Caversham Court Gardens
A historic riverside garden in Reading, where centuries of history meet peaceful Thames-side walks and open-air Shakespeare under the trees.
Tucked along the north bank of the River Thames in Reading, Caversham Court Gardens is a tranquil Grade II-listed riverside park with centuries of history. Once the grounds of a grand rectory, the gardens now offer a peaceful escape with formal lawns, flowerbeds, and shaded paths. It’s a favourite for quiet strolls, picnics, and the annual Reading Open Air Shakespeare festival. Entry is free, and the site is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk, making it an accessible green oasis in the heart of town.
A brief summary to Caversham Court
- Church Rd, Reading, RG4 7AD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit midweek or early in the day to enjoy the gardens at their quietest, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to read or relax.
- Bring cash for the seasonal tea kiosk and any special events like the Halloween trail, as card payments may not always be accepted.
- Check the Progress Theatre’s schedule if you’re in Reading in July; the open-air Shakespeare performances are a highlight and can draw a crowd.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames Path to Christchurch Meadows or King’s Meadow for a longer riverside stroll.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Reading town centre
From Reading town centre, cross Caversham Bridge and follow Church Road for about 10 minutes; the gardens are clearly signposted on the left-hand side, just past St Peter’s Church.
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By local bus
Several Reading Buses services stop near Caversham Bridge or on Church Road; from there it’s a short, level walk of 3–5 minutes to the gardens’ entrance.
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By bicycle
The Thames Path and local cycle routes provide direct access; there are cycle racks near the entrance, and the approach from Reading town centre is mostly flat and well-signed.
Caversham Court location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Caversham Court
A Riverside Retreat with Royal Roots
Caversham Court Gardens lies on the north bank of the River Thames in the Reading suburb of Caversham, a peaceful green space that feels worlds away from the nearby town centre. The site’s story begins in the 12th century, when the land around St Peter’s Church was given to the Augustinian Abbey of Notley. Over the centuries, the Old Rectory evolved into Caversham Court, a substantial Tudor house with timber-framed courtyards that once hosted some of Reading’s most prominent families. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the estate passed to Christ Church, Oxford, and the house and gardens were gradually reshaped by successive owners who valued both status and beauty.From Private Estate to Public Pleasure Ground
The formal gardens we see today were laid out between 1660 and 1681 by Thomas Loveday as a private retreat around the house. When Reading Corporation bought the property in 1933, plans to use part of the site for roads were abandoned in favour of preserving the gardens for the people of Reading. The house was demolished, but the historic layout and character of the grounds were retained, and Caversham Court opened to the public in Easter 1934. Now listed as Grade II in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, the gardens are a carefully managed blend of formal design and natural riverside planting, forming part of a chain of Thames-side open spaces that stretch through Reading.Life in the Gardens Today
Today, Caversham Court is a much-loved local park where visitors come to walk, relax, and enjoy the riverside setting. The gardens feature lawns, flowerbeds, herbaceous borders, and mature trees, with paths that lead down to the Thames and offer views across the water. A small tea kiosk, run by volunteers, is open on weekdays and weekends during the season, serving hot drinks and light refreshments. The site also hosts community events, including the popular Halloween trail with spooky, recycled-material displays, and the annual Reading Open Air Shakespeare festival, which moved here in 2011 and now draws theatre lovers to an open-air stage set among the trees.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Caversham Court has a distinctly English, slightly timeless quality: a place where history, nature, and community life quietly intertwine. It’s ideal for a gentle stroll, a riverside picnic, or simply sitting on a bench with a book, listening to birdsong and the murmur of the river. The gardens are especially pleasant in spring and summer, when the flowerbeds are in bloom and the trees provide dappled shade. Because it’s free and open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk (except Christmas Day), it’s easy to drop in for a short visit or spend a whole afternoon exploring the paths, the gazebo, and the old vaults when a gardener is on site. The Friends of Caversham Court Gardens play an active role in maintaining and promoting the site, ensuring that this historic green space remains a vibrant part of Reading’s civic life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holy Well of St Anne
0.3 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Edward VII Statue
1.2 km
A distinguished Edwardian bronze statue near Reading station, embodying regal history and artistic heritage from the early 20th century.
Hilton Reading
4.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience at Hilton Reading, your ideal base to explore the vibrant city and surrounding attractions.
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
20.1 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Virgin Experience Days
22.4 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
West Berkshire Museum
24.8 km
Discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of West Berkshire at the West Berkshire Museum, a must-visit tourist attraction in Newbury.
Snelsmore Common Country Park
25.1 km
Discover Snelsmore Common Country Park, a serene haven for hikers and wildlife lovers in Newbury, offering stunning landscapes and conservation efforts.
Sydney Camm Memorial
25.2 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
The Brocas
25.2 km
Explore The Brocas, a serene riverside park in Eton, perfect for picnics, walks, and breathtaking views of Windsor Castle.
River Thames Windsor
25.4 km
Discover the beauty and history of the River Thames in Windsor, a picturesque destination perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
Donnington Castle
25.4 km
Explore Donnington Castle, a historic gem in Newbury, where medieval architecture meets breathtaking landscapes, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
National Trust - Hughenden
25.6 km
Explore Hughenden Manor: A captivating National Trust property rich in history, stunning gardens, and Victorian charm in High Wycombe.
Windsor Wheel
25.6 km
Experience breathtaking views of Windsor and its iconic landmarks from the heights of the Royal Windsor Wheel, a must-visit tourist attraction in Alexandra Gardens.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
25.6 km
Explore the Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee, a stunning tribute to Queen Elizabeth II in the heart of Windsor, rich with royal history.
Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains
25.7 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains, a captivating landmark in Windsor celebrating Queen Elizabeth II.
Unmissable attractions to see
Knockout Escape Rooms
0.6 km
Engage in immersive escape room adventures with clever puzzles and lively hosts at Reading’s Knockout Escape Rooms on Milford Road.
Balmore Walk
0.7 km
Discover peaceful trails and stunning views at Balmore Walk, a serene green space overlooking Reading’s Caversham suburb.
Fanny's Antiques
0.9 km
Discover Reading’s eclectic antique gem offering vintage treasures, rustic furniture, and quirky curios at affordable prices with expert staff and free parking.
Reading Museum
1.4 km
Discover Berkshire’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and a historic setting in the heart of Reading.
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
1.4 km
Explore the stunning Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, a vivid embroidered narrative of the Norman Conquest, housed in Reading Museum’s historic gallery.
Escape Reading
1.5 km
Dive into immersive escape room adventures with thrilling puzzles and captivating stories at Escape Reading in the heart of Reading.
Broad Street Mall
1.5 km
A vibrant community-focused shopping and entertainment centre in Reading with diverse retail, dining, and leisure options.
Maiwand Lion
1.5 km
Explore the historic Maiwand Lion in Reading, a stunning monument commemorating the bravery of the 66th Berkshire Regiment amidst beautiful gardens.
King's Meadow
1.6 km
Peaceful riverside park in Reading offering green space, scenic views, and community events along the Thames.
Reading Abbey Ruins
1.7 km
Uncover the historical charm of Reading Abbey Ruins, a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the past amidst tranquil gardens.
The Armoured Heart sculpture
1.8 km
A powerful symbol of peace and hope against knife crime, crafted from reclaimed blades and community spirit in Reading.
Riverside Museum
2.1 km
A peaceful riverside museum in Reading, where Victorian waterworks meet seasonal art and the story of the Kennet River unfolds.
The Museum of English Rural Life
2.5 km
Explore England’s rural past through immersive galleries, archives, and a peaceful garden at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading.
Prospect Park
3.0 km
Reading’s largest green haven blending historic charm, diverse recreation, and natural beauty across 50 hectares of parkland.
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
3.8 km
Discover one of Britain’s finest collections of ancient Greek and Egyptian artefacts in a compact, scholarly museum at the University of Reading.
Essential places to dine
Miller & Carter Caversham
1.4 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks in a warm, inviting setting at Miller & Carter Caversham, Reading’s premier steakhouse destination.
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
1.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian hotspot in Reading blending bold flavors, crafted cocktails, and an industrial chic vibe for all-day dining and late-night fun.
Bill's Reading Restaurant
1.5 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
The Botanist Reading
1.6 km
Experience live music and delicious dining at The Botanist Reading - where every visit offers something new!
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
1.7 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
London Street Brasserie
1.8 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Miller & Carter Oracle
1.8 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Piwnica Restaurant
2.4 km
Savor authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in a charming Reading cellar restaurant.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
3.0 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
L'Ortolan
6.9 km
Experience the legacy of L'Ortolan, Reading’s iconic Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant housed in a historic 1840s building.
Caprice Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Reading East
7.2 km
Award-winning modern British and authentic Indian dining in a stylish setting at Crowne Plaza Reading East with a charming terrace and refined afternoon tea.
The Herd Restaurant
7.6 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
The Spring Inn
10.1 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Chalk
11.8 km
Chalk Restaurant offers warm, stylish dining with quality modern English cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in central Wokingham.
The Shurlock Inn
12.3 km
A charming 17th-century English gastropub blending historic charm with modern British cuisine and a lively bar scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dolly Rose Vintage Shed
0.6 km
Discover rare vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at Dolly Rose Vintage Shed, Caversham’s beloved boutique for sustainable, curated clothing.
Harris Arcade
1.4 km
Discover Reading’s elegant 1930s Art Deco arcade, home to quirky independent shops and a unique vintage shopping experience.
But Is It Art
1.4 km
Discover quirky, art-inspired gifts and British cultural charm at But Is It Art, Reading’s boutique for unique handcrafted treasures.
Sugarland uk
2.0 km
Discover a vibrant world of UK and American sweets at Sugarland UK, Reading’s beloved candy shop with pick-and-mix fun and next-day delivery.
Well Cool Stuff
4.3 km
Explore one-of-a-kind gifts and unique souvenirs at Well Cool Stuff, a charming gift shop in Reading that celebrates local culture.
B&M Store
6.2 km
Shop smart and save big at B&M Store in Reading, where unbeatable prices meet a wide selection of products for every traveler.
The Rhubarb Tree
7.6 km
Discover whimsical gifts, artisanal chocolates, and creative balloon art at The Rhubarb Tree, a charming boutique in Pangbourne’s historic High Street.
Englefield Stores & Tea Room
8.7 km
A charming village tea room and store in Englefield offering hearty meals, local produce, and a tranquil rural retreat near Reading.
Barbara's Antique and Bric a Brac Shop
12.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and quirky gifts at Barbara's Antique and Bric a Brac Shop, a charming gem in the heart of Goring village.
Inspiration
12.4 km
A charming gift shop in Goring Arcade offering traditional sweets, toys, stationery, pottery classes, and bespoke balloons for all occasions.
Yattendon Village Stores & Post Office
15.7 km
A welcoming village hub combining convenience shopping and postal services in the heart of Yattendon.
The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
16.1 km
Discover vintage treasures and artisan crafts in a charming antique barn nestled in Berkshire’s Moss End Garden Village.
Litten Tree Antiques
18.0 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
Peach's Stores
18.0 km
Discover the convenience of Peach's Stores, your go-to stop for snacks, beverages, and essentials in Reading, UK.
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
18.9 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Milk Bar Reading
1.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
Oakford Social Club
1.3 km
A lively Reading pub with retro charm, great food, diverse drinks, and an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere for every night out.
Valpy Street Bar & Bistro
1.4 km
Discover the cozy charm and unique basement ambiance of Valpy Street Bar & Bistro, a stylish spot for flavorful dining and lively evenings in Reading.
The Face Bar
1.4 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant live music and club scene at The Face Bar, where two rooms bring diverse sounds and late-night energy together.
Wild Lime
1.4 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
The Nag's Head
1.5 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Purple Turtle
1.6 km
A vibrant bar in Reading famed for its unique layered outdoor spaces and diverse drinks menu, perfect for lively social nights.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Reading
1.7 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
The White Eagle
1.7 km
A lively Polish pub in Reading offering hearty cuisine, a vibrant beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
1.7 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
All Bar One Reading
1.7 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
Hope & Bear
2.7 km
A classic Reading pub with vintage charm, two beer gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere for food, drinks, and lively events.
The Three Tuns
4.4 km
Historic Reading pub blending traditional charm with lively bar and restaurant vibes on bustling Wokingham Road.
The Fox and Hounds
7.8 km
Charming dog-friendly gastropub in Sulhamstead offering hearty British fare, scenic beer garden, and a warm countryside welcome.
The Sesh Bars
9.9 km
Transform your event with The Sesh Bars’ stylish mobile cocktail service, delivering expert mixology and vibrant vibes in Reading and beyond.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Reading
1.3 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
1.4 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
1.4 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
1.7 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
3sixty
4.0 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
The Binfield Club
13.8 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Venue, Bucks
23.8 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
23.8 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Diligence
24.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
The Music & Words Club
25.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Windsor at The Music & Words Club, where live performances and creative energy come alive in a cozy atmosphere.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
25.5 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Boom
25.7 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
25.7 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
25.7 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Winkers Nightclub
34.1 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
