The Nag's Head: Reading's Premier Real Ale Pub
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Nag's Head is a celebrated pub located at 5 Russell Street, Reading, renowned for its exceptional selection of real ales, craft beers, and ciders. This vibrant yet traditional venue offers a welcoming atmosphere with knowledgeable staff, a lively but sensible music setting, and a large outdoor seating area. It stands out as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts seeking quality and variety in a friendly local environment.
A brief summary to The Nag's Head
- 5 Russell St, Reading, RG1 7XD, GB
- +447765880137
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the rotating selection of ten real ales and artisanal keg beers for a diverse tasting experience.
- Visit on weekends for lively outdoor seating and a chance to mingle with friendly locals.
- Ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations tailored to your taste preferences.
- Enjoy the sensible music volume that allows conversation without shouting.
- Check for special brews released during pub anniversaries or events for unique tasting opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Nag's Head location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Nag's Head
A Hub for Beer Connoisseurs in Reading
The Nag's Head has earned a reputation as one of Reading's finest pubs, particularly beloved for its extensive and carefully curated selection of beverages. It consistently offers around ten finely kept real ales on tap, alongside a diverse board of artisanal key keg beers that showcase a wide array of unique flavors. Complementing these are a variety of real ciders, making it a standout destination for those who appreciate traditional and craft brews alike.Atmosphere and Local Character
Situated on Russell Street, The Nag's Head exudes a traditional pub charm while maintaining a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The music is played at a considerate volume, ensuring it enhances rather than overwhelms the experience. The pub is known for its friendly and attentive staff, who are not only knowledgeable about the drinks on offer but also engage warmly with patrons, creating a genuine community feel. The large outdoor seating area adds to its appeal, especially during warmer months.Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
Though the current venue is a modern establishment, The Nag's Head name carries historical weight in the region, with records indicating public houses of the same name existing in Berkshire since the early 20th century. This continuity ties the pub to Reading's local heritage, preserving the traditional British pub culture while embracing contemporary tastes and trends in brewing.Quality and Value Without Compromise
The Nag's Head is praised for delivering excellent value, offering high-quality drinks at inexpensive prices. While it focuses primarily on its beverage selection rather than extensive food offerings, the pub has maintained a loyal following by prioritizing the quality and variety of its ales and ciders. This focus has helped it avoid the common trend of becoming just another food-centric pub, preserving its identity as a true alehouse.A Destination for Both Locals and Visitors
The pub attracts a diverse clientele, from local regulars to visitors and beer aficionados exploring Reading. Its reputation as a Berkshire institution for real ale means it often serves as a social hub where people can enjoy a well-poured pint, meet friendly locals, and soak in the authentic pub atmosphere. The Nag's Head’s commitment to quality and community makes it a standout spot in the town’s nightlife and cultural scene.Events and Special Brews
The Nag's Head occasionally celebrates milestones and special occasions with unique brews, such as a Sour IPA created for its 15th birthday. These special releases highlight the pub’s engagement with the craft beer community and its willingness to innovate while respecting traditional brewing methods. Such events add an extra layer of interest for visitors seeking distinctive experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VII Statue
0.8 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
1.7 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Hilton Reading
2.7 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
20.7 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
23.4 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Donnington Castle
25.0 km
Explore Donnington Castle, a historic gem in Newbury, where medieval architecture meets breathtaking landscapes, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Church Square
25.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Church Square in High Wycombe, where history meets modern charm in a delightful English town setting.
Sydney Camm Memorial
25.5 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
The Brocas
25.5 km
Explore The Brocas, a serene riverside park in Eton, perfect for picnics, walks, and breathtaking views of Windsor Castle.
River Thames Windsor
25.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of the River Thames in Windsor, a picturesque destination perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
The Ladywell
25.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of The Ladywell in Speen, a historical landmark rich in folklore and natural tranquility, perfect for peaceful reflection.
King George III & His Horse Statue
25.9 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Windsor Wheel
25.9 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
25.9 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
26.0 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
The Armoured Heart sculpture
0.8 km
A powerful symbol of peace and hope against knife crime, crafted from reclaimed blades and community spirit in Reading.
Reading Museum
0.9 km
Discover Berkshire’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and a historic setting in the heart of Reading.
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
0.9 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
0.9 km
Dive into immersive escape room adventures with thrilling puzzles and captivating stories at Escape Reading in the heart of Reading.
Knockout Escape Rooms
1.0 km
Engage in immersive escape room adventures with clever puzzles and lively hosts at Reading’s Knockout Escape Rooms on Milford Road.
Fanny's Antiques
1.0 km
Discover Reading’s eclectic antique gem offering vintage treasures, rustic furniture, and quirky curios at affordable prices with expert staff and free parking.
Maiwand Lion
1.1 km
Explore the historic Maiwand Lion in Reading, a stunning monument commemorating the bravery of the 66th Berkshire Regiment amidst beautiful gardens.
Reading Abbey Ruins
1.2 km
Uncover the historical charm of Reading Abbey Ruins, a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the past amidst tranquil gardens.
Caversham Court
1.5 km
A historic riverside garden in Reading, where centuries of history meet peaceful Thames-side walks and open-air Shakespeare under the trees.
King's Meadow
1.6 km
Peaceful riverside park in Reading offering green space, scenic views, and community events along the Thames.
The Museum of English Rural Life
1.6 km
Explore England’s rural past through immersive galleries, archives, and a peaceful garden at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading.
Riverside Museum
1.7 km
A peaceful riverside museum in Reading, where Victorian waterworks meet seasonal art and the story of the Kennet River unfolds.
Prospect Park
2.0 km
Reading’s largest green haven blending historic charm, diverse recreation, and natural beauty across 50 hectares of parkland.
Balmore Walk
2.1 km
Discover peaceful trails and stunning views at Balmore Walk, a serene green space overlooking Reading’s Caversham suburb.
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
2.9 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
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
0.5 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
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
0.7 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
The Botanist Reading
0.9 km
Experience live music and delicious dining at The Botanist Reading - where every visit offers something new!
Miller & Carter Oracle
0.9 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
London Street Brasserie
0.9 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Piwnica Restaurant
1.8 km
Savor authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in a charming Reading cellar restaurant.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
2.1 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
Miller & Carter Caversham
2.9 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks in a warm, inviting setting at Miller & Carter Caversham, Reading’s premier steakhouse destination.
L'Ortolan
5.5 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
6.7 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
8.0 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
The Spring Inn
9.3 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Chalk
11.3 km
Chalk Restaurant offers warm, stylish dining with quality modern English cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in central Wokingham.
The Shurlock Inn
12.5 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
0.7 km
Discover quirky, art-inspired gifts and British cultural charm at But Is It Art, Reading’s boutique for unique handcrafted treasures.
Harris Arcade
0.8 km
Discover Reading’s elegant 1930s Art Deco arcade, home to quirky independent shops and a unique vintage shopping experience.
Dolly Rose Vintage Shed
1.7 km
Discover rare vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at Dolly Rose Vintage Shed, Caversham’s beloved boutique for sustainable, curated clothing.
Sugarland uk
2.0 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
4.0 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
5.6 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
8.0 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
8.2 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
13.0 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
13.1 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
15.6 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.
Peach's Stores
17.4 km
Discover the convenience of Peach's Stores, your go-to stop for snacks, beverages, and essentials in Reading, UK.
Litten Tree Antiques
18.0 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
19.5 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nag's Head
0.0 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Face Bar
0.1 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 Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Reading
0.6 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
The Purple Turtle
0.6 km
A vibrant bar in Reading famed for its unique layered outdoor spaces and diverse drinks menu, perfect for lively social nights.
Milk Bar Reading
0.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
All Bar One Reading
0.8 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
Wild Lime
0.8 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
Oakford Social Club
0.8 km
A lively Reading pub with retro charm, great food, diverse drinks, and an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere for every night out.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
0.9 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
Valpy Street Bar & Bistro
0.9 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 White Eagle
1.1 km
A lively Polish pub in Reading offering hearty cuisine, a vibrant beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Hope & Bear
2.2 km
A classic Reading pub with vintage charm, two beer gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere for food, drinks, and lively events.
The Three Tuns
3.8 km
Historic Reading pub blending traditional charm with lively bar and restaurant vibes on bustling Wokingham Road.
The Fox and Hounds
6.8 km
Charming dog-friendly gastropub in Sulhamstead offering hearty British fare, scenic beer garden, and a warm countryside welcome.
The Sesh Bars
8.9 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
0.6 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
0.6 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
0.6 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Q Club
0.8 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
3sixty
3.1 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
The Binfield Club
13.5 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Venue, Bucks
25.0 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
25.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Music & Words Club
25.6 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.
25.8 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Diligence
25.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
The Boom
26.0 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
26.0 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
26.0 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Winkers Nightclub
34.9 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
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
