Reading in November: Bonfire Night, Weather and Where to Stay

A practical guide to enjoying Reading in November, from fireworks and frosty mornings to the best areas to book a hotel.

Bonfire Night in Reading

Fireworks displays in Reading usually take place on or around 5 November. The biggest is at Reading Stadium, where the council runs a family-friendly event with a bonfire, funfair and food stalls. Tickets are affordable and sell out, so book online in advance. The stadium is a 15-minute walk from Reading station or a short taxi ride. Wrap up warm; the stands are open to the elements. For a quieter alternative, check local pubs in Caversham and Tilehurst, which often host smaller displays.

Wrap up warm; the stands are open to the elements. For a quieter alternative, check local pubs in Caversham and Tilehurst, which often host smaller displays. Wrap up warm; the stands are open to the elements. For a quieter alternative, check local pubs in Caversham and Tilehurst, which often host smaller displays. Wrap up warm; the stands are open to the elements. For a quieter alternative, check local pubs in Caversham and Tilehurst, which often host smaller displays. Wrap up warm; the stands are open to the elements. For a quieter alternative, check local pubs in Caversham and Tilehurst, which often host smaller displays.

November Weather and What to Pack

November in Reading is cool and often damp. Average highs hover around 10°C, lows near 4°C, and rain is frequent. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for walking on wet pavements. Daylight fades by 4:30pm, so plan outdoor activities for the morning. The River Thames path can be muddy; wear boots if you intend to walk to Sonning or Caversham. Indoor attractions like the Museum of English Rural Life and Reading Museum are good rain backups. A compact umbrella is essential.

Pack layers, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for walking on wet pavements. Daylight fades by 4:30pm, so plan outdoor activities for the morning. The River Thames path can be muddy; wear boots if you intend to walk to Sonning or Caversham. Indoor attractions like the Museum of English Rural Life and Reading Museum are good rain backups. A compact umbrella is essential. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for walking on wet pavements. Daylight fades by 4:30pm, so plan outdoor activities for the morning. The River Thames path can be muddy; wear boots if you intend to walk to Sonning or Caversham. Indoor attractions like the Museum of English Rural Life and Reading Museum are good rain backups. A compact umbrella is essential.

Where to Stay: Neighbourhoods and Hotels

For convenience, stay near Reading station in the town centre. The area around Friar Street and Station Road has a cluster of hotels, from budget chains like Premier Inn and Travelodge to mid-range options such as the Novotel. Expect to pay £60–£120 per night in November, with higher rates on Bonfire Night weekend. This base puts you within walking distance of the Oracle shopping centre, restaurants and the train station for trips to London (25 minutes) or Oxford (30 minutes).

If you prefer a quieter setting, consider Caversham, just across the Thames. It has independent shops, riverside pubs and a village feel, with hotels like the Crowne Plaza Reading (actually in Caversham) offering views over the river. Rates are similar to the centre, but you'll need a taxi or a 20-minute walk to the station. For a countryside retreat, the Roseate Reading (near the station) or the Forbury Hotel (central) offer luxury. I would book the Novotel for a mid-range stay: it's clean, central and has family rooms.

What to Skip and Final Tips

Skip the open-top bus tour in November; it's cold and the commentary is better enjoyed in summer. Also, avoid driving into the town centre on Bonfire Night unless you have pre-booked parking; roads around the stadium close early. Instead, use the park-and-ride at Madejski Stadium or take the bus. Many restaurants get busy, so reserve a table for dinner. If you're visiting for the fireworks, book your hotel at least a month ahead to secure the best rates.

For a different evening, try the Reading Biscuit Factory, a cinema and arts venue in the town centre, or catch a show at the Hexagon theatre. November also brings the Reading Winter Wonderland (usually late November to early January) with ice skating and market stalls. Check dates before you travel. Finally, remember that the train station is a 10-minute walk from most central hotels; taxis are readily available but surge pricing can apply on event nights.

Questions, answered

Are there fireworks in Reading for Bonfire Night?

Yes, the main display is at Reading Stadium, usually on or near 5 November. It features a bonfire, funfair and food stalls. Tickets should be bought in advance online. Smaller displays happen at local pubs, but the stadium event is the most popular.

What is the weather like in Reading in November?

November is cool and often wet, with average highs around 10°C and lows near 4°C. Rain is common, so pack waterproofs and layers. Daylight ends by 4:30pm, so plan outdoor activities for the morning.

Where should I stay for Bonfire Night in Reading?

For the stadium event, hotels near Reading station are convenient; it's a 15-minute walk. Book early, as rates rise on Bonfire Night weekend. The Novotel and Premier Inn are good mid-range choices. Caversham offers quieter options but requires a taxi.

← Reading's page