But Is It Art – Quirky Gift Boutique in Reading City Centre
Discover quirky, art-inspired gifts and British cultural charm at But Is It Art, Reading’s boutique for unique handcrafted treasures.
Located in Reading’s City Centre on Queen Victoria Street, But Is It Art is a distinctive boutique gift shop blending artistic handicrafts with a playful British cultural humour. It offers a curated selection of unique gifts, including bags, jewellery, books, and fashion accessories, making it a charming stop for art lovers and gift seekers alike.
A brief summary to But Is It Art
- City Centre, 7-9 Queen Victoria St, Reading, RG1 1SY, GB
- +441189581088
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to enjoy a quieter shopping experience and more personalized assistance.
- Explore the specialist book section for unique art and culture titles not found in mainstream bookstores.
- Check out the greeting cards and gift baskets for creative and thoughtful present ideas.
- Combine your visit with nearby cafes and shops in Reading’s City Centre for a full day of exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
But Is It Art location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about But Is It Art
A Unique Fusion of Art and British Wit
But Is It Art stands out as a boutique that cleverly combines art-inspired gifts with a distinctly British sense of humour. Situated in the heart of Reading’s City Centre, this shop offers a quirky collection of items that reflect both contemporary artistic trends and playful cultural references. The shop’s name itself poses a cheeky question that invites visitors to explore the boundaries between art and everyday objects.Diverse Range of Artistic Handicrafts and Accessories
Inside, you will find an eclectic mix of products including artistic handicrafts, handbags, jewellery, and fashion accessories. The shop also features a specialist book section, focusing on art and culture, alongside greeting cards and gift baskets. This variety ensures that visitors can find something unique whether they are looking for a thoughtful gift or a personal keepsake.Atmosphere and Shopping Experience
The boutique’s atmosphere is casual yet engaging, with displays that capture the quirky and fun essence of British culture. The shop’s layout encourages browsing and discovery, making it an enjoyable experience for those interested in creative and unusual gift items. The friendly staff contribute to a welcoming environment that invites questions and conversations about the items on offer.Location and Accessibility
Located at 7-9 Queen Victoria Street, the shop benefits from its central position within Reading’s bustling shopping district. It is easily accessible by public transport and is surrounded by other retail outlets and eateries, making it a convenient stop during a day of shopping or sightseeing in Reading.Operating Hours and Visitor Information
But Is It Art operates from 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Saturday, with shorter hours from 11 AM to 5 PM on Sundays. This schedule makes it accessible for both weekday shoppers and weekend visitors. The shop is well-suited for those seeking a leisurely browse or a last-minute gift option.Celebrating Creativity and Cultural Expression
More than just a gift shop, But Is It Art celebrates the creative spirit by offering products that challenge traditional notions of art. Its curated collection reflects a blend of cultural heritage and modern artistic expression, making it a small but meaningful cultural landmark within Reading’s retail landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VII Statue
0.2 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
1.5 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Hilton Reading
2.9 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
20.0 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
24.8 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
The Brocas
24.8 km
Explore The Brocas, a serene riverside park in Eton, perfect for picnics, walks, and breathtaking views of Windsor Castle.
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.
West Berkshire Museum
25.0 km
Discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of West Berkshire at the West Berkshire Museum, a must-visit tourist attraction in Newbury.
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
25.2 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
25.2 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
25.2 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.
The Curfew Tower
25.4 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Unmissable attractions to see
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
A powerful symbol of peace and hope against knife crime, crafted from reclaimed blades and community spirit in Reading.
Reading Abbey Ruins
0.5 km
Uncover the historical charm of Reading Abbey Ruins, a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the past amidst tranquil gardens.
Fanny's Antiques
0.6 km
Discover Reading’s eclectic antique gem offering vintage treasures, rustic furniture, and quirky curios at affordable prices with expert staff and free parking.
King's Meadow
0.9 km
Peaceful riverside park in Reading offering green space, scenic views, and community events along the Thames.
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.
Riverside Museum
1.0 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
1.2 km
Explore England’s rural past through immersive galleries, archives, and a peaceful garden at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading.
Caversham Court
1.4 km
A historic riverside garden in Reading, where centuries of history meet peaceful Thames-side walks and open-air Shakespeare under the trees.
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.
Balmore Walk
1.8 km
Discover peaceful trails and stunning views at Balmore Walk, a serene green space overlooking Reading’s Caversham suburb.
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
2.5 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
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience live music and delicious dining at The Botanist Reading - where every visit offers something new!
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
0.2 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.
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
0.3 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
London Street Brasserie
0.4 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Miller & Carter Oracle
0.4 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Piwnica Restaurant
1.2 km
Savor authentic Polish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in a charming Reading cellar restaurant.
Miller & Carter Caversham
2.8 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
5.5 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
6.2 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
8.5 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
10.7 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
0.0 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
1.3 km
Discover rare vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at Dolly Rose Vintage Shed, Caversham’s beloved boutique for sustainable, curated clothing.
Sugarland uk
2.5 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
4.7 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
6.3 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
8.5 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
13.5 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
13.5 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
15.4 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
16.2 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
18.7 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
18.8 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wild Lime
0.1 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
Milk Bar Reading
0.1 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.
Valpy Street Bar & Bistro
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
0.3 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
All Bar One Reading
0.4 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
The Face Bar
0.7 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.
Hope & Bear
1.6 km
A classic Reading pub with vintage charm, two beer gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere for food, 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.
The Three Tuns
3.2 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Q Club
0.0 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Reading Lola Lo
0.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
0.2 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Gun Street Garden
0.3 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
3sixty
2.7 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
The Binfield Club
12.9 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Venue, Bucks
24.4 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
24.5 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
24.9 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.
25.1 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Boom
25.3 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Diligence
25.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
The Scotch
25.3 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
25.3 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Winkers Nightclub
34.2 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
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
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
- Day Trip
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