Street Art and Modern Reading Tour

An exploration of Reading's contemporary street art scene, including the famous Banksy mural and works by local and international artists across the town. This 1.5-hour tour shows how Reading transformed its urban landscape through sanctioned murals and independent street art. You'll learn about the artists, techniques, and stories behind each piece. It appeals to younger visitors and anyone interested in how cities use art to reshape public spaces. Best for street art enthusiasts and younger visitors. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 2-15. You meet at Reading Town Centre, outside Broad Street Mall. Key highlights: The famous Banksy mural location revealed with expert commentary, Works by established local street artists, Understanding the difference between sanctioned and independent street art.

Price: £18

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-15

Minimum age: all ages

Best for: street art enthusiasts and younger visitors

Best time: April-October for good weather and photography light. Weekday mornings for smaller groups. Avoid midday summer heat.

Meeting point: Reading Town Centre, outside Broad Street Mall

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0:00 Meet outside Broad Street Mall and introduction to Reading's street art history - The guide introduces how Reading developed its street art scene and explains what distinguishes Banksy from contemporary muralists.

0:15 Walk to the famous Banksy mural location - The location is kept partly confidential to reduce vandalism, but once found, the guide explains the work's meaning and Banksy's typical themes.

0:40 Explore surrounding alleyways and streets for additional murals - You'll visit 4-6 different locations with art by local artists, discussing technique, artist backgrounds, and how the pieces were commissioned.

1:15 Discussion of street art legality, permissions, and the role of local government - The guide explains which murals are sanctioned versus independent, and Reading's approach to managing street art.

1:30 Walk through emerging art areas and new pieces - Final section covers areas where new art regularly appears, allowing for seasonal variation and updates.

1:30 Tour concludes with photography session and Q&A - Final minutes allow questions about artists, techniques, or recommendations for related art venues in Reading.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Reading Town Centre, outside Broad Street Mall.

• The famous Banksy mural location revealed with expert commentary
• Works by established local street artists
• Understanding the difference between sanctioned and independent street art
• Photography opportunities at each location
• Stories about individual artists and their creative processes
• Accessibility: The tour covers mixed terrain on pavements and some alleyways. Flat ground throughout. Wheelchair accessible for most locations, though some alleyways are narrow. Contact Urban Art Reading to confirm accessibility for specific needs.

What is included: Guided commentary on each artwork and artist, Walking route to 5+ murals, Information sheet on artists and techniques, Photography time at key locations.

Not included: Food or drinks, Transportation to/from meeting point, Art supplies or merchandise. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera or phone for photography, Comfortable walking shoes, Sunscreen for outdoor walking, Notepad for artist names or details. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April-October for good weather and photography light. Weekday mornings for smaller groups. Avoid midday summer heat..

Tip: Some murals change regularly

Tip: Photography encouraged

Accessibility: The tour covers mixed terrain on pavements and some alleyways. Flat ground throughout. Wheelchair accessible for most locations, though some alleyways are narrow. Contact Urban Art Reading to confirm accessibility for specific needs..

Operator: Urban Art Reading

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Reading Museum (8 min walk)
• Hexagon Theatre (5 min walk)

This activity is run by Urban Art Reading.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before. 50% refund 24-48 hours before. No refund within 24 hours..

Accessibility: The tour covers mixed terrain on pavements and some alleyways. Flat ground throughout. Wheelchair accessible for most locations, though some alleyways are narrow. Contact Urban Art Reading to confirm accessibility for specific needs..

Best time to go: April-October for good weather and photography light. Weekday mornings for smaller groups. Avoid midday summer heat..

Will I see the famous Banksy mural on the street art tour?

Yes, the tour includes the Banksy mural, though its exact location within Reading is revealed during the walk to prevent excessive foot traffic and damage. The guide provides context about the work and why Banksy created it.

Can I photograph the street art during the tour?

Photography is actively encouraged on this tour. All murals shown are in public spaces and photographing them is permitted. The guide will help you find the best angles for each piece and explains composition tips.

Do murals change between tours, and when are new works added?

The Banksy piece is permanent, but other murals are regularly refreshed or replaced as part of Reading's street art program. The guide notes that the tour's specific murals may shift seasonally. The core routes remain the same, but some secondary artworks may differ.