Between the Chilterns and the Thames, closer to everything than you think
Reading sits in a sweet spot. Fast trains to London, the Thames on one side, the Chilterns on the other. It doesn't have the glamour of some southern cities but the family infrastructure is solid. Caversham across the river has a village feel despite being part of Reading. Prospect Park is good, the Oracle riverside area in the centre is pushchair-friendly, and you're a short drive from proper countryside.
Prospect Park is the most-used family spot. Big playground, a bandstand area, and a miniature railway that runs on weekends. Caversham Court Gardens along the Thames is a calmer option for a pushchair walk. The museum in town is free and runs toddler activities. Dinton Pastures just outside Reading has lakes, nature trails, and a good playground. The Rivermead Leisure Centre has a baby pool. Reading's children's centres run a decent range of free sessions, and there are active toddler group networks in Tilehurst, Earley, and Woodley.
Places Families Go in Reading
Prospect Park
Big park with a popular playground, miniature railway, and views over the town. The cafe does a decent coffee.
Dinton Pastures Country Park
Lakes and nature trails just outside Reading. The adventure playground is good, and there's a cafe by the water.
Caversham Court Gardens
Riverside gardens with Thames views. Small, pretty, and ideal for a calm outing with a baby or a gentle toddler wander.
Beale Wildlife Park
Small zoo and park near Pangbourne with lemurs, meerkats, and a narrow gauge railway. A proper half-day out.
Areas We'll Cover in Reading
Reading is practical rather than flashy. Parents here are well-connected through local networks and there's a pragmatic, get-on-with-it attitude. The diversity of the town means baby groups often reflect a broad mix of backgrounds.
Finding Children's Activities in Reading
Parents in Reading search for things like baby groups in Reading, toddler classes Reading, children's activities Reading, things to do with kids in Caversham. Sproggo is being built to answer all of those searches. Free toddler groups, paid baby classes, weekend family days out, weekday sessions for maternity leave. It all goes on Sproggo, tailored to what your family actually wants.