Reading ( ) is a large town, unitary authority area (the Borough of Reading) and urban area in South East England. For ceremonial purpose it is in the county of Berkshire and has served as the county town since 1867. Reading lies at the confluence of the River Thames and River Kennet, midway between London and Swindon off the M4 motorway.
Reading was an important national centre in the medieval period, as the site of an important monastery with strong royal connections, but suffered economic damage during the 17th century from which it took a long time to recover. Today it is again an important commercial centre, with strong links to information technology and insurance. It is also a university town, with two universities and a large student population.
Reading is now the largest town in England.
