Down at the Abbey
| 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Days | Hours | Mins | Secs |
12 September - 13 September 2026
In September 2026, Reading Abbey ruins will come alive as Down at the Abbey returns for a magical two-day music festival. On the weekend of September 12-13, festival-goers are invited to gather in Reading to experience a blend of ancient history and vibrant entertainment. Set within the spectacular 900-year-old ruins of Reading Abbey - just a short walk from the town centre and train station - the festival offers an intimate yet lively atmosphere in the heart of Berkshire. With two stages of thrilling live music and a friendly, community-focused vibe, it's a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience history while enjoying great tunes alongside friends and family.
With two stages and no overlapping schedules, you can catch every performance without missing a beat. The carefully curated line-up brings together rising stars and beloved favourites from across the music spectrum - from indie folk and acoustic tunes to world music and electronic vibes. During the day, mellow guitar melodies drift through the abbey grounds; as evening falls, the energy ramps up into a magical dance party under the stars. Meander between stages, grab a drink and relax on the grass between sets, soaking in the music at your own pace. Whether you're dancing beneath ancient stone walls or lounging under the open sky, this festival experience is all about great tunes and good vibes.
Down at the Abbey truly becomes a festival for all ages. On Saturday, children can enjoy a variety of free activities - from arts and crafts to face-painting and storytelling - keeping young ones entertained while the music plays on. Parents will appreciate the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and ample open space within the Abbey grounds for kids to roam safely. It's a wonderful chance for everyone to share a fun day out together, whether that means dancing in the sun or exploring centuries-old ruins between sets.
You won't go hungry or thirsty at Down at the Abbey: a great selection of food and drink stalls have something for every taste. Sample the local flavour with award-winning Siren Craft Beer and crisp, refreshing ciders brewed right here in Berkshire. Gourmet street food vendors line the Abbey grounds, serving everything from wood-fired pizzas and juicy burgers to hearty vegetarian and vegan dishes. Gluten-free options are also available, so there's a delicious bite for every palate. Grab a plate (and perhaps a pint of cider) and take a seat anywhere you like - on the grass, by a picnic table, or a low wall - and recharge between the great performances.
Down at the Abbey is more than just a music festival - it's a celebration of music, community and history. Picture yourself dancing under the open sky with ancient stone walls around you, or taking a quiet moment to relax with friends in a peaceful corner of this historic site. With great music on two stages, delicious food and drink at every turn, and friendly faces all around, it's a weekend you won't soon forget. Come be a part of it and make some memories in one of Berkshire's most beautiful settings!
By train and bus, Down at the Abbey is easy to reach. Reading's main railway station (Reading Station) is only about a 5-10 minute walk from the Abbey Ruins at Abbot's Walk (postcode RG1 3BA). Regular Great Western Railway services connect Reading with London Paddington (around 30 minutes), as well as Oxford, Bristol and the West Country, making rail travel straightforward. Local bus routes also run around Reading's town centre – check Reading Buses for services that stop near Forbury Gardens or Broad Street, both just a short stroll from the Abbey quarter.
If you're driving, Reading is conveniently accessed via the M4 motorway (junctions 10-12) or the A33. Once in town, head towards the riverfront or station area to find the site. Please note there is no parking at the festival site or in the Abbey grounds. Instead, use public parking around the town centre or one of Reading's Park & Ride locations on the outskirts (for example, Green Park or Caversham), then take a short bus into town. Using these options or local multi-storey car parks can save time and hassle on a busy weekend.
By air, the nearest major airport is London Heathrow (about 20 miles / 30 km from Reading). Heathrow is well connected to Reading by rail and road, making it a popular choice. Other London airports include Gatwick (around 50 miles / 80 km) and Luton (around 60 miles / 95 km), each accessible by train via central London. National Express coaches also run to Reading from many UK cities, often stopping near the town centre. Reading itself offers a wide range of accommodation – from hotels and guest houses to serviced apartments – many of which are close to the station or town centre. Since Down at the Abbey events are single-day affairs with no on-site camping, it's wise to book accommodation early so you can stay comfortably nearby and walk to the festival.
Abbot's Walk, Reading, RG13BA
Festivals Near Abbot's Walk
