Alongside ‘Water Fest’ the festival will take over the Abbey Quarter with activities and entertainment for all ages. We will be revealing and celebrating the exciting history of Reading.
The Abbey Ruins will be officially re-opened at 11am.
Visit the Reading Guild of Artists pop up at Reading Museum. Take part in family activities (11am - 3pm) or browse their artworks for sale (10.30am - 3.30pm).
Explore the history of the Abbey in the 'Story of Reading' gallery
Find the hidden monk bears around the galleries
Visit our historic encampment and speak to our re-enactors
See 12th century cooking demonstrations, sword fights and weapon displays
Have a go at a variety of historical crafts
Visit our Reading Museum pop-up
Watch the ‘Earl Rivers Regiment of the Foote’ bring the explosive seventeenth century to life with Civil War military drills
Indulge in Reading’s best street food at Blue Collar's ‘Feastival’
Explore the newly restored ruins
Enjoy performances by local artists and groups
Meet characters from the Quarter's past
Admire the narrow boats
Take a boat trip
Explore the charity and community stalls
Don't miss the much-loved annual duck race!
See a photo exhibition ‘Hung, drawn and quartered,’ by local photographer Chris Forsey in the Turbine House at Riverside Museum
Look at our online map and schedule or pick one up on the day find out exactly what is going on where.
All ages
Just drop in