Caversham Court

Caversham Court is a public garden along the Thames in Reading that spans about 1.3 hectares with terraced lawns and established trees. The property includes a 17th-century pavilion positioned on a terrace overlooking the river, with pathways connecting different sections of the grounds.

The site began as a Tudor-era mansion called the Striped House before Reading Corporation purchased and transformed it into public gardens in 1934. This transition marked a shift from private residence to a space accessible to the wider community.

The gardens host outdoor theater performances throughout the warmer months, providing a natural stage for local productions and festivals. This cultural role has transformed the space into a gathering place for arts enthusiasts in the area.

The garden is open daily from early morning until dusk year-round, with no admission fee, except on Christmas Day. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the terraced layout and the sloped access down to the riverbank.

The gazebo dates to around 1663 and ranks among the oldest surviving structures of its kind in England with Grade II listed status. Its position on the highest terrace provides an unexpected view across the river that visitors often discover only when exploring the upper reaches of the grounds.

Location: Reading

GPS coordinates: 51.46800,-0.98000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:03