Basildon Park

An elegant 18th-century Georgian mansion set in parkland, managed by the National Trust. This Palladian-style house features impressive architecture, period rooms, and beautiful grounds, offering insights into Georgian country house life and handsome views over the Thames Valley. It sits in Reading's Caversham, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Reading, especially paired with nearby Thames Path To Pangbourne. Tickets cost £15 adult, £7.50 child, free for National Trust members and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: outstanding example of georgian architecture with Skip if: You have limited mobility or aren't interested in historic houses Cost: £15 adult, £7.50 child, free for National Trust members

You'll explore beautifully preserved Georgian rooms filled with period furniture and artwork, then wander through landscaped grounds with far-reaching views. The house's elegant proportions and decorative details showcase 18th-century craftsmanship at its finest.

Accessibility: Ground floor accessible, stairlift to first floor, accessible parking and toilets available

Outstanding example of Georgian architecture with beautiful grounds and period interiors. It is not the first thing you should see in Reading, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Thames Path To Pangbourne and Caversham Bridge and Thames Path - together they fill a solid half-day.

Skip if: You have limited mobility or aren't interested in historic houses

• Download the National Trust app for self-guided tours.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring grounds.
• Check event calendar for special exhibitions.

Insider tip: The Octagon Room offers some of the finest Georgian interior decoration in the region

Interior photography allowed without flash. Grounds photography welcome. Some restrictions in special exhibition areas.