If you enjoy reading please consider “buying me a pint”, this will help to cover my hosting and image hosting and help to ensure further trips can go ahead!
BUY ME A PINT
A Guide to Unique Breweries and Pubs in Reading
I visit various pubs and breweries in Reading, showcasing their unique characteristics and offerings. The Greyfriar, established in 2014, combines modern charm with historical significance, while Blue Collar offers a casual atmosphere with diverse street food and craft beverages. The Nag’s Head emphasises community ties and traditional pub culture, whereas Castle Tap boasts a mix of historical roots and a relaxed vibe. Phantom Brewing Co. and Double-Barrelled highlight the local craft beer scene with innovative brews. Siren RG1, opened in 2024, continues this trend, and The Alehouse, with its focus on real ales, remains a beloved fixture in Reading’s pub landscape.
Reading, is a historic town in Berkshire and has a rich and fascinating past. Originally a Saxon settlement, it grew around Reading Abbey, founded by King Henry I in 1121. The abbey became a major religious and political centre until its destruction during Henry VIII’s reign. Reading thrived in the medieval wool trade and later became known for brewing, baking (Huntley & Palmers biscuits), and seed growing. The town played roles in the English Civil War and both World Wars. Today, it’s a vibrant place blending history with modern life, with landmarks, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique Berkshire heritage.
The Greyfriar
My first call today is to The Greyfriar. This opened in 2014, taking over a spot that used to be the Tudor Arms, then the Malthouse, just down the road from the station. Its name comes from the nearby Greyfriars Church, built by Franciscan monks way back in the 1200s. That church has had quite a history—it’s been a town hall, a prison, and was finally restored as a church in the 1800s. The pub might be new, but the name links it to one of Reading’s oldest stories.
From the outside, it’s got a clean, classic look that fits in with the old-meets-new feel of the area. Inside, it’s cosy and full of character—a wooden bar, wooden floors and comfy corners that make it feel welcoming without trying too hard. It’s not massive, but the space is well put together, with different spaces and big windows that keep things light and open. It’s the kind of place that feels familiar even if you’re dropping in for the first time.
A great warm welcome in here today and showcasing an impressive range of both cask and keg beers, alongside lots more on the fridge. In here I opted to go with “Addition +4” from local Phantom Brewing Co. A fantastic New England IPA hopped with Citra, Nelson, Mosaic and Strata. Super Hazy, Supper Hoppy and very enjoyable.
Blue Collar
Next up is Blue Collar. This is a laid-back, open-air food and drink venue built from a repurposed yard, offering a rotating selection of street food vendors alongside a well-stocked bar with craft beer, cider, wine, and cocktails. Spread over two levels with a rooftop terrace, beer garden, and indoor seating, the space accommodates seasonal changes with covered and heated areas. The venue regularly features independent traders ranging from bao buns and burgers to vegan tacos and also hosts DJs, events, and themed food festivals.
The bar at Blue Collar is super chill and perfect for grabbing a cold drink with friends. They’ve got ten taps, mostly local craft beers and ciders from Double-Barrelled Brewery, plus a decent lineup of cocktails, wine, and coffee. It’s the kind of place where you can try something new or stick with a classic pint. The feel is relaxed and friendly, with bartenders who know their stuff.
In here I went with a beer from local Double-Barrelled Brewery. “Springs” is a refreshing, tasting and extremely easy drinking New Zealand Pale Ale. A great mix of hops give some great peach, nectarine, apricot and mango flavours.
The Nag’s Head
A short walk brings me to The Nag’s Head on Russell Street in Reading. This has been a part of Reading’s pub scene since at least the mid-19th century. Tucked away just outside the town centre, it has long served the local community, from workers in the nearby biscuit factories to generations of residents in the surrounding streets. The pub has kept its independent spirit over the years, even as many others have changed hands or closed down. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and no-nonsense charm. Despite modern touches, the Nag’s Head remains rooted in tradition—an enduring piece of Reading’s social history with a loyal following.
Inside it’s warm, friendly, and full of character. There’s a big open space where people chat, play board games or darts, and just enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Out the back, there’s a cosy little beer garden with covered seating that’s great year-round. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels welcome—whether you’re popping in for a quiet one or meeting up with mates. No flash, just a proper local pub that does things right.
Another fantastic warm welcome in here and a brilliant choice of both cask and keg options from local brewers and further afield. I opted to go with a beer from a new brewery to me. “Hello My Names’s Pigeon” from Alton based Ten Tun Brew House was my choice. A super juicy New England IPA with some delicious flavours coming through.
Castle Tap
Next up is to Castle Tap. This sits on Castle Street and has been part of the town’s history since the 1800s. Originally called The Castle Hotel, it welcomed travellers and locals passing through the area. Over time, it changed names and roles, eventually becoming The Castle Tap in 2014. While it’s had a few makeovers, it’s kept its charm and connection to the community. Known for its laid-back vibe and regular events, it’s a spot where locals still gather, just as they have for over a century.
It stands out with its classic brick exterior, large windows, and traditional pub frontage that fits right into Reading’s town centre. Step inside and you’ll find a warm, relaxed space with wooden floors, mismatched furniture, and quirky décor that gives it a lived-in, welcoming feel. There’s a spacious main room with cosy corners, a small stage for live music, and a tucked-away beer garden out back.
A great warm welcome from behind the bar as soon as I walked in. Beer wise a great selection of both cask and keg beers to choose from. “OG” from LoveBeer Brewery in here for me. A very light and refreshing extra pale ale, very sessionable and easy drinking.
Phantom Brewing Co
Next to visit is Phantom Brewing Co.. This started back in 2013 in Reading when two homebrewers decided to turn their love for beer into something real. They focused on making bold, tasty beers with good ingredients and old-school brewing skills. People around town quickly loved their fresh and flavourful ales. Over time, they mixed up their lineup with everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. The brewery grew and got noticed all over the UK. Today, Phantom’s all about keeping things creative and making great craft beer that people actually want to drink.
Inside the taproom has a modern, industrial vibe with white brick walls and plenty of natural light when the front doors are open. The space feels open and airy, with wooden tables and comfy seating that make it easy to relax and hang out. There’s a cool mix of rustic and contemporary touches—think metal fixtures, concrete floors, and quirky brewery art on the walls. You can peek into the brewing area, giving the taproom a behind-the-scenes feel. Overall, it’s a welcoming, stylish spot that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the beer.
A fantastic food offering from 7Bone Burger Co which you can order from your table with lots of choice. Beer wise a great line up of 12 keg lines to choose from. Got chatting to a great local couple, was great to meet you both! I went with “Splash Zone” from Phantom Brewing Co. A delicious New England IPA, super hazy and super tasty hopped with Citra, Hallertau Blanc and Citra. Fantastic beer.
Double-Barrelled
Next was a short bus ride out to Double-Barrelled. This started in 2015 when Mike and Lucy Clayton-Jones turned their honeymoon beer adventures into a real-life brewing dream. What began in their garage soon grew into a full-fledged brewery, officially opening its doors in Reading in 2018. The name comes from their double-barrelled surname and their joint effort in building the business. Known for bold, modern beers—especially hoppy ones. They’ve built a strong reputation for quality and creativity.
The Double-Barrelled taproom is a laid-back, friendly spot right in the heart of their brewery. It’s got a cool industrial feel with long tables, fairy lights, and a super welcoming feel to the place. A seating area can be found outside at the front as well. There’s a food vendor today serving home made pizzas which smelt delicious.
A great warm welcome when I arrived today and a fantastic line up of 12 keg lines, alongside even more choice in the fridges with an array of cans. I went with one of their own sour beers “Peach Bellini”. A beer inspired by the classic cocktail, full of peach flavours. Super tart, sour and tasty.
Siren RG1
Next is onto Siren RG1. Siren Craft Brew started in 2013 in Finchampstead, Hampshire, founded by Darron Anley with a goal to bring more creativity and flavour to the UK craft beer scene. What began as a small team of three has grown into a thriving independent brewery with over 60 staff. They’ve earned a strong reputation both locally and internationally for their innovative approach and commitment to quality.
Their brewery is located outside of Reading in Finchampstead. Siren Craft RG1 opened in May 2024. Inside the vibe is modern and cosy with lots of natural light from big windows. The space features clean lines, natural wood, and comfy seating that makes it easy to relax on your own or with friends. The long bar adds a social buzz and friendly atmosphere. A large outdoor seating area to the side and one at the front adds extra space to enjoy a beer.
On the bar a great line up of 2 cask ales alongside 26 keg lines so there’s a lot on offer here and lots of different styles. “Slammer” from Siren Craft Brew was my choice in here. A sour beer inspired by the Hawaiian P.O.G Juice, giving a great variety of tropical fruits.
The Alehouse
Last up is The Alehouse. This has a long and interesting history. It’s been a pub for centuries, originally known as The London Tavern before becoming The Hobgoblin in the 1990s. Locals still sometimes call it that. In the early 2000s, it became The Alehouse and started focusing heavily on real ales and ciders. Over the years, it’s built a strong reputation among beer lovers, celebrating its 10,000th unique beer in 2022. It’s also picked up several CAMRA awards, including Pub of the Year in 2023. Through name changes and changing times, it’s remained a key part of Reading’s pub scene.
Inside it’s all about the beer and the atmosphere. There’s no music or TVs blaring, just people chatting over pints. The walls and ceilings are absolutely covered in old pump clips from thousands of beers they’ve served, which gives it a cool, lived-in feel. It’s cosy, a bit quirky, and full of little corners to settle into. You won’t find food here, just snacks like crisps or pickled eggs, but the beer choice makes up for it. It’s a no-phone zone too, which encourages proper conversation. Whether you’re a regular or a newcomer, it’s a relaxed and welcoming place.
Beer wise a line up of 8 cask ales, alongside a keg selection and a wide variety of European and other bottles to choose from. You certainly wont be stuck for choice here. A new brewery on the bar in here for me today. “IPA25” From Sherfield Village Brewery was my choice. A great strong IPA full of flavour, tasty and easy drinking.
Micropub Adventures 