Reading Abbey Ruins

Reading Abbey Ruins are the impressive remains of one of the largest royal monasteries in Europe, founded in 1121 by King Henry I.

It's a place full of fascinating history, where you can admire preserved parts of the walls, treasury, chapter house and dormitory. The abbey was an important pilgrimage center with more than 230 relics, including the hand of St. James.

Interestingly, the abbey was the site of the earliest known British six-voice harmony 'Sumer is icumen in' from around 1240. Walking among the ruins, you can literally touch history dating back almost 900 years.