Discovering Reading’s Vibrant Bar Scene
Hello fellow Reading explorers! As your resident local guide, I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through the heart of our town’s buzzing nightlife. Reading, often celebrated for its rich history and its iconic music festival, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and exciting bar scene. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a cozy spot to unwind after a day exploring the Thames, Reading has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of my absolute favorite watering holes!
Craft Beer Havens: For the Hop Heads
Reading has truly embraced the craft beer revolution, and thankfully, there are some fantastic establishments dedicated to showcasing the best brews. If you’re serious about your pints, these are the places to be:
The Ale House
Nestled in the heart of Reading, The Ale House is a cornerstone of the local craft beer community. It’s a no-frills, back-to-basics pub that prioritizes quality over pretension. You’ll find an ever-changing selection of real ales and craft beers on tap, sourced from both local breweries and further afield. The atmosphere is always friendly and convivial, making it the perfect place to strike up a conversation with fellow beer lovers. Their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations, and they often have tasting notes available. Keep an eye on their social media for special events and tap takeovers.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss their weekly pub quiz – it’s a Reading institution and a great way to experience the local vibe. They’re usually located at 18 Castle Street, Reading RG1 7RU.
Frog & WEDGE
Another gem for craft beer enthusiasts, Frog & WEDGE offers a more contemporary feel while maintaining that essential pub spirit. They pride themselves on a curated selection of craft beers, often featuring innovative and exciting brews. The interior is stylish yet comfortable, with plenty of space to gather with friends. They also have a decent selection of bottled and canned beers, perfect for those who want to explore further. Their commitment to quality is evident in every pint poured.
Location: You can usually find them at 172-176 Friar Street, Reading RG1 1EH.
The Sunken Ship
This unique pub has a nautical theme and a fantastic selection of craft beers, ciders, and gins. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, often frequented by locals in the know. The atmosphere is relaxed and quirky, with maritime memorabilia adorning the walls. They often have some lesser-known but excellent craft beers on tap that you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a great spot for a more intimate drinking experience.
Address: Look for them at 132-134 London Road, Reading RG1 5DE.
Cocktail Creations: Shaken, Stirred, and Savored
If cocktails are more your speed, Reading offers some sophisticated spots where skilled mixologists craft delicious concoctions. Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized!
Purple Turtle
A Reading institution, Purple Turtle is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and, crucially, its extensive cocktail menu. It’s a place that manages to be both a buzzing late-night venue and a sophisticated cocktail bar. They have a huge range of spirits, and their bartenders are adept at creating everything from classic martinis to inventive signature drinks. The music is usually lively, adding to the energetic vibe. It’s a fantastic spot for a pre-club drink or a full night of sipping.
Location: Find them at 9 Gun Street, Reading RG1 2DE.
Matchbox
Matchbox offers a more intimate and chic cocktail experience. Known for its stylish decor and expertly crafted drinks, it’s the perfect place for a date night or a sophisticated catch-up with friends. Their cocktail list is thoughtfully put together, with a focus on quality ingredients and creative presentation. The bartenders are passionate about their craft and are happy to guide you through the menu or even create a bespoke drink based on your preferences. It’s a place where the ambiance is as important as the drink.
Address: They are typically located at 30A Gun Street, Reading RG1 2HU.
Smokin’ Joe’s
While perhaps more known for its food, Smokin’ Joe’s also serves up some seriously impressive cocktails. If you’re looking for a place that combines great food with expertly made drinks, this is a strong contender. Their cocktail menu features both classics and some unique twists, all prepared with flair. It’s a lively and fun environment, making it a great choice for groups.
Location: You can find them at 32-34 Cross Street, Reading RG1 1RU.
Wine Bars and Sophisticated Sips
For those who prefer a glass of wine or a more relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere, Reading has some excellent options.
Vino Bar
Vino Bar is exactly what it says on the tin – a dedicated wine bar. They boast an impressive and diverse wine list, featuring bottles from all over the world, as well as a curated selection of wines by the glass. The ambiance is elegant and relaxed, making it ideal for a quiet evening. Their staff are knowledgeable about wine and can help you choose the perfect pairing for your palate. They also often serve small plates and charcuterie, perfect for sharing.
Address: Look for them on Market Place, Reading RG1 2DG.
Live Music Venues with Great Bars
Reading has a legendary music scene, and many of its live music venues also feature fantastic bars, making them ideal for a night out combining great tunes and great drinks.
The Face Bar
A legendary independent music venue in Reading, The Face Bar is a must-visit for anyone who loves live music. It hosts a wide range of gigs, from local bands to touring artists, across various genres. The bar itself is well-stocked, offering a good selection of beers, ciders, and spirits. The atmosphere is always electric when there’s a gig on, and it’s a great place to discover new music while enjoying a drink. It’s a true rock and roll spirit lives here.
Location: Typically found at 17-19 Chatham Street, Reading RG1 7NP.
Oakford Social Club
The Oakford Social Club is another fantastic venue that blends live music, DJ sets, and a great bar atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for locals, offering a diverse programme of events. The bar serves a good range of drinks, and the vibe is always friendly and welcoming. It’s a great place to dance the night away or simply enjoy a few drinks while soaking in the music.
Address: You can find them at 53-55 Wokingham Road, Reading RG6 1HL.
Something a Little Different: Unique Bar Experiences
Looking for something beyond the usual pub or cocktail bar? Reading has a few unique spots that offer a different kind of experience.
For the Beer Enthusiast: Dropt.beer
For those who truly want to explore the cutting edge of craft beer and brewing, you absolutely must check out Dropt.beer. While not a traditional ‘bar’ in the sense of a walk-in establishment, Dropt.beer is a revolutionary online platform dedicated to the craft beer community. They offer an incredible selection of beers from independent breweries, which you can often have delivered directly to your door. They also provide in-depth articles, interviews, and insights into the brewing world through their blog. If you’re a serious beer lover looking to discover new brews and learn more about the industry, their shop is a treasure trove. It’s the future of how we discover and enjoy craft beer.
Pubs with Great Food and Drink
Sometimes, you just want a great pub experience that also offers delicious food. Reading has plenty of these too!
The Fox & Hounds
A classic British pub experience awaits at The Fox & Hounds. They offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a good selection of real ales and a menu featuring hearty pub classics. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a relaxed Sunday roast or a comforting meal with your pint. The interiors are often traditional, with wooden beams and a cozy fireplace – perfect for those colder months.
Location: You’ll often find them in Caversham, a lovely area just across the river from Reading town centre.
The Old Swan (The Swan Inn)
The Old Swan, often referred to as The Swan Inn, is a historic pub that has been serving the Reading community for years. It offers a traditional pub feel with a good range of beers and a menu of classic British fare. It’s a reliable choice for a relaxed drink and a meal, especially if you appreciate a pub with a bit of character and history.
Address: Located in the Old Town area of Reading.
Practical Tips for Your Reading Bar Crawl
- Getting Around: Reading town centre is very walkable, so you can easily hop between many of these bars on foot. For areas further out, local buses are frequent and reliable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
- Opening Times: While most bars stay open late, especially on weekends, it’s always a good idea to check their individual opening hours online, particularly if you’re planning a visit on a weeknight or for a specific event.
- Booking: For popular cocktail bars or during peak times, especially for larger groups, consider booking a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Local Events: Keep an eye on local listings and the bars’ own social media channels for special events, tasting nights, live music, and happy hours.
- Embrace the Local: Don’t be afraid to ask the bar staff for recommendations. They are passionate about their drinks and often have the inside scoop on what’s new and exciting.
Conclusion
Reading’s bar scene is rich, varied, and constantly evolving. From the dedicated craft beer temples to the sophisticated cocktail lounges and the lively music venues, there’s a perfect spot for every mood and every taste. I hope this guide helps you discover some of the best bars Reading has to offer. So, grab your friends, pick a spot, and let’s raise a glass to this fantastic town! Cheers!
