Ghosts of Reading Past

Unsolved murders, serial killers, pirates, slave traders and royalty. From famed to infamous, this walk will explore a spookier side to the town of Reading, venturing to places where real ghost sightings have been recorded. Bringing the dead to life will be some fabulous drag performers Big Jay and Philli Mi Up, who will also share some verified historical facts along the way because this town is more fascinating than it may seem. Sceptics and believers of adult age are all welcome, guided by an experienced ghost hunter who has encountered the paranormal on multiple occasions and survived to tell us their tales. We all know that King Henry I may be buried under one of our many car parks, but there is plenty more beneath the surface to unearth. Join us and a myriad of restless souls, as we seek to finish their business.

This is a relaxed, gentle walk, depending on your sensibilities, with six stops including start and finish.

Walk length / difficulty / accessibility
2 km / 1 mile / 1 hour / easy / step-free and wheelchair accessible (tried and tested)
Toilet stops will be available along the route 

About the walk leaders
Big Jay is a drag monarch from Reading; a non-binary person of colour wheel putting the "er" in gender expression. Philli Mi Up is also returning to their hometown, a drag performer, academic and activist now based in Birmingham. Philli is a big believer in ghosts, with extensive experience in hunting and summoning, whilst Jay is very, very sceptical. Who knows what we'll encounter on our spooky tour!           

Getting there
Thames Lido is a short walk from Reading Station and town centre bus routes
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