Reading (pronounced red-ing) is a bustling, modern UK city offering a variety of dog-friendly venues and activities. Whether you’re someone seeking an opportunity to pet sit in Reading, a pet parent on the lookout for a Reading pet sitter, or looking to have a chilled day with your pup pal, here’s how to make the most of dog-friendly Reading.
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Dog parks in Reading
Christchurch Meadows
This riverside park features expansive grassy areas, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. A metalled footpath and cycleway run along the riverbank, providing scenic routes for exercise. The park also includes a children's play area and sports pitches.
Location: George St, Caversham, Reading RG4 8BY, United Kingdom
Arthur Newbery Park
One of Reading's oldest parks, Arthur Newbery Park offers sloping landscapes with views over the Thames Valley. It comprises mainly grassland with scattered trees, small wooded areas, and a children's play area. The park's open spaces are perfect for dogs to roam and play.
Location: 55 Armour Hill, Reading RG31 6JH, United Kingdom
Prospect Park
As Reading's largest open space, Prospect Park offers vast meadows and well-maintained walking paths. It's a favorite among local dog owners, providing ample space for dogs to run and socialize.
Location: Liebenrood Rd, Reading RG30 2ND, United Kingdom
King's Meadow
This open field park offers vast grassy areas suitable for picnics and recreational activities. The Thames Path runs through the meadow, providing picturesque riverside walks. The park also hosts various annual events, making it a lively spot for both dogs and their owners.
Location: Napier Rd, Reading RG1 8AB, United Kingdom
Hills Meadow
Hills Meadow features tree-lined walkways along a backwater of the Thames. Amenities include a BMX track, skateboarding ramp, and open spaces suitable for dog walking. The meadow is also the traditional venue for fairs and circuses visiting the town.
Location: Hills Meadow, Reading, UK
Dog-friendly restaurants in Reading
The Rising Sun
A historic gastropub dating back to the 17th century, offering a spacious garden with heated dining pods. Dogs are welcome in specific dining areas, and the pub is conveniently located near the Abbey, ideal for a post-meal walk.
Location: 30 Silver St, Reading RG1 2ST, United Kingdom
The Fisherman’s Cottage
This charming gastropub is situated meters from the River Kennet, offering beautiful views and outdoor seating that overlooks the water. It's an excellent spot to enjoy a freshly cooked meal with your dog.
Fun dog-friendly activities in Reading
Oracle Shopping Centre
Some stores display a dog sticker in the window if they allow dogs inside.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Monday-Friday: 9:30 am - 8 pm, Saturdays: 9 am - 7 pm, Sundays: 11 am - 5 pm
Dog-friendly walking trails in Reading
Blundells Copse
A designated local nature reserve, Blundells Copse is an ancient woodland featuring a network of paths alongside a stream. It's a serene spot for dog walkers seeking a tranquil environment amidst diverse flora and fauna.
Location: 10A Bran Cl, Tilehurst, Reading RG30 4SY, United Kingdom
Hosehill Copse Nature Reserve
This 23.6-hectare local nature reserve features a one-mile circular walk around the lake. The area is rich in birdlife, making it an enjoyable spot for nature-loving dog walkers.
Location: Reading, UK
Dog-friendly cafes in Reading
Workhouse Coffee
A dog-friendly café serving great coffee and tasty treats for both humans and hounds.
Location: 335 Oxford Rd, Reading RG30 1AY, United Kingdom
YayLo
A local café known for its welcoming atmosphere towards dogs. Patrons have noted its dog-friendly environment, making it a pleasant spot for pet owners.
Annual dog events in Reading
Fun Dog Show
Following the success of previous shows, this event promises a day filled with various fun classes for dogs, activities, and family-friendly entertainment. Entry is free, with classes priced at £3 each. Registration opens at 10:15 AM, and the show runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Cost: £3 per person
Date and time: Monday, 26th May 2025
Location: Berkshire Music Trust, Reading
All About Dogs Show – Newbury
A weekend packed with exciting arena displays, expert advice, shopping, and numerous have-a-go activities. This event offers fun for both dogs and their owners. Additionally, your ticket grants access to the Newbury Garden Show on the same day.
Cost: TBC
Date and time: 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
Location: Newbury Showground, Berkshire
The best dog-friendly bars in Reading
Zerodegrees Microbrewery
A microbrewery located just a minute's walk from The Oracle, combining craft beer with pizza. It features an outdoor terrace and garden booths, making it perfect for dog-accompanied visits.
Location: 9 Bridge St, Reading RG1 2LR, United Kingdom
The Fox & Hounds
Known for top-quality service to both human and canine guests, this pub offers water, treats, and even cleaning facilities for dogs after a walk in the nearby Hosehill Lake Nature Reserve. The enclosed garden is perfect for dogs to run around.
Dog-friendly wineries in Reading
Vino.Vita. Italian Wine Bar
Vino.Vita. is praised for its dog-friendly policy. Visitors have highlighted the warm welcome extended to canine guests, making it an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts who wish to bring their dogs along.
Location: Minerva House, 20 Valpy St, Reading RG1 1AR, United Kingdom
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Reading from dog owners and pet sitters
As a popular and busy place, it’s good to know how to make dog-friendly Reading work for you and your pooch pal. Here’s a few tips and tricks on how to have fun at dog-friendly places in Reading either with your own dog, or with a new pup pal.
Tips for pet parents
Explore surrounding green spaces
While Reading itself isn’t known for its green spaces, the surrounding Berkshire countryside has lots of pretty places to walk and take in the local nature.
Plan your day
While you’re likely surrounded by dog-friendly places in Reading, it’s always a good idea to call up before arriving, just in case rules have changed around dog-friendliness.
Plan ahead for your vacation
It’s one thing to plan a day out in your home city, but what do you usually do with your pooch when you go away? Well, as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider connecting with a trusted Reading pet sitter ahead of your next trip. Click below to find out how.
How to connect with pet sitters in Reading
Tips for pet sitters
Get pet parent permission
Before deciding to take your new pet pal on public transport or to a busy cafe or bar, double check they’re used to those settings.
Follow the dog’s routine
Keep your new pal in the schedule they’re used to, and follow pet parent instructions on where you’re allowed to take them.
Experience Reading through house sitting
So, want to take care of a new furry friend in exchange for a place to stay? Click below to find out how to secure a Reading house sit.
How to find house sits in Reading
