A TOWN in the UK is so big, it even beats other cities in the country for size.
Reading was first mentioned as a town in the 8th century, and has remained that way even though it has since massively grown.
With a current population of around 174,000, according to the 2021 census, compared to just 1,300 in the UK’s smallest city, St David’s.
And despite it’s size, Reading has not been granted city status, nor does it have a cathedral.
And due to it’s size, there is more than enough to do on a visit there.
One of those is the Thames Lido, which first opened in 1903 and has since been named one of the best in the country.
After reopening in 2017 after a 40-year-closure, it is now home to an outdoor pool as well as restaurant and spa.
With a poolside bar, tourists have even said it’s like “being in the Med” on a summer day.
And of course in the summer there is the world-famous music festival Reading Festival, which has been running since 1971.
This year’s line up, taking place later this month, includes headliners such as Blink 182, Fred Again.. and Liam Gallagher, as well as The Prodigy and Skrillex.
And Reading was once known for it’s beer, following the opening of Simonds Brewery in 1785.
While this has since closed, there are a number of pubs to choose from, including the riverfront The Rowbarge.
Don’t want to spend anything while there? The town has lots of free attractions too including the Reading Museum and the Reading Abbey Ruins.
Make sure to check out the Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry in the former, it’s main attraction.
Lots of tourists have said it was a “hidden gem” in the city on TripAdvisor as well as a place to spend hours, with some saying you need at least three to explore it.
And at the Reading Abbey there is the Forbury Gardens, a Victorian formal garden.
The town is also well-connected, following the massive redevelopment of it’s main Reading Station.
Now connected to London by the Elizabeth Line, it also hopes to connect directly to Heathrow Airport in the future.
Trains from London to Reading take just under one hour.
If you fancy staying, we tried out the Bel & Dragon hotel in a former biscuit factory.
In the mean time, here’s what to do in England’s largest village right by the beach.
You don't need to spend a penny to keep your kids entertained this summer...
Museums – Some museums offer free entry to some exhibits, and also host events for kids.
Parks – Head to your local park to enjoy the playgrounds, games areas, courts and splash pads. Some even have trails for kids to enjoy.
Beach – It doesn’t have to be sunny to enjoy the beach, you can go rock pooling, crabbing, make sandcastles, or enjoy a walk along the headland.
Library – If the weather is awful, head indoors and borrow books, audiobooks, dvds.
Cooking – Have your own mini bake-off, or Come Dine With Me challenge.
Playdates – Invite friends over for an afternoon of socialising.
Boardgames – Enjoy a little sibling rivalry with rounds of Monopoly or stretch your brain with Scrabble.
At the other end of the scale, the UK’s smallest town is home to a Michelin-starred pub.
Or head to this seaside town for the UK’s largest Wetherspoons.
