The Reading Abbey Quarter was created to bring together the unique, cultural heritage that exists within the former grounds of Reading Abbey, once one of Europe's largest royal monasteries.

Lying at the heart of Reading, the Abbey Quarter has witnessed almost nine-hundred years of history. Notably the Quarter includes Reading Museum, the Town Hall, Reading Gaol, St. James' Church, St Laurence's Church, the Forbury Gardens, and the remains of Reading Abbey. The Abbey Ruins and Gateway are both Grade I listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

The ‘Reading Abbey Revealed’ project is currently developing the Abbey Quarter through conservation, interpretation, signage, volunteering and public activities.

The Abbey Quarter is also home to many of Reading's leading businesses as the Abbey Quarter Business Improvement District.

The Abbey Quarter covers the former precinct of one of Europe's largest royal monasteries. We recommend starting your visit by discovering the history of Reading's royal abbey and the Norman conquest at Reading Museum. Then explore the layers of history with a stroll around the Quarter. We run regular walking tours of the Abbey Quarter, find out more on our what's on pages.

Reading is on the Great West Way touring route, so is an ideal base to explore all of its amazing attractions a whether you’re travelling by bus, bike, car or train.

Abbey Ruins Opening Hours

• Daily: dawn - dusk
• Closed: for occasional ticketed events and private hire