Reading's lost railway

Step into the past and uncover the hidden history of Reading’s lost railway! Once a bustling lifeline for industry and commerce, the railway to Reading Central Goods Depot played a vital role in the town’s development. Now largely forgotten, its traces still linger beneath modern streets—waiting to be explored.
 

Join our expert guides on this fascinating walking tour as we retrace the tracks of a railway that once connected Reading’s industries to the wider world. Opened in the early 20th century, the line served the Central Goods Depot, handling coal, grain, and other essential supplies that powered the town. For decades, steam engines rumbled through Reading, supplying local businesses and shaping the landscape.
 

Along the route, you’ll uncover hidden relics of this lost line, from old bridges to the subtle remains of sidings and embankments. Learn about the industries that thrived because of the railway and hear stories of the workers who kept it running.
 

We’ll explore the impact of the railway’s closure—how roads and buildings replaced the once-thriving freight yards, and how the echoes of the past still shape Reading today. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about the town’s hidden past, this tour offers a unique glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Reading’s story.

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Tour starts from outside 256 Wensley Road, RG1 6DP. (What3Words location - friday.listed.beams) 

Amount of walking - approximately 2 miles

Length of time - approximately 75 minutes

Tour finishes in Fobney Street, RG1

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Please note this is a linear walk that finishes some way from the start point which is served by the 11 bus.