5 Best Places To Go Shopping In Reading

An expansive indoor shopping hub on the banks of the River Kennet, The Oracle is the best place to go in Reading when you want to browse big-name brands. It’s also perfect for catching up with friends over coffee or watching the latest Hollywood blockbuster on one of 11 state-of-the-art screens. Luxury shoppers can try Swarovski and Rolex for dazzling accessories, while denim enthusiasts can visit Levi’s for a pair of classic jeans.

When it comes to mealtimes, head to Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse for grass-fed beef and South American wines or Côte Brasserie for delectable Parisian dishes like crab maison and confit duck à l'orange. If you’re a busy shopper with hungry kids, there’s always Nandos, Five Guys and Mission Burrito.

Reading Farmer’s Market stocks an abundance of fresh food from local producers based in the Thames Valley region. Set in a historic cattle market, this twice-monthly event also sells piping-hot drinks and ready-to-eat goodies including freshly brewed coffee and homemade doughnuts. Try the delicious cinnamon claw from the local brand Pippin.

Peruse the stalls and buy artisan cheeses, Portuguese custard tarts, tortilla chips and salsas, plus some of the best free-range eggs you’ll find in the county. You can also shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, and a range of meats and seafood like homemade sausages and gourmet smoked trout. The market is only open during the morning so get there early for the freshest produce.

Located a short walk from Reading Museum and the leafy Forbury Gardens Park, Flamingos Vintage is a hip fashion enclave. It serves up racks of retro apparel and accessories spanning the 1960s through to the new millennium. Featuring a brightly painted interior and glimmering silver disco balls, this characterful treasure trove is nothing short of feel-good. 

The shop is famed for its unique American imports including embellished denim, floral Western shirts, collectable baseball tees and pastel-hued racer jackets. There are also knit jumpers and jeans to see you through the cooler months, as well as a fabulous collection of bags, belts and sunglasses. Why not take advantage of their kilo sale section and grab a whole new wardrobe?

An Art Deco jewel dating back to the 1930s, Harris Arcade is home to indie boutiques and specialist services, including Top Gun: a super-cool tattoo parlour. Wander its aisles for a host of unusual wares sold by local Reading merchants, from gourmet food and potted plants to acrylic nails and Chinese medicine.

We love Crunch Comics for its collectable back issues and coveted graphic novels, and The Sound Machine for vinyl records spanning the 1970s and beyond. Adrienne Henry Millinery offers stunning hats for all occasions, while Shave and Coster delivers a traditional tobacconist experience with its cigars, shaving kits and gift-worthy hip flasks. You’ll find Harris Arcade on Friar Street, surrounded by yet more retail opportunities and eateries.