By supportberkshire.uk 
Moving to Reading with my wife and kids (Phd at UoR): Seeking Daily Life Tips
Hey everyone! My wife (31F) and I (30M) along with our two-year-old and two-month-old kids are relocating to Reading for the next 3 to 5 years. We are originally from Costa Rica but have lived in Madrid, Zug, and Nicaragua.
We have learned to value the insider knowledge and local tips about day-to-day life in new places. We are looking for any hidden gems in Reading, such as cool little shops, affordable grocery stores, fun parks/play areas, activities, and more.
Any recommendations are welcome – whether it’s your favorite shop for something specific, bike routes, best fruits in town, exciting activities, or advice on saving money through membership programs or yearly public transport cards.
We will be moving to a place on Woodly soon, so any insights on that area would be greatly appreciated!
Congratulations on your upcoming move to Reading! It’s great to hear that you value local tips and are looking for ways to make your daily life in the town easier and more enjoyable. Here are some lesser-known tips and recommendations for you and your family:
Cool Little Shops: Reading is home to some unique and charming independent shops that are worth exploring. Check out The Grumpy Goat for a fantastic selection of craft beers and cheeses, or visit The Handmade Craft Company for handmade gifts and accessories.
Cheap Groceries: For affordable groceries, you can try shopping at Lidl or Aldi, where you can find a wide range of products at budget-friendly prices. Additionally, the Reading Farmer’s Market is a great place to buy fresh, local produce at reasonable prices.
Cool Parks/Play Areas: For a fun day out with your kids, make sure to visit Forbury Gardens, a beautiful park in the heart of Reading with a play area for children. If you’re up for a short drive, Dinton Pastures Country Park is a great place for picnics, walks, and wildlife spotting.
Activities: Reading offers a variety of activities for families, including the Reading Festival in August, which features live music, comedy, and food stalls. The Museum of English Rural Life is another must-visit for a fun and educational day out.
Woodley Area: Woodley is a lovely suburb of Reading, known for its family-friendly vibe and green spaces. You can enjoy walks in Woodley Memorial Park and shopping at Woodley Precinct. The area has good schools and is well-connected to the town center by bus.
Savings Tips: Consider investing in a Reading Buses Key Card for discounted bus travel around the town. You can also look into local library memberships for free access to books, DVDs, and online resources.
Overall, Reading is a vibrant and diverse town with plenty to offer for families. By exploring the local shops, parks, and activities, you’re sure to make the most of your time there. Best of luck with your move and enjoy your time in Reading!
Welcome to Reading! As a family-oriented town, you’ll find plenty of hidden gems to explore. Here are a few tips and recommendations to help you settle in and make the most of your time here:
1. **Local Parks**: Don’t miss **Forbury Gardens**, which is a lovely park for a stroll and has a great playground for your little ones. **Prospect Park** is another family favorite, especially for picnics and outdoor activities.
2. **Children’s Activities**: The **Reading Museum and Town Hall** often hosts family-friendly events and exhibitions. Check their calendar for any special activities geared towards young children.
3. **Grocery Stores**: For affordable groceries, **Aldi** and **Lidl** are popular choices among locals and can help you save. If you’re looking for fresh and local produce, the **Reading Farmers’ Market** on every Saturday is an excellent spot to visit.
4. **Child-Friendly Cafés**: Try out **The Workhouse**, a charming café with a play area for kids, or **Pump House Heritage Arts Centre** which offers a cozy atmosphere and often features family-friendly events.
5. **Membership Savings**: Consider getting a **Thames Valley Travel Card** for public transport – it can significantly cut down on travel costs if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas as well.
6. **Cycling Routes**: The **Thames Path**, running along the river, offers beautiful cycling routes suitable for families.
Welcome to Reading! It’s exciting to see your family embark on this new adventure. As someone who’s spent considerable time in the area, I’d love to share a few tips to help you settle in smoothly.
Firstly, the **Forbury Gardens** is a fantastic park perfect for your little ones. It has beautiful gardens and plenty of space for children to run around. Nearby, you’ll find the **Reading Museum**, which often hosts family-friendly events and exhibits that can be educational and fun.
For grocery shopping, **Aldi** and **Lidl** are excellent choices for affordability and have good selections, especially for fresh produce. If you’re looking for more local produce, make sure to check out the **Reading Farmers’ Market** held weekly; it’s a great way to support local vendors and enjoy fresh fruits and artisanal goods.
In terms of activities, the **Reading Abbey Ruins** are worth a visit—not only do they provide a glimpse into the area’s history, but the grounds are also a lovely place for a family picnic. Additionally, the **River Thames** offers great family-friendly walking and cycling paths, so bringing along a bike or a stroller can enhance your experience.
As for your inquiries concerning transport, consider applying for the **Reading Buses Smart card** for discounted fares—it’s very convenient for travel within the city and beyond, especially with little ones in tow.
Lastly, the Woodly area has great community vibes; don’t hesitate to explore local cafes and parks there, as