Forbury Gardens

Forbury Gardens is a delightful Victorian town garden, created at the height of the urban parks movement. The gardens have recently undergone major restoration. They are located between the town centre and the ruins of the 11th century abbey, not far from Reading Station. The ornamental gardens have a wall around which provides a peaceful and tranquil retreat. There is a bandstand, and bands play every weekend in the summer. The Forbury Gardens is home to the famous Maiwand Lion statue. Although there are no formal children’s facilities, the gardens are wonderful for play, and the kiosk serves coffee, ice-creams and light lunches. The gardens have been entered for three national competitions, and have so far won a Green Flag Award every year since re-opening, along with annual accreditation as a Green Heritage Site, the BALI award and Best Regional Park in the Britain in Bloom competition.