Reading in World War Two

This tour explores Reading's experience during World War Two, covering the Luftwaffe bombing campaigns, civilian shelters, and local Home Guard operations. You'll visit bomb sites now developed into modern buildings, hear testimony from residents who lived through air raids, and understand how ordinary people endured wartime conditions. The guide connects local stories to the broader British home front experience. Best for WWII history enthusiasts and local families. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 3-18. You meet at Reading Central Library. Key highlights: Hear personal testimonies from people who lived through the Blitz, See locations of major bombing raids with archival photographs, Learn about civilian shelters and air raid procedures.

Price: £12

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 3-18

Best for: WWII history enthusiasts and local families

Best time: Any season. Avoid school holidays for smaller groups. Tours work year-round.

Meeting point: Reading Central Library

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Start Meet at Reading Central Library and receive overview of Reading's strategic importance during WWII - Guide explains why Reading was targeted by German bombers and civilian vulnerability.

First 20 min Learn about air raid warning systems, shelters, and civilian evacuation procedures - Hear stories from residents about taking shelter and the sound of sirens and explosions.

20-45 min Walk to former bomb sites and buildings damaged or destroyed during the Blitz - See current buildings and learn what stood there before bombing, with archival photographs for comparison.

45-70 min Focus on Home Guard operations and local defence preparations - Discover how Reading civilians were trained and organised to defend against potential German invasion.

Final 20 min Discuss post-war rebuilding and how Reading recovered and changed - Learn how bomb damage shaped the town's modern development and street layouts.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Reading Central Library.

• Hear personal testimonies from people who lived through the Blitz
• See locations of major bombing raids with archival photographs
• Learn about civilian shelters and air raid procedures
• Understand Reading's Home Guard role and local defence
• Explore how WWII shaped Reading's modern town centre
• Accessibility: Walking tour covers town centre on paved streets. Flat terrain suitable for most fitness levels. No stairs required. Wheelchair accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific mobility needs.

What is included: 1.5-hour guided walking tour, Stories and testimony from local residents, Archival photographs and historical documents, Expert guide commentary on WWII home front.

Not included: Museum entry beyond library facilities, Refreshments or meals, Specialist military history books or maps for purchase. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes for approximately 1.5 miles on city streets, Weather-appropriate clothing, Notebook to record personal stories, Warm jacket (can be outdoors in all seasons). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Any season. Avoid school holidays for smaller groups. Tours work year-round..

Tip: Features personal stories from local residents

Tip: Some sites now developed but context provided

Accessibility: Walking tour covers town centre on paved streets. Flat terrain suitable for most fitness levels. No stairs required. Wheelchair accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific mobility needs..

Operator: Local History Society

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Reading Museum (5 min walk)
• Reading Station and Railway Heritage (8 min walk)
• Forbury Gardens (10 min walk)

This activity is run by Local History Society.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before tour start.

Accessibility: Walking tour covers town centre on paved streets. Flat terrain suitable for most fitness levels. No stairs required. Wheelchair accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific mobility needs..

Best time to go: Any season. Avoid school holidays for smaller groups. Tours work year-round..

How heavily was Reading damaged during World War Two?

Reading experienced significant bombing throughout the war. The town centre and residential areas were hit multiple times, particularly during 1940-1941. Hundreds of homes were destroyed and many civilians killed. The tour shows how bombing shaped modern street layouts and building placement.

Can you see the actual air raid shelters?

Most original shelters are no longer accessible to the public as they've been built over or demolished. The tour discusses where shelters existed and their design. Some basements of surviving buildings still have shelter evidence. The guide uses photographs and explains how shelters functioned.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, suitable for ages 10+. The guide is sensitive to young listeners but doesn't hide the reality of wartime. The 1.5-hour duration works well for children. Stories focus on ordinary people rather than graphic violence. Family groups are common on these tours.