1. The MERL Museum
First up, the Museum of English Rural Life – fantastic free day out for young and old. With the biggest national collection of artefacts, books and archives relating to the history of farming and the countryside, the MERL is a unique exploration of rural living in England.
With fascinating stories, immersive galleries and even tractors, wagons and other farming vehicles on display, you’ll find lots to explore on family visits that guarantee to educate and entertain at the same time. Once you’ve explored the museum, you can all take a break in the cafe or relax in the garden while younger kids play in one of two play areas.
2. Escape Hunt
If you’re looking for a unique and fun activity that the kids are guaranteed to love, Escape Hunt Reading is a fantastic option. The venue has five themed rooms for you to choose from, all suitable for children as young as eight, where you’ll be locked in once the game commences. With a 60-minute countdown to work against, you’ll have to think together to escape the room, solving puzzles and mental challenges in order to unlock the door before time runs out. Immersive, fun and dependent on teamwork, it’s a great activity for an hour of family fun.
3. RedKangaroo Trampoline Park
With wall-to-wall trampolines and a variety of aerial activities to throw yourself into, Reading’s RedKangaroo Trampoline Park is a must for the whole family on your visit. There’s a huge trampoline court and tumble track where you can perfect your summersaults. And, two foam pits, a timed ninja course and a Total Wipeout-style zone, where you can test your agility by jumping and ducking to avoid the rotating arms. While height and age restrictions apply on some of the activities, the park is a guaranteed fun day out for all ages.
4. Reading Murder Mystery Trail
What better way to explore the Reading with kids, than on a fun and engaging Murder Mystery Trail through the town. Order a trail guide, and you and the children can turn sleuth for the afternoon, embarking on a self-guided tour of the town as you hunt for clues to solve the case. The trail takes around two hours and will take you through bustling streets and scenic parks of Reading, uncovering its history and landmarks along the way.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay on your weekend break, discover our hotels near Reading train station. Situated right in the heart of Reading, ibis Styles Reading Centre is just a ten-minute walk from the station, so you can get there easily no matter where you’re travelling in from. Or, try Mercure George Hotel Reading, which occupies the oldest known building in Reading.
Whether it's making learning fun at the museum, working as a team against the clock, enjoying action-packed games, or turning detective while exploring the town, Reading offers a range of great fun-filled activities for the whole family.
