Reading, town and unitary authority, southern England, at the junction of the Thames and Kennet rivers. The town is an important agricultural center with famous nursery gardens. Manufactures include machinery, metal products, and biscuits. In Reading are the remains of a Benedictine abbey founded 1121 by Henry I; the town also has a municipal museum and art gallery. The town is the seat of the University of Reading (1892) and a grammar school. The site of present-day Reading was occupied by the Danes in 871. The community was granted its first charter in 1253. In 1643, during the English Revolution, Reading surrendered to the Parliamentarians.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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