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Country Parks & Nature Reserves in Reading

All three of Reading's nature spots are free to get into, which makes choosing easier than usual. Maiden Erlegh Local Nature Reserve is closest to the centre, with a learning booklet to follow and a stretch of water where people fish. Wokefield Common has woodland trails and glades to wander, dragonflies to spot, and a flat, easy-access route that suits pushchairs and scooters, plus free parking and a welcome for dogs. For toddlers and buggies, Wokefield Common's flat paths are the easier option. If you fancy a longer trip out to Newbury, Snelsmore Common Country Park has heathland trails where older children can hunt for adders, dragonflies and lizards, a crayon rubbing trail for younger legs, and a cafe and toilets on site, useful if you are staying a few hours. None of the three charges for entry, so the only real decision is how far you want to drive and whether you need proper facilities when you get there.

✓ 4 places✦ 4 free to visit