times: Rooftop bars are often seasonal and weather-dependent. Always check their website or social media for the latest opening hours and any specific weather-related closures.
- Book Ahead: Especially for popular spots on weekend evenings, booking a table is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Dress Code: While most rooftop bars in Reading are casual, some, like the Dean Street Townhouse, might have a slightly more formal dress code. When in doubt, smart casual is usually a safe bet.
Embracing the Local Vibe
- Explore the Surrounding Area: Many of these bars are located in vibrant parts of Reading. Take some time before or after your drinks to explore the nearby shops, pubs, and attractions. For example, The Oracle shopping centre is just a short walk from The Botanist and Revolution.
- Try Local Brews: While cocktails are often the star, don’t forget to ask about local craft beers or ciders if available. Reading has a growing craft beer scene, and some bars might feature local options. If you’re interested in the craft beer scene, checking out resources like dropt.beer can give you insights into what’s trending and available.
- Consider Transport: Reading town centre is well-served by public transport. If you plan on enjoying a few drinks, consider taking a train or bus, or arranging for a taxi. Reading Station is conveniently located.
Discovering More with Dropt.beer
For those who are passionate about discovering new drinks, understanding trends, and finding the best beverages, resources like dropt.beer are invaluable. You can explore their shop at dropt.beer/shop/ for curated selections, and their insights section at dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/ offers a wealth of information on everything from brewery spotlights to tasting notes. It’s a great way to enhance your appreciation for what you’re drinking, whether you’re at a rooftop bar or enjoying a drink at home.
The Future of Reading’s Rooftops
As Reading continues to grow and develop, I’m excited to see what new rooftop experiences emerge. The demand for unique, elevated social spaces is clear, and I have a feeling more venues will be looking to the skies for their next great offering. For now, these spots provide a fantastic way to see our wonderful town from a different perspective, enjoy expertly crafted drinks, and create lasting memories.
So next time you’re looking for a place to unwind, celebrate, or simply enjoy a beautiful evening, head up, up, and away to one of Reading’s brilliant rooftop bars. Cheers!
