18 Date Ideas in Reading to Make the Most of Summer

31st July 2025

There’s no shortage of ways to make time together special in Reading. Whether you're after something relaxed, outdoorsy or offbeat, the town offers a real mix of entertainment and natural beauty. With longer evenings and sunny weekends to play with, it’s the perfect excuse to try something new, revisit local favourites and enjoy exploring!

Retro Romance at the Arcade

For couples who love a bit of old-school fun, dive into the arcade zone at Urban Fun or challenge each other to a game of pool. Nothing says ‘classic date’ like winning a toy to remember the day. Cheesy, but in the best way.

Gelato & Riverside Walk

End your evening with something sweet! Grab gelato from Creams or Treatz in town, then head out for a gentle walk along the river, through the Abbey Ruins or to see the Maiwand Lion at Forbury Gardens.

Picnic in the Park

Sometimes simple is perfect. Pack up a blanket, a basket of your favourite snacks, and head to one of Reading’s lush green spaces. Forbury Gardens, Christchurch Meadows, or Caversham Court Gardens all offer ideal picnic spots close to the town centre. Looking for more inspo? We’ve got a whole page of beautiful picnic spots here.

Date Night with an Edge: Axe Throwing

If you’re bored of basic dates, try something with a little bite. Boom Battle Bar lets you channel your inner Viking with axe throwing. It’s surprisingly satisfying and seriously fun. Throw in some beer pong or shuffleboard, and you’ve got a full night of action.

Paddleboard on the Thames

If you and your date are up for a splash of adventure, take your paddleboards and head onto the Thames! It’s a refreshing way to cool down, bond and maybe even lovingly push the other into the water.

Catch a Comedy Show

If you’re looking for a date night that’s anything but serious, a comedy night at The Hexagon is the perfect pick. With a year-round lineup of stand-up comedians, from big-name acts to rising stars, it’s a great way to ditch small talk and share some genuine laughs.

Sunset Drinks at Thames Lido

Thames Lido is an oasis in the heart of Reading. Think classy cocktails, a poolside view and tapas. Perfect for golden hour, experience the sunset outdoors by the pool and feel like you’re on holiday without leaving town.

Outdoor Cinema Nights: Movies Under the Stars

There’s something inherently romantic about watching a film outdoors, under the stars. This summer, you’ve got two big movie nights coming to Reading Abbey Ruins at the end of August, including The Greatest Showman and Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix. Bring your blanket and snacks and settle in for an unforgettable evening surrounded by centuries-old walls.

A little further out, Dinton Pastures nearby in Wokingham, is also hosting lots of showings, from Mamma Mia to Wicked and Bohemian Rhapsody too. Green Park also has dates announced – keep your eyes peeled for the film announcements!

© National Trust Images, James Dobson

Day Trip to Basildon Park

Just a short drive from Reading, Basildon Park offers gardens, trails and grandeur. It’s ideal for a day of strolling, chatting and exploring. Go visit the beautiful Helios installation from 15-18 and 22-25 August and see if you can spot any filming locations from Downton Abbey or Pride and Prejudice whilst you’re there.

Splash Out at Lagoona Park

For something playful and refreshing, head to Lagoona Park, Reading’s own waterpark on the River Thames. With inflatable obstacles, jumping platforms, climbing walls and giant slides, it’s ideal for couples who want to swap romantic strolls for adrenaline-fuelled fun and a great way to awaken your inner child.

Putt & Flirt at Crazy Golf

Spinners serves up good food, drinks and a garden-themed crazy golf course in the heart of town. It’s perfect for couples who want to break the ice (or just show off their putting skills!).

Scavenger Hunt Through Reading

Swap dinner and a movie for something a little more unexpected: a self-guided scavenger hunt through the streets of Reading. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore the city together as you solve clues, follow a trail and uncovering quirky landmarks and hidden corners along the way.

Cinema Date

Some date ideas never go out of style, and a night at the cinema is one of them. Reading has a solid mix of cinemas to suit every mood: the cosy, indie-friendly Reading Biscuit Factory is perfect for post-film chats over drinks, while Vue at The Oracle offers all the big-screen, big-sound drama you’d expect. Showcase in Winnersh gives you that extra legroom to lay back and cuddle up.

Riverside Dinner

There’s something effortlessly romantic about dining beside the water, especially on a warm summer evening. Oracle Riverside offers a range of restaurants with outdoor seating, perfect for couples who want a relaxed atmosphere without straying far from the town centre. Choose from colourful cocktails and Latin American flavours at Las Iguanas, vibrant Middle Eastern dishes at Comptoir Libanais, or indulge in a classic steak dinner at Miller & Carter.

Live Music

There’s always music in the air in Reading during summer. From buskers in town to festivals and gigs at Purple Turtle, Oakford Social Club or The Hexagon, there’s something for every vibe, whether you’re into rock, indie, acoustic or jazz.

Cruise Tour along the Thames

Like the idea of coasting down the Thames but prefer to let the water do the work? Hop aboard a gentle cruise. With views of the riverside scenery and a peaceful pace, it’s one of the most relaxing and romantic ways to spend a sunny afternoon or evening.

Strike up some fun with Bowling

A classic for a reason, bowling at Hollywood Bowl in The Oracle mixes nostalgia with just the right amount of competition. Grab drinks, hit the lanes and maybe even win a few playful bets. There's also an arcade and bar to keep the night going.

Bike Ride to Mapledurham Lock

Up for a scenic cycle? Rent or dust off your bikes and head west out of Reading along the river to Mapledurham Lock. Stop off at a riverside pub like The Cunning Man for a well-earned drink or lunch. A relaxed, rewarding and outdoorsy day date.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back afternoon or a spontaneous night out, Summer in Reading is full of date potential, you just have to know where to look. Check out our other pages for pubs and bars, restaurants and things to do in Reading.