LGBTQ+ in Reading

Reading is an open and inclusive place to live, visit and enjoy, welcoming people from all backgrounds, beliefs and cultures. The LGBT+ scene in Reading has been growing over the last few years, with a selection of festivals, events and venues fully supportive of the LGBT+ community in the town, as well as a number of social groups, youth clubs and wellbeing organisations dedicated to providing support and awareness for all members of the LGBT+ spectrum.

LGBT+ Festivals and Events

Reading’s LGBT+ events celebrate pride, culture and community, bringing colour and energy to the town’s annual events calendar.

Reading Pride

Reading Pride runs the Love Unites festival, which takes place on the first weekend after the August bank holiday (typically the first Saturday in September) at Kings Meadow, Reading. The annual parade and festival features a full line-up of live entertainment, food and drink stalls, and a dedicated family area.

MyUmbrella

MyUmbrella is a project run by Reading Pride that raises awareness of lesser-known identities across the sexuality, gender and romantic spectrums, collectively known as LGBT+.

LGBT+ Friendly Venues

Reading’s inclusive venues range from lively nightlife spots to creative and active spaces, offering welcoming places for everyone to eat, drink, meet and explore.

The Oakford Social Club

Oakford Social Club is one of Reading’s most well-known LGBT+ friendly venues. Located on Blagrave Street close to Reading Station, it offers a relaxed setting for drinks, food and live entertainment, including regular monthly drag nights and queer-friendly events.

The Castle Tap

The Castle Tap is a popular pub and community hub with a strong following among LGBTQ+ locals, known for its welcoming atmosphere and inclusive spirit.

The Purple Turtle

The Purple Turtle is an alternative nightlife staple with a long-standing reputation as one of Reading’s most inclusive venues, attracting a diverse and open-minded crowd.

Climbing Hangar Reading

The Climbing Hangar Reading hosts regular Fri-Gay sessions, bringing together the LGBTQ+ community in a fun, active and social environment.

Rising Sun Arts Centre

Rising Sun Arts Centre runs regular queer socials for adults aged 18+, alongside creative and community-led events in an arts-focused setting.

Reading Biscuit Factory

Reading Biscuit Factory hosts drag nights and a wide range of LGBTQ+ inclusive workshops, including burlesque, cabaret, creative writing and theatre.

LGBT+ Groups and Support

From choirs to wellbeing services, Reading’s LGBTQ+ groups offer a strong and welcoming community for all ages.

Thames Valley Gay Chorus (TVGC)

Thames Valley Gay Chorus is a choir for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people across the Thames Valley who enjoy singing. Based in Reading, they perform throughout the region.

Thames Valley Positive Support

Thames Valley Positive Support provides vital support for people living with HIV across Berkshire. It is the only HIV charity in the county, offering prevention, testing and post-diagnosis support.

University of Reading LGBT+ Society

LGBT+ Society is a student-led group at the University of Reading. It is inclusive of all sexual and gender minorities, as well as allies.

No5 Young People

No5 Young People is a Reading-based charity offering confidential listening and counselling services for young people aged 11–25 across Reading and the wider RG postcode area.

ReachOUT Youth Club

ReachOUT Youth Club is a safe, supportive space for LGBTQ+ young people aged 13–18. Held every other week, it offers activities, socialising and peer support in a welcoming environment.