Whether you’re looking for festive events, last-minute gifts or holiday essentials, Reading has plenty to offer during the Christmas season. Here’s a guide to what’s happening and what will be open over the bank holidays to help you plan your festive season.

Festive Activities and Events

Reading Winter Wonderland – 9th November 2024 to 5th January 2025
Located at Hills Meadow, George Street, Reading Winter Wonderland offers rides, an ice skating rink, Santa’s Grotto, and festive food.

• Entry: Free; activity prices vary.
• Unlimited Ride Wristbands: £22 (4 hours), add ice skating for £5.
• Book online for Santa’s Grotto and ice skating.

Shopping and Essentials Over the Holidays

Why Are Shops Closed on Christmas Day?

If you’re unfamiliar with UK holiday customs, you may wonder why most stores are closed on 25th December. This is due to the Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004, which mandates large shops (over 280 square meters) to close on Christmas Day, ensuring employees get a well-deserved break and that the holiday remains focused on family and tradition.

The Oracle Shopping Centre

• 24 Dec: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• 25 Dec: Closed
• 26 Dec: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• 31 Dec: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• 1 Jan: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Broad Street Mall

• 24 Dec: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• 25 Dec: Closed
• 26 Dec: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• 1 Jan: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

John Lewis

• 24 Dec: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• 25 & 26 Dec: Closed
• 27 Dec: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Marks & Spencer

• 24 Dec: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• 25 & 26 Dec: Closed
• 31 Dec: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Cafes and Essentials Open During the Holidays

Costa Coffee

• Christmas Eve: Open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (some locations may close early).
• Christmas Day: Closed.
• New Year’s Eve: Open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• New Year’s Day: Closed.
• Bank Holidays: Typically 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Starbucks
Good news! Many Starbucks locations in the UK remain open on Christmas Day, although with reduced hours. It’s a cozy spot for those looking to unwind during holiday travels.

Tesco Express

• 24 Dec: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• 25 Dec: Closed
• 26 Dec: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• 31 Dec: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• 1 Jan: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Boots

• 24 Dec: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• 25 & 26 Dec: Closed
• Reopens 27 Dec with regular hours.

Enjoy the Holidays in Reading

Whether you’re enjoying festive events like the Santa Run, skating at Winter Wonderland or grabbing a coffee at Costa, Reading offers plenty of ways to make your holiday season special. Remember to check local store hours and plan ahead to avoid last-minute surprises.

Happy Holidays from Reading!