Refectory The refectory was where the monks ate all of their meals. In order to fit all of the monks in it was a large, grand space. This meant that it could also be used to host large, important meetings.
Mill Arch The small stream here called the Holy Brook that comes off the River Kennet, once powered the abbey's mill. Today all that remains are the stone arches that formed one
Dormitory Though the Abbey now stands in ruins, it was once one of England's most important religious centres full of monks who lived and prayed here. This area would have been
Chapter House The chapter house was the meeting room for the monks at the Abbey. Here they would discuss abbey business, receive important visitors and give out punishments to monks who had
Abbey Church Though only a little of the abbey church remains it was once one of the most important religious centres in England. No expense was spared in building the church and
The Blade The area that is now full of office blocks such as the glass 'Blade' building as well as the aptly named 'Abbey House' and 'Abbots House' was once the practical
Abbey Wharf The wharf was where boats unloaded supplies to the abbey. This was where all of the fine, limestone was delivered from Oxfordshire and Caen to build the abbey. It was
St James church If the abbey church was standing today, this location would be on the north side of the nave, looking towards the choir screen and high altar. St James' church opened
Forbury Hill In 1643 this hill was part of a ring of defences hastily dug out by a Royalist army defending Reading from attack by the Parliamentarians.
