Reading Walks Festival

Reading Walks Festival is back for another year! Running from 9 - 17 May, this year's programme is more diverse than ever and includes over 40 walks. This festival is as much about telling the stories of Reading as walking for its own pleasure, so you don't need to be a seasoned hiker to take part and you’ll find that our volunteer guides have lots to share with you along the way.

Reading has 1000 years of history to share, from a centre of medieval religion to Victorian industrial powerhouse – the stories live on in our urban townscape. And, with the Thames and Kennet & Avon Canal flowing through the town, Reading is home to picturesque waterside walks, surprising green spaces and easy access to the surrounding countryside in the Chilterns, north Hampshire and West Berkshire.

There are loads of walk options this year so you can choose anything from a short wander to a 2-day pilgrimage. Our handy grading system will let you know what type of walk each is (sociable, guided tour, family-friendly) as well as the distance, so you can choose the right walk for you.

Printed copies of the Reading Walks Festival 2026 booklet are available at libraries, Reading Museum, Reading Station, and other locations around town. Download a digital booklet of all the walks here.

Plan Your Visit

Most walks cost just £3 and start either at railway stations or on bus routes, making it easy to arrive by public transport. Bookings open on 6 March – secure your spot early, as many walks sell out fast! Visit readingwalksfestival.org to get tickets or What's On Reading to find our FAQs.

Join us in celebrating Reading’s heritage, nature and community – one step at a time!