The city centre is the embodiment of over a thousand years of history combined successfully with all the assets of a modern, vibrant city. The Victorian red-brick buildings for which the city is famous, nestle besides beautiful medieval churches, famous old coaching inns sit opposite high-tech office developments - there is a surprise around every corner. And over the last few years Reading has pursued a policy of encouraging more residential development in the centre - bringing a new cosmopolitan feel to the lively streets, almost 24 hours a day.

Much of this recent success story is thanks to The Oracle Shopping and Leisure Complex. Opened in 1999, this huge city centre development has already welcomed over 75,000,000 visitors. The centre occupies a central site, straddling the banks of the River Kennet, where the Courage Brewery used to stand. Thanks to The Oracle and the follow-on development it has encouraged throughout the city centre, Reading is now one of the top ten shopping destinations in the country. The choice and quality of our nightlife has also become legendary - whatever your age and tastes.

To know more about Reading, please have a look to the Reading Borough Council website

To help you find your way around

Click on the map which will take you to www.visitmap.com

Other useful map sites you may like to use are:
www.multimap.co.uk
www.streetmap.co.uk