Milk Bar Reading: Contemporary Cocktail Bar with a Sweet Twist
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
Milk Bar Reading is a lively cocktail bar located at 8 Merchants Place in the heart of Reading. Known for its creative artisan cocktails and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a modern twist on classic drinks alongside a curated selection of premium spirits. The bar’s stylish interior and welcoming vibe make it a popular spot for evening socializing and enjoying innovative drinks in a relaxed setting.
A brief summary to Milk Bar Reading
- 8 Merchants Pl, Reading, RG1 1DT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5 pm-12 am
- Friday 5 pm-12 am
- Saturday 5 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour (17:00–19:00 Sunday to Friday) to enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails and sample signature drinks at great value.
- Try unique cocktails like the Jammy Dodger or Black Tears Don’t Falltini for a taste of Milk Bar’s creative mixology.
- Reserve a table in advance for weekend evenings to secure a spot in this popular city center venue.
- Explore the surrounding Merchants Place area to combine your visit with nearby dining or entertainment options.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Milk Bar Reading location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Milk Bar Reading
A Modern Hub for Cocktail Enthusiasts
Milk Bar Reading stands out as a contemporary cocktail bar nestled in the bustling Merchants Place of Reading. It has carved a niche for itself by blending classic cocktail traditions with inventive twists, crafting a menu that features artisan spirits, premium rums, tequilas, whiskies, gins, and craft ales. This dedication to quality and creativity appeals to both casual drinkers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.Atmosphere and Design
The bar boasts a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an evening out with friends or a casual date night. Its interior design combines modern aesthetics with a touch of urban chic, creating a space that feels both stylish and approachable. The lighting and layout encourage socializing, while the attentive staff contribute to a welcoming environment.Signature Drinks and Menu Highlights
Milk Bar Reading is particularly celebrated for its signature cocktails that playfully incorporate nostalgic elements. Drinks like the Jammy Dodger, inspired by the classic biscuit but elevated with Irish honey liqueur, and the Black Tears Don’t Falltini, which cleverly references pop culture with a blend of Oreos and espresso martini flavors, showcase the bar’s innovative approach. Happy hour specials further enhance the appeal, offering 2-for-1 cocktails from Sunday to Friday between 17:00 and 19:00.Location and Local Vibe
Situated in Reading’s lively city center, Milk Bar benefits from its proximity to other nightlife and dining venues, making it an excellent stop for an evening out. The location at 8 Merchants Place places it within a vibrant urban setting where visitors can enjoy a mix of entertainment options. The bar’s moderate pricing ensures it remains accessible to a broad audience.Community and Events
Milk Bar Reading often engages with the local community through events and themed nights that celebrate both classic and contemporary cocktail culture. Its commitment to quality and creativity has earned it a loyal following, reflected in its strong ratings and numerous photos shared by patrons.Experience Beyond the Drinks
Beyond its drinks menu, Milk Bar offers a social experience marked by lively conversations, a friendly crowd, and a sense of casual sophistication. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the bar provides a welcoming space to unwind, celebrate, or simply enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a dynamic city environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VII Statue
0.1 km
A distinguished Edwardian bronze statue near Reading station, embodying regal history and artistic heritage from the early 20th century.
Holy Well of St Anne
1.4 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Hilton Reading
3.0 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
22.7 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Sydney Camm Memorial
24.9 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
The Brocas
24.9 km
Explore The Brocas, a serene riverside park in Eton, perfect for picnics, walks, and breathtaking views of Windsor Castle.
West Berkshire Museum
24.9 km
Discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of West Berkshire at the West Berkshire Museum, a must-visit tourist attraction in Newbury.
River Thames Windsor
25.0 km
Discover the beauty and history of the River Thames in Windsor, a picturesque destination perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
Windsor Wheel
25.2 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.
King George III & His Horse Statue
25.3 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
25.3 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
25.3 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains, a captivating landmark in Windsor celebrating Queen Elizabeth II.
Historical Windsor
25.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Historical Windsor, the perfect shop to capture the essence of this royal town's heritage.
Snelsmore Common Country Park
25.4 km
Discover Snelsmore Common Country Park, a serene haven for hikers and wildlife lovers in Newbury, offering stunning landscapes and conservation efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
0.3 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.
Broad Street Mall
0.3 km
A vibrant community-focused shopping and entertainment centre in Reading with diverse retail, dining, and leisure options.
Maiwand Lion
0.4 km
Explore the historic Maiwand Lion in Reading, a stunning monument commemorating the bravery of the 66th Berkshire Regiment amidst beautiful gardens.
The Armoured Heart sculpture
0.5 km
A powerful symbol of peace and hope against knife crime, crafted from reclaimed blades and community spirit in Reading.
Fanny's Antiques
0.5 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 Abbey Ruins
0.6 km
Uncover the historical charm of Reading Abbey Ruins, a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the past amidst tranquil gardens.
Knockout Escape Rooms
0.8 km
Engage in immersive escape room adventures with clever puzzles and lively hosts at Reading’s Knockout Escape Rooms on Milford Road.
King's Meadow
0.9 km
Peaceful riverside park in Reading offering green space, scenic views, and community events along the Thames.
Riverside Museum
1.1 km
A peaceful riverside museum in Reading, where Victorian waterworks meet seasonal art and the story of the Kennet River unfolds.
Caversham Court
1.3 km
A historic riverside garden in Reading, where centuries of history meet peaceful Thames-side walks and open-air Shakespeare under the trees.
The Museum of English Rural Life
1.3 km
Explore England’s rural past through immersive galleries, archives, and a peaceful garden at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading.
Escape Reading
1.4 km
Dive into immersive escape room adventures with thrilling puzzles and captivating stories at Escape Reading in the heart of Reading.
Balmore Walk
1.7 km
Discover peaceful trails and stunning views at Balmore Walk, a serene green space overlooking Reading’s Caversham suburb.
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
2.6 km
Discover one of Britain’s finest collections of ancient Greek and Egyptian artefacts in a compact, scholarly museum at the University of Reading.
Prospect Park
2.7 km
Reading’s largest green haven blending historic charm, diverse recreation, and natural beauty across 50 hectares of parkland.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Reading Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
0.3 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.
The Botanist Reading
0.4 km
Experience live music and delicious dining at The Botanist Reading - where every visit offers something new!
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
0.4 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
London Street Brasserie
0.5 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Miller & Carter Oracle
0.5 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Piwnica Restaurant
1.3 km
Savor authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in a charming Reading cellar restaurant.
Miller & Carter Caversham
2.7 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks in a warm, inviting setting at Miller & Carter Caversham, Reading’s premier steakhouse destination.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
2.8 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
L'Ortolan
5.6 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
6.3 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
8.4 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
The Spring Inn
10.0 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Chalk
10.8 km
Chalk Restaurant offers warm, stylish dining with quality modern English cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in central Wokingham.
The Shurlock Inn
11.8 km
A charming 17th-century English gastropub blending historic charm with modern British cuisine and a lively bar scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
But Is It Art
0.1 km
Discover quirky, art-inspired gifts and British cultural charm at But Is It Art, Reading’s boutique for unique handcrafted treasures.
Harris Arcade
0.1 km
Discover Reading’s elegant 1930s Art Deco arcade, home to quirky independent shops and a unique vintage shopping experience.
Dolly Rose Vintage Shed
1.2 km
Discover rare vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at Dolly Rose Vintage Shed, Caversham’s beloved boutique for sustainable, curated clothing.
Sugarland uk
2.4 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
4.6 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
8.4 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
8.9 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
13.4 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
13.4 km
A charming gift shop in Goring Arcade offering traditional sweets, toys, stationery, pottery classes, and bespoke balloons for all occasions.
The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
15.5 km
Discover vintage treasures and artisan crafts in a charming antique barn nestled in Berkshire’s Moss End Garden Village.
Yattendon Village Stores & Post Office
16.1 km
A welcoming village hub combining convenience shopping and postal services in the heart of Yattendon.
Peach's Stores
18.1 km
Discover the convenience of Peach's Stores, your go-to stop for snacks, beverages, and essentials in Reading, UK.
Litten Tree Antiques
18.6 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
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
0.0 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
Oakford Social Club
0.1 km
A lively Reading pub with retro charm, great food, diverse drinks, and an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere for every night out.
Wild Lime
0.2 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
Valpy Street Bar & Bistro
0.3 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 Purple Turtle
0.4 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
0.4 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
0.4 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
All Bar One Reading
0.5 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
The Face Bar
0.6 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.
The Nag's Head
0.7 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The White Eagle
1.6 km
A lively Polish pub in Reading offering hearty cuisine, a vibrant beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Hope & Bear
1.7 km
A classic Reading pub with vintage charm, two beer gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere for food, drinks, and lively events.
The Three Tuns
3.3 km
Historic Reading pub blending traditional charm with lively bar and restaurant vibes on bustling Wokingham Road.
The Fox and Hounds
7.5 km
Charming dog-friendly gastropub in Sulhamstead offering hearty British fare, scenic beer garden, and a warm countryside welcome.
The Sesh Bars
9.6 km
Transform your event with The Sesh Bars’ stylish mobile cocktail service, delivering expert mixology and vibrant vibes in Reading and beyond.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly