Forbury Gardens

Forbury Gardens is a beautiful Victorian town garden in Reading, located between the town centre and the historic 11th-century abbey ruins, close to Reading Station. Recently restored, these gardens offer a peaceful retreat, enclosed by a wall that shields them from the bustling town. The gardens feature a bandstand, where live music plays some weekends during the summer, and the iconic Maiwand Lion statue.

Although there are no dedicated children’s facilities, the gardens provide ample space for play, and a kiosk serves coffee, ice creams, and other snacks. Forbury Gardens has earned multiple awards, including the Green Flag Award for being welcoming and well-maintained. Notable features include Forbury Hill, accessible by wheelchair-friendly footpaths, and a short tunnel offering traffic-free access to Reading Abbey. The gardens also host various events, such as summer concerts, Reading Town Meal, and Reading Waterfest.