A trip to Reading FC offers a modern football away day experience in the heart of Berkshire. Madejski Stadium, home of the Royals since 1998, combines contemporary facilities with a welcoming environment for travelling supporters. Beyond football, Reading offers pubs, restaurants, and attractions to make a full day out enjoyable for any visiting fan.

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Getting There

Reading is well connected by train, road, and coach, making it accessible for travelling supporters.

• By Train: The main station is Reading Station, approximately 1.5 miles from the Madejski Stadium. Direct trains run from London Paddington (25 minutes), Bristol (1h 15m), Oxford (30 minutes), and Southampton (1h 15m). From the station, fans can take a taxi, local bus, or walk to the ground.
• By Car: The stadium is accessible via the M4. On matchdays, traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is advised. The stadium has official car parks, while nearby street parking is limited.
• By Coach: Away supporters’ coaches are dropped off at the designated away entrance, providing a safe and convenient way to reach the stadium.

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Where to Drink

Reading has a good range of pubs and bars suitable for pre-match drinks.

• Near the Stadium: Pubs such as The Madejski Arms and The Reading Brewery Tap are close to the ground and welcome away fans for a quick pint before kickoff.
• Town Centre: A short walk or bus ride from the stadium, Reading town centre offers pubs and bars along Broad Street, Friar Street, and King’s Road. The Purple Turtle and The Greyfriar are popular with away supporters for their lively atmosphere.
• Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, cafés and bars along the riverside provide a more relaxed setting.

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The Ground: Madejski Stadium

Madejski Stadium is a modern, all-seater venue with a capacity of around 24,000. Its layout ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

• Away Section: Visiting fans are housed in the South Stand, with an allocation of around 3,000. The stand is fully covered and close to the pitch, allowing chants and songs to carry effectively.
• Facilities: Concessions serve pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are modern and functional, though queues can build at busy times. Staff are welcoming and experienced in handling travelling supporters.

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Food Options

Reading offers a variety of food options for fans before or after the match.

• Near the Ground: Several takeaways sell traditional matchday food such as burgers, kebabs, and chips. The Madejski Arms provides pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down option.
• Town Centre: Reading town centre has restaurants and cafés serving British, Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Chains such as Wetherspoons, Greggs, and Subway are also available for quick meals.
• Local Specialties: Berkshire is known for hearty pies and traditional pub meals, which can be sampled in local pubs and eateries.

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Making a Weekend of It

Reading is a historic town with attractions and nightlife ideal for staying overnight.

• Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Broad Street and Friar Street. The Purple Turtle and The Greyfriar are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
• Culture & Attractions: Reading boasts the Reading Museum, Forbury Gardens, and Reading Abbey Ruins. Fans can also enjoy walks along the River Thames or the nearby Thames Valley countryside.
• Day Trips: London is less than an hour by train, while Oxford and Windsor are within easy reach for sightseeing or cultural experiences.

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Away Day Tips

• Arrive Early: Streets around the stadium can get busy on matchdays. Arriving at least 90 minutes before kickoff allows time to settle in.
• Drink in the Right Areas: Stick to official away pubs near the stadium or town centre venues for a safe pre-match experience.
• Dress for the Weather: Berkshire weather can be unpredictable, so layers and waterproofs are recommended.
• Engage with the Atmosphere: The South Stand is close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.

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Final Whistle

A Reading FC away day combines modern stadium facilities with a lively town atmosphere and plenty of options for pre- and post-match activities. Madejski Stadium is welcoming to travelling supporters, while Reading town centre provides pubs, restaurants, and cultural attractions to make a full day or weekend out.

From pre-match pints near the stadium to supporting your team in the South Stand, to exploring Reading Museum or enjoying a riverside stroll afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Reading is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a complete and enjoyable away day experience.