As the long school summer holidays begin, it’s a great time to remember all the free and fun activities the borough has to offer.
Firstly, there are our wonderful parks, play areas and wooded areas which can all be explored and used for free.
The newly upgraded Westfield Park is now open and double its original size. It offers plenty to do with an open green space directly next to it for other games and picnics.
The ever-popular paddling pool at Christchurch Meadows is now open and a great way for younger children to cool off and have some fun in the sun.
Remember when out and about to wear adequate sun protection lotion and a hat and take lots of water to drink to keep safe and well.
We have open areas and woodland throughout the borough, so if you tend to go to the same one, branch out and try a different one, by walking, cycling, or catching the bus there. Look online for free scavenger hunts for plants, bugs, and birds to make walks into adventures.
If you feel like getting back on your bike Our Active Travel scheme also provides free activities for adults who want to get out and about. Avanti Cycling offers adult cycle training for those who have never cycled or who are a bit rusty, and you can get your bicycle checked out at one of the monthly Dr Bike sessions in the town centre. There are also led cycle rides and led leisure walks if you are looking to explore different parts of Reading in a friendly social setting.
We are a town with the Thames running through it and many rivers and deep canals which are great for activities and a cool breeze. But even when temperatures are extremely high and the sun is out, water remains ice cold. This can send people into cold water shock if they jump in, gasping for breath which can lead to swallowing water and drowning. If you are out on the water in a boat, canoe or paddle boarding wear a life jacket.
And to swim safely for a small fee, visit the magnificent new Rivermead Leisure Centre complete with a fun splash area for little ones, Palmer Park Leisure Centre, or the recently reopened South Reading Leisure Centre for family swims.
And if the sun doesn’t make much of an appearance there is still loads to do.
The libraries have the annual Summer Reading Challenge, which is great fun and encourages children to read, and a series of magic shows by Fred in the Shed who will be travelling around our libraries, also check out your local branch for specific activities.
Reading Museum is free and there are trails and free activities linked to its historical collection where I always manage to see something new during each visit! There are also free virtual Reading Abbey Tours, and YouTube videos to watch which guide people through the ruins and their historical and political past.
Otherwise, take a wander around the Grade I listed building frequented by Kings, its dormitory, treasury, and chapter house where monks would all meet together. Just a short walk away along the Oscar Wilde Chestnut Walk is the Riverside Museum which is only open in the summer months.
For parents of children who receive Pupil Premium free school meals, there is more information about the summer activities on the Brighter Futures for Children website where there is also information about youth groups and Children’s Centres. Take a look at
www.readingmuseum.org.uk
www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/outdoors/parks-outdoor-facilities-open-spaces
www.reading.gov.uk/vehicles-roads-and-transport/cycling
www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/libraries
Cllr Liz Terry is the Leader of Reading Borough Council
