To an outsider, Reading may seem like a town overflowing with the same old bar chains, lacking the ‘cool feel’ of neighbouring cities.

But there IS heaps of trendy bar hangouts to be found in Reading’s town centre, and here’s The Chronicle’s pick of the best ones. Enjoy!

Milk Bar

Reading Chronicle:

Located on Merchants Place just behind Nandos, Milk Bar is the perfect lowkey hangout for a casual drink after work, date spot, or night out for a Friday or Saturday.

Gracing Reading’s drinking scene for the past 11 years, Milk Bar is considered a favourite for young professionals, students, and newcomers.

The team at Milk Bar also regularly host comedy nights, the next being Tom Deacon on Tuesday, November 21.

Reading Biscuit Factory

Reading Biscuit Factory is no one trick pony, acting as a bar, café, cinema, shop, live performance space, and community hub.

The vibe here is laid back and chilled, with plenty of benches and tables for everyone to eat, drink, or simply connect with each other.

The space also hosts an exciting and varied film programme, from the newest blockbusters to the latest independent films. 

Market House

Situated just off Market Place, Market House is an event’s space and boutique hotel that boasts a whole range of amenities.

Whether it be beating your colleagues at club shuffle or ping pong, watching live music, or simply enjoying a glass of wine in their ambient downstairs bar, Market House has got you covered.

Aside from the vintage multi-level bar space downstairs, they also have an elegant rooftop bar, perfect for date nights.

Blue Collar Corner

Reading Chronicle:

This outside bar/food space is a lively staple of Reading’s trendy hangouts. Located on Hosier Street, the brightly coloured space acts as an undercover food stall court.

Furthermore, the bar-come-eatery provides customers with live sports coverage on huge projector screens.

Blue Collar also has a raised seating space decorated with greenery and flowers, perfect for an evening drink with views across Reading.