Novotel Reading Centre Exterior photoNovotel Reading Centre Exterior photoNovotel Reading Centre Exterior photo
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From81US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

25B Friar Street, Reading, United Kingdom, RG1 1DP
-
Close to The Museum of Reading
Very good
7.9
8.2
/10
4.1
3.9
/5

Situated approximately 5 minutes' walk from The Museum of Reading, the 4-star Novotel Reading Centre hotel boasts 24-hour reception and wake-up calls. The hotel, located a few moments from Reading Crown Court Courthouse, features a restaurant.

Location

You'll need 36-minute drive to London Heathrow airport. The Riverside Museum at Blake's Lock is just 1.2 km away, while Forbury Gardens is about 400 metres from this Reading hotel.

Reload Reading is nearly 25 minutes' walk away, while Reading is situated just around the corner from the Novotel.

Friar Street bus stop is also 450 m from the accommodation.

Rooms

The rooms comprise a seating area complete with an iron with ironing board, as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Bathrooms have a separate toilet and a shower, along with a hair dryer and bath sheets.

Eat & Drink

Breakfast is available from 06:30 till 10:00. Burger King is situated within reach of the Novotel Reading.

Leisure & Business

The availability of a steam room, a sauna, and an indoor pool guarantees guests a relaxing stay.

“This is a modern property that stands out for its leisure facilities, particularly the pool, sauna, and steam room - a rarity in Reading. For families, the room layouts are thoughtfully designed and children enjoy free breakfast. I think its location just a two-minute walk from the train station makes it a practical choice, though parking can be tricky.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
Executive Room
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
22 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Room Mobility Accessible
2 persons
24 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Room Room Only Non refundable
2 persons
24 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Rates & availability calendar

See current prices and availability for your chosen dates!

Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable
Facilities: Great
8.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Sauna
  • Steam room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Direct dial telephone
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The onsite dining option at Novotel Reading Centre offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for guests seeking a culinary escape. With a menu inspired by international flavors and a setting designed for comfort and enjoyment, it invites travelers to indulge in delightful dining experiences any time of day.
Novotel Reading Centre Restaurant photo
Novotel Reading Centre Restaurant photo
Novotel Reading Centre Restaurant photo

Gourmet

International
Ambiance
Bright and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Key Offerings
Enjoy tempting food and drinks from an internationally-inspired menu, featuring favorites like hot hash browns with baked beans and an enticing bakery selection. Ideal for families and special occasions.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 06:30 to 22:00, serving Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, High tea, and Cocktail hour.

Hotel location

25B Friar Street, Reading, United Kingdom, RG1 1DP
Map view
25B Friar Street, Reading, United Kingdom, RG1 1DP
Nearby
Museum
The Museum of Reading
270 m
Park
Forbury Gardens
390 m
The Oracle Shopping Centre
Reading
550 m
Art object
Statue of Queen Victoria
190 m
Mall
The Oracle
590 m
Church
Greyfriars Church
250 m
Church
Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin
260 m
Church
St Laurence's Church
250 m
Gallery
The Lemon Grove Gallery Ltd
260 m
6 Abbey Street
Chestnut Walk
520 m
Mall
Broad Street Mall
320 m
26 The Forbury
Maiwand Lion
380 m
Night club
Q Club
80 m
1 Queen's Rd
Grosvenor Casino Reading Central
460 m
Reading Museum
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
220 m
Mall
John Lewis & Partners
220 m
Restaurants
Revolucion de Cuba Reading
10 m
138-141 Friar Street
Cosmo
60 m
35-38 Friar Street
Treatz Reading
50 m
29 Friar Street
Pitcher & Piano
70 m
18 Friar Street
Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar at Malmaison Reading
140 m
18-20 Station Road Great Western House
Kokoro
110 m
13 Queen Victoria Street
Malmaison
180 m
18-20 Station Road Great Western House
Memory Of Sichuan
120 m
109 Friar Street
Nibsy's
200 m
26 Cross Street
Itsu
170 m
31 Queen Victoria Street
Explore Reading
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Museum of Reading
The Museum of Reading
4 minutes' walk
A journey through Reading's history with fascinating exhibits on local heritage and culture.
Reading Abbey Ruins
Reading Abbey Ruins
17 minutes' walk
Historic ruins of a once-great abbey, featuring lovely gardens and insights into medieval life.
Forbury Gardens
Forbury Gardens
5 minutes' walk
Beautifully landscaped gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or photography.
Douai Abbey
Douai Abbey
10 minutes' walk
Tranquil abbey offering serene surroundings, well-maintained gardens, and spiritual reflections.
Deadlocked Escape Rooms
11 minutes' walk
Challenging escape rooms with exciting themes, perfect for thrill-seekers and team-building.
Reading Cycle Hire
8 minutes' walk
Bike rental service offering a fun way to explore local parks and scenic routes nearby.
Revolucion de Cuba Reading
Revolucion de Cuba Reading
1 minute' walk
Vibrant Cuban-themed restaurant serving tapas and cocktails with a lively atmosphere.
Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar at Malmaison Reading
Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar at Malmaison Reading
2 minutes' walk
Stylish brasserie with a contemporary menu featuring British classics and a comfortable ambiance.
South Street Arts Centre
South Street Arts Centre
11 minutes' walk
Eclectic venue hosting live music, theater, and art events that cater to diverse tastes.
The Oracle
The Oracle
8 minutes' walk
Shopping and entertainment complex with cinemas, restaurants, and lively events throughout the year.
Local transport and travel tips
City Centre
Reading5 min  ·  400 m
Airports
London Heathrow (LHR)68 min  ·  44.7 km
Southampton (SOU)110 min  ·  73.2 km
Train
Reading Train Station4 min  ·  300 m
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  100 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site (reservation might be needed) at GBP 20 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP18 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Japanese, Polish, Tagalog / Filipino
Number of floors:
13
Number of rooms:
179

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Novotel Reading Centre from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Novotel Reading Centre is appreciated for its convenient location, especially its proximity to the train station and town centre restaurants. Guests often find the rooms lovely and spacious, and some have enjoyed the spa facilities that stay open late. While some guests have occasionally noted issues with the older rooms, many appreciate the option to book parking and the overall cleanliness and modern feel of the hotel's downstairs lobby.
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Review score
Based on 1108 verified reviews
7.8/10
Very good
76%
Recommend
Location
8.9/10
Staff
8.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
5.9/10
Breakfast
7.7/10
Pros
Great location
Helpful staff
Comfortable room
Cons
Failing key cards
Guest reviews
based on 1108 reviews
7.8/10
based on 1737 reviews
4/5
based on 2537 reviews
7.9/10
rowan from united kingdom
Single
standard twin room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 14, 2025
9.4/10

central hotel stay

convenient locationquiet roomefficient staffabsent air conditioning
the location proved convenient for moving around without a car. rooms on the higher floors were calm and quiet. staff members were efficient and always ready to satisfy requests. breakfast each day included a delicious array of options.
i noticed the absence of working air conditioning in the rooms. The hotel cited a "green" initiative as the reason. this policy caused the rooms to become hot, stuffy, and rather suffocating. i found this quite uncomfortable.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast service started early. This was greatly appreciated. there was lots of choice and the food was delicious and ready , as early as 06:50 each morning. it made a significant difference to my travel plans.
Location
10/10
The hotel benefits from a central location, close to shops and restaurants. nearby car parks, like broad street mall, offered discounted rates, i found. the rail station is also a short walk away. This enhances accessibility.
Rooms
9/10
my room was quite spacious, and the bed was comfortable. the room was very clean and tidy. i found the space adequate for both rest and relaxation.
Facilities
9/10
i appreciate the gym, pool, sauna, and steam room access at this hotel. i found the pool to be of a fantastic size, it included a few sun loungers around it. this made the facilities especially enjoyable.
Service
10/10
reception staff members marissa and hind were super efficient and very cute. they made a nice change to the usual reception one gets. their service was notably pleasant and helpful.
0 Helpful
|
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Jacob from United Kingdom
Business traveller
Standard Twin Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 16, 2025
8.7/10

Excellent Location and Cleanliness

rail stationtown centreleisure facilitieshotel staff
The hotel is in close proximity to the rail station and the town centre, a great convenience for travel and exploration. I presented my parking ticket at reception and got a discount for the Broad Street Mall car park. The breakfast offered a lot of choices (especially English style) and the leisure facilities also seemed nice. The hotel staff was helpful during check-in.
The tea and coffee facilities provided in the room were a bit limited.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast area features a wide selection of hot and cold items, including pastries, cereals, and cooked options. there is fresh fruit available. There are several tables with enough space between them, which helps with navigating during busy times. The staff keeps the area clean and well-stocked during service hours.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel features a spa area, it includes a swimming pool and a fitness center (I saw 3 treadmills there). The reception operates 24 hours a day. Staff ensured prompt assistance at all times. There is also convenient access to nearby shopping and dining options.
Rooms
9/10
The room was kept very clean , and it was quite spacious. It had a comfortable bed and ample storage space for luggage and personal items. The bathroom included complimentary toiletries and fresh towels daily.
0 Helpful
|
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FAQs
About Novotel Reading Centre
What are the check-in and check-out times at Novotel Reading Centre?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
How far is Novotel Reading Centre from Reading Train Station?
The hotel is located just 0.3 km from Reading Train Station.
What amenities does Novotel Reading Centre offer for leisure activities?
The hotel features a fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.
Are pets allowed at Novotel Reading Centre?
Pets are permitted for a small fee.
What dining options are available at Novotel Reading Centre?
The hotel has an on-site restaurant, Elements, which serves an international menu.
How can guests access Wi-Fi at Novotel Reading Centre?
Wi-Fi is available for free in all guest rooms.
Is parking available at Novotel Reading Centre?
Private parking is available on-site for £20 per day, and reservation is required.
What nearby attractions are close to Novotel Reading Centre?
Nearby attractions include Forbury Gardens (0.5 km), The Oracle Shopping Mall (0.5 km), and The Museum of Reading (1 km).
What are the breakfast hours at Novotel Reading Centre?
Breakfast is served from 06:30 to 10:00 on weekdays and from 07:00 to 11:00 on weekends.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Novotel Reading Centre?
The staff primarily speak English.
What room amenities are available at Novotel Reading Centre?
Rooms include air conditioning, a minibar, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Are there any specific offers for families at Novotel Reading Centre?
Up to two children under 16 stay free and receive free breakfast when sharing a room with adults.
What transportation options are available near Novotel Reading Centre?
Reading Train Station is a 2-minute walk away, with direct trains to London Paddington taking approximately 30 minutes.
What facilities are available for business travelers at Novotel Reading Centre?
The hotel provides business services and meeting facilities for business travelers.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room