10 facts about Reading you didn't know

Reading's secrets: 10 surprising facts you didn't know about this historic and vibrant town in Berkshire

Welcome to Reading, a town brimming with history, surprises, and quirks that will make you see it in a whole new light. Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, this vibrant town isn’t just about its famous music festival or shopping centres. Reading has a past that stretches back centuries, and it’s packed with fascinating stories and facts that even the locals might not know. Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into ten incredible facts about Reading that you absolutely didn’t see coming!

Did you know, for example, that Reading has a connection to one of the most famous kings of England? Or that it played a pivotal role in the history of one of the world’s most well-known poems? How about the fact that a certain prison here inspired a literary masterpiece? Let’s uncover the hidden gems and jaw-dropping trivia about this extraordinary town!

1. Henry I’s Final Resting Place

What if we told you that Reading was once a royal burial ground? Yes, you heard that right. King Henry I, the youngest son of William the Conqueror, chose Reading Abbey as his final resting place when he founded it in 1121. The Abbey was one of the largest and most influential monasteries in medieval England, and Henry was buried there in 1135. Although his exact burial spot remains a mystery, the ruins of Reading Abbey are still standing and are a must-see for history buffs. Imagine walking the same grounds where kings and queens once tread!

2. The World’s Oldest Known Round Song

Here’s one to hum along to: the oldest known round song in the world, *Sumer Is Icumen In*, was written in Reading Abbey around 1261. This medieval piece of music, also known as the Reading Rota, is a joyful celebration of summer and is still performed today. Who knew Reading was the birthplace of a musical gem that’s lasted over 750 years? Next time you hear it, you can proudly say, “That’s a Reading original!”

3. The Maiwand Lion: A Monumental Mystery

Standing tall in Forbury Gardens, the Maiwand Lion is an impressive bronze statue that commemorates the soldiers of the Berkshire Regiment who died in the Battle of Maiwand in 1880. But here’s the twist: the lion’s stance puzzled engineers and zoologists for years. Many believed its anatomy was incorrect and that such a pose would be impossible in real life. Turns out, the sculptor got it spot-on, and the lion remains a beloved symbol of Reading. How’s that for roaring success?

4. The Siege of Reading: A Civil War Turning Point

History buffs, this one’s for you. During the English Civil War in 1643, Reading was the site of a major siege. The town, held by Royalists, was besieged by Parliamentarian forces, leading to its surrender after two weeks of intense fighting. The siege left its mark on Reading, both physically and economically, and it played a crucial role in the outcome of the war. Imagine living in a town that was once the epicentre of such a pivotal event in English history!

5. Reading Prison and Oscar Wilde

What do Reading and Oscar Wilde have in common? The infamous Reading Gaol. Wilde was imprisoned here from 1895 to 1897, and his experience inspired the poem *The Ballad of Reading Gaol*. The prison’s bleak walls and Wilde’s poignant words have immortalised it in literary history. Although the prison closed in 2013, its cultural significance lives on. If walls could talk, these would recite poetry!

6. Biscuit Town: The Huntley & Palmers Legacy

Sweet tooth alert! Reading earned the nickname “Biscuit Town” thanks to Huntley & Palmers, a biscuit company founded here in 1822. By the Victorian era, it was the largest biscuit manufacturer in the world, and its products were shipped globally. From tea parties to royal banquets, Huntley & Palmers biscuits were a staple. Even today, their beautifully designed biscuit tins are collector’s items. Who’s craving a biscuit now?

7. The Only Battle of the Glorious Revolution

Here’s a claim to fame: Reading was the site of the only battle of the Glorious Revolution in 1688. The so-called Battle of Reading saw Dutch forces supporting William of Orange clash with James II’s Irish troops. The quick victory for the Dutch paved the way for William to take the throne. This skirmish may have been brief, but it defined the course of British history. Talk about being in the right place at the right time!

8. The George Hotel: A Coaching Inn with History

Step back in time at The George Hotel, one of Reading’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1423. This historic coaching inn was a vital stop on the route between London and the West Country. With its timber-framed structure and medieval charm, it’s a living piece of history. Fun fact: some claim it’s haunted, but we’ll leave that for you to decide. Fancy a stay?

9. The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology

Who says you need to go to Athens to admire Greek antiquities? The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology, housed at the University of Reading, boasts one of the most significant collections of Greek artefacts in the UK. From pottery to figurines, this hidden gem is a treasure trove of ancient history. It’s like stepping into a time machine, but without the jet lag!

10. Silicon Valley of the Thames

Did you know that Reading is a tech powerhouse? Often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of the Thames,” the town is home to major tech companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and Huawei. Its strategic location near London and its thriving business scene make it a hub for innovation. So, while Reading may be steeped in history, it’s also shaping the future. How’s that for a blend of old and new?

There you have it—ten fascinating facts about Reading that you probably didn’t know. From medieval abbeys to tech giants, this town is full of surprises. Next time you’re here, take a moment to appreciate its rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation. Trust us, there’s always more to discover in Reading!