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Christchurch Meadows - Reading

Updated: Sep 19

Address: Hills Meadow Car Park, George St, Reading RG4 8DH

Christchurch Meadows viewed from the bridge

Location

Located on the north bank of the Thames in the heart of Reading, Christchurch Meadows is an inviting green space, featuring shaded trees that are perfect for warm summer days.


It features play facilities for children and views over the river, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.


What's There?

Christchurch Meadows riverside view

At Christchurch Meadows, you will find:

  • River views

  • Picnic area

  • Children’s play area

  • Whittington's Tea Barge

  • Fishing

  • Tennis courts

  • Toilets

  • Changing rooms

  • Cycling


Whittington's Tea Barge

This quirky on-the-water café is open from March until the Sunday before Christmas.

Friday through Sunday: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. They serve a variety of teas and coffees, freshly made sandwiches, scones, and a selection of cooked options.


For more info: Click Here.


View Island

View Island is located at the eastern end of the meadows, just a short distance from the car park. It is a quiet space, with seating areas and a view of Caversham Weir. It also connects Christchurch Meadows with King's Meadows on the southern side of the Thames.


Throughout the island, visitors will find information boards about the hydroelectric power plant as well as the local wildlife. This includes a fish pass stream that winds through View Island.



Parking

Hills Meadow Car Park blue badge parking spaces

Hills Meadow Car Park is very spacious, offering nearly 300 parking spaces. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and includes numerous disabled parking spaces.

Stay up to

Price

2 hours

£3.50

5 hours

£6.50

24 hours

£11

Weekend – 3 hours

£3.10

Weekend – 6 hours

£5.10

Weekend – 24 hours

£10.00

Night Rate:

– Enter car park after 6.00pm

– Exit car park before 8.00am next day

£2.50

Payment method:

  • Cards and RingGo - location code 9471

  • Blue Badge holders park for free


Accessibility

Christchurch Meadows bridge

There are level paths throughout the meadows, allowing easy access for visitors using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters, as well as parents with pushchairs. Cycling is also permitted at this location, making it suitable for visitors who use e-bikes as mobility aids.


There is gentle sloped access from the car park down to the riverside path that runs the length of the meadows.

There are frequent benches along the main path, with the largest gaps being approximately 50 metres.


The accessible toilets, located next to the swimming pool and tennis courts, are roughly 150 metres from the car park.


Conclusion

Caversham War Memorial
Caversham War Memorial

In summary, Christchurch Meadows is an ideal spot for a relaxing family outing. With its charming café, children’s play facilities, and level paths with plenty of benches for easy access, this picturesque spot truly caters to visitors of all ages and abilities.


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