After the indulgence of Christmas dinner and all the trimmings that come with it, an exploration of the great outdoors may be exactly what is needed.

From riverside strolls to countryside rambles, finding somewhere to clear your head in Reading following a chaotic day has never been easier.

Blow the cobwebs away with the crisp winter air at any one of the walking and nature routes around Reading.

If you also happen to be in search of the perfect background for a family photo for social media, some of these outdoor delights have the most insta-worthy backgrounds. 

Here is our pick of the five best places to take a scenic walk across the Christmas period in Reading.

Balmore Walk

Get some fresh air after a little too much indulging on Boxing Day with a stroll in Balmore Park. 

The 2.15 acres of walking trails look over Caversham, and Reading from Earley to Prospect Park.

The small woodland includes mature oaks and beech trees, great for frolicking with children and boisterous pups.

Reading Chronicle:

Due to its location, Balmore Walk often finds itself with a sprinkling of white snow or frost in the colder months which is fantastic for that perfect Christmas shot.

One Caversham resident gave it a 5* Trip Advisor review for its beauty and accessibility.

He said: “Balmore offers some of the most stunning views of Reading as it is one of the highest points near enough to central Reading.

“This does not mean it is hilly as it is flat(ish) for most of the way and the two main hills are avoidable as there are alternative paths you can take.”

Bugs Bottom

Reading Chronicle:

Situated on the boundary of Emmer Green and Caversham Heights, Bugs Bottom is a meadow grassland where the sight of dogs (and the occasional horse) isn’t uncommon.

If you’re looking to get your heart pounding after a lazy Christmas day, the steep hill at Bugs Bottom is made for energetic climbs and views so idyllic it will be worth the effort.

Reading Chronicle:

Whether you are going on your own or with a group, the one aspect of the woodland route that is a must-see for kids and adults alike is the tree swing.

 

Kings Meadow

Kings Meadow is a large open space with a pleasant walk along the towpath between Reading Bridge and Kennet Mouth.

The Coal woodland is at the eastern end of the Reading section of the Thames corridor. It is a wooded area raised out of the flood plain, and it starts immediately adjacent to the foot of Horseshoe Bridge at Kennet mouth.

Reading Chronicle:

If you are in and around central Reading, the amble over to Kings Meadow is a simple one, under the subway under the train station and across the road toward Reading Bridge.

With car parking facilities available on Napier Road, it is accessible to all in Reading and provides beautiful scenery as you walk along the Thames Path.

Sulham Woods

Reading Chronicle:

Sulham Woods is a stunning area of wildlife stretching from Purley-on-Thames down to Theale, with hundreds of footpaths leading into Tilehurst.

Several trails stretch across the area to try, with a mix of open countryside and woodland to enjoy.

You can start your walk from Sulham village or from nearby Tidmarsh. There is a car park on Sulham Hill Road just to the east of the village.

A popular route is from Pincents Lane in Calcot up to Wilder’s Folly, a 200-year-old dovecote tower.

Dinton Pastures

Reading Chronicle:

Dinton Pastures is an idyllic country park in Wokingham just outside Reading.

If you are most relaxed around water, the park offers a handful of walking trails and greenspaces centered around Black Swan Lake.

Fun for all the family, the country park is accessible to all and great for any age wanting to stretch their legs after a stressful and exciting time of year.

If paths and set routes are more your cup of tea than rambling through woodland, this is the one for you!