In the heart of the Royal County of Berkshire lies Reading, a town where history whispers from every corner and modernity hums along its bustling streets. It’s a place where the past and present dance in harmony, offering visitors a tapestry of experiences – from the ruins of Reading Abbey, a testament to medieval grandeur, to the contemporary allure of The Oracle, a shopper’s paradise.
Whether you’re in town visiting the best shops in Reading or trying out some of the top things to do in, this article will help you find the best places to stay in Reading for a night (or three), where the lodgings here are as diverse as the town’s own story.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a history buff seeking a quaint, character-filled inn, a business traveller in need of sleek, modern convenience, or a leisure seeker looking for a luxurious retreat, Reading’s hotels cater to every narrative.
As we dive into the very best hotels in Reading, prepare to be enchanted by the variety and quality each one offers. From the opulent to the understated, the historic to the avant-garde, these hotels are not just places to stay; they are destinations in their own right, each with a unique story to tell.
Ready? Let’s jump straight into the crème de la crème of Reading’s accommodations, where every hotel is a new chapter in your travel diary, waiting to be written.
The Top 10 Hotels in Reading
10. Crowne Plaza Reading, an IHG Hotel
(Caversham Bridge Richfield Avenue Richfield Avenue, Reading RG1 8BD England)
Rating: 4 / 5.0 from 1561 reviews | #10 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Spa break with the wife”
This 4-star hotel in the heart of Reading on the banks of the River Thames provides a tranquil venue easily accessible from the M4, London Heathrow Airport, and London Paddington Station. The hotel offers 200 parking spaces, a spa, and modern British cuisine at the Acqua Restaurant.
9. Premier Inn Reading Central hotel
(Letcombe Street, Reading RG1 2HN England)
Rating: 4 / 5.0 from 1560 reviews | #9 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Central location ideal base”
Located in the heart of the town centre, close to Thames Valley Park, Reading University, and Royal Berkshire Hospital. The hotel offers easy access to shopping at the Oracle and events at the Hexagon.
8. Premier Inn Reading (Caversham Bridge) hotel
(Richfield Avenue, Reading RG1 8EQ England)
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 from 947 reviews | #8 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Great service and ambience. Family friendly”
Situated in leafy Caversham, next to the River Thames and a ten-minute walk from Reading town centre. Ideal for shopping at the Oracle and visiting nearby attractions like Legoland and Thorpe Park.
7. Hilton Reading
(Lundy House Drake Way, Reading RG2 0GQ England)
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 from 2422 reviews | #7 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Fabulous stay at Hilton Reading”
A contemporary hotel offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Located near Reading’s historical city centre, the River Thames, and The Oracle shopping centre. Features include a health club, indoor swimming pool, and sauna.
6. voco Reading, an IHG Hotel
(Select Car Leasing Stadium Junction 11 M4, Reading RG2 0FL England)
Rating: 4 / 5.0 from 1195 reviews | #6 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Relaxing Stay”
Adjacent to Reading Stadium, this modern hotel offers spacious guest rooms, leisure facilities with a swimming pool, sauna, and gym. The hotel is ideal for football fans, shoppers, and visitors to nearby attractions like Legoland or Windsor Castle.
5. 100 Kings Road by House of Fisher
(100 Kings Road, Reading RG1 3BY England)
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 from 166 reviews | #5 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Home away from home”
An aparthotel offering the perfect blend of home comfort and hotel luxury. Located in the heart of Reading, close to the Oracle shopping centre and Reading train station. Ideal for longer stays with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas.
4. Novotel Reading Centre
(25B Friar Street, Reading RG1 1DP England)
Rating: 4 / 5.0 from 1856 reviews | #4 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Very good!”
Located in Reading town centre, 2 minutes from the train station. The hotel offers a relaxing environment with a heated indoor pool, sauna, and fitness centre. Close to the Oracle shopping centre and the University of Reading.
3. Malmaison Reading
(18-20 Station Road, Reading RG1 1JX England)
Rating: 4 / 5.0 from 1487 reviews | #3 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Chic and comfortable”
Housed in the oldest surviving railway hotel in the world, this boutique hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury. It’s a stone’s throw from Reading railway station, making it an ideal base for exploring the Thames Valley.
2. Beech House Hotel
(60 Bath Road, Reading RG30 2AY England)
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 from 363 reviews | #2 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “Charming and Comfortable”
The Beech House Hotel in Reading is a charming Victorian property, offering a blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort. This boutique hotel, set in a quiet residential area, is renowned for its warm, personalized service and beautifully decorated rooms. Guests can enjoy a peaceful garden, an inviting lounge, and a hearty breakfast. Its location provides easy access to Reading’s town centre and major transport links, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking a tranquil retreat in the city.
1. The Forbury Roseate
(26 The Forbury, Reading RG1 3EJ England)
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 from 1040 reviews | #1 of 34 hotels in Reading
Most recent recommendation: “A touch of class”
The Forbury Roseate, often regarded as the crown jewel of Reading’s hotels, exudes luxury and sophistication. Nestled in the city centre, it’s a sanctuary of elegance with its plush rooms, exquisite dining, and a tranquil library. Perfect for those seeking an indulgent stay in Reading.
Beyond the Stay – Exploring Reading
Reading is not just about luxurious stays and comfortable beds; it’s a gateway to a plethora of experiences. Each of these top hotels offers more than just a place to rest; they are stepping stones to the rich tapestry of activities and attractions that Reading boasts.
Stroll along the River Thames, which meanders gracefully near several of these hotels, offering serene walks and picturesque views. Dive into history at the Reading Museum or the majestic ruins of Reading Abbey, both within easy reach of these central accommodations. For the shopping enthusiasts, the Oracle Shopping Centre, a modern retail haven, is just a stone’s throw away from many of these hotels, blending high-street brands with riverside dining.
Reading’s strategic location also makes it a perfect hub for exploring the broader UK. With Reading’s well-connected railway station, a short walk from many of these hotels, London, Oxford, and the charming countryside of the Thames Valley are just a train ride away. This connectivity not only enhances the appeal of staying in Reading but also adds a layer of convenience for travellers looking to explore the region.
Conclusion:
The top hotels in Reading each tell a different story, a narrative woven into the fabric of this historic yet modern town. They are more than just places to stay; they are experiences in themselves, enhancing every moment of your visit. From the luxurious embrace of The Forbury Roseate to the practical elegance of the Premier Inns, each hotel offers a unique window into the soul of Reading.
Choosing the right hotel in Reading is not just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about selecting a companion for your journey, one that complements and enriches your travel experience. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a bit of both, these top hotels ensure that your stay in Reading is not just memorable, but also a seamless part of your adventure in this charming English town.
