King's Meadow (Reading)

King's Meadow is a park in Reading, Berkshire located next to the River Thames. It stretches from the Coal Woodland to Meadow Road near Reading Bridge. It is visible from the railway when entering or leaving Reading railway station from the eastern side.

History

King's Meadow was a possession of Reading Abbey and was temporarily owned by the monarch after the dissolution. It is currently managed by Reading Borough Council. This area has long been used as the site of a variety of public events such as Reading market, a race course, Reading shows and fairs.

It is also the location of the disused King's Meadow swimming pool, which was built there in 1903.

Features

The park's landscape is open fields of short grass right up to the river bank, with some perimeter trees and an avenue from Napier Road. It is a popular picnic site with groups of mature trees. The park is prone to flooding, but there are playing fields used by the public and football clubs throughout the year.

There is a pleasant walk along the towpath up to Reading Bridge and Caversham Lock is at the eastern end. It is also a popular spot for mooring and fishing.

Events

It is the location of several annual events in Reading, such as Reading Pride and the Annual Beer Fest.

References

* [http://www.reading.gov.uk/leisureandculture/parksandopenspaces/parksandopenspaceslist/General.asp?id=SX9452-A77F9121 Reading Borough Council - King's Meadow]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/berkshire/content/articles/2004/08/10/kingsmeadowpool_feature.shtml BBC Berkshire - King's Meadow pool]