Your Home Away From Home
Welcome to the UK, Moderna team!
Congratulations to the Moderna team embarking on an exciting new journey in Reading, UK! As you take on this temporary assignment, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless transition and a welcoming experience in your new home. Here’s to new challenges, personal growth, and the incredible impact you’ll make. Best of luck, and enjoy every moment of this adventure!
First, who are we? Dwellworks Living is a temporary housing solutions provider to help you find the perfect home away from home for our guests. We do this thanks to our deep portfolio of 80,000 corporate housing property partners – offering both hotel and apartment accommodations around the world.
On this page you will find more information about what to expect in Reading as you go on assignment. There is also information about what to bring, important contacts, and a timeline of when you should be expecting information and updates along the way.
One of the largest towns in the UK, Reading is well known for its annual Reading Festival attracting artists and fans from around the world. Not only is Reading a popular destination for shopping and nightlife but it has a proud tradition in sport with Reading FC and London Irish RFC who play at the Madejski Stadium.
We look forward to hosting you!
Reading, UK Key Facts
- In the County of Berkshire
- Thames Valley Region
- 40 miles west of London
- Population 175,000 (approx.)
- Excellent transport links (road, rail, bus)
- A major commercial centre – IT & Insurance
- Direct train service to London (22 minutes)
Weather in the UK
Reading, UK experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and cool, comfortable summers. Rainfall is consistent throughout the year, while temperatures vary modestly between seasons.
Average Temperatures in Reading, UK (High & Low by Month):
- January: High 7°C (45°F), Low 1°C (34°F)
- February: High 8°C (46°F), Low 1°C (34°F)
- March: High 11°C (52°F), Low 3°C (37°F)
- April: High 14°C (57°F), Low 5°C (41°F)
- May: High 18°C (64°F), Low 8°C (46°F)
- June: High 21°C (70°F), Low 11°C (52°F)
- July: High 23°C (73°F), Low 13°C (55°F)
- August: High 22°C (72°F), Low 13°C (55°F)
- September: High 20°C (68°F), Low 11°C (52°F)
- October: High 15°C (59°F), Low 8°C (46°F)
- November: High 10°C (50°F), Low 4°C (39°F)
- December: High 8°C (46°F), Low 2°C (36°F)
Transportation
Trains – Reading Station
- Overground rail services throughout the UK (22 minutes to London Paddington Station)
- Details of services via National Railopens in a new tab
- Direct Connection to the London Underground via The Elizabeth Line opens in a new tab(1 hour to Central London)
Planes – Heathrow Airport
- 1 hour to Reading via The Elizabeth Line
- 40 minutes via Busopens in a new tab
Coach – Reading Station
- Coach services throughout the UK, National Expressopens in a new tab is the main provider, although there are alternatives
Car Hire
- All the major car hire companies are available: Hertzopens in a new tab, Enterpriseopens in a new tab, Thriftyopens in a new tab, Europcaropens in a new tab
- Remember, we drive on the left in the UK!
Read Here About Staying in Furnished Apartments
- All linen and bedding is provided. Cleaning and linen change weekly. Your apartment manager will advise on which day your apartment will be serviced
- No smoking in designated public areas or inside apartments
- Noise levels to be observed as per any residential property
- Any issues contact the property directly via the reception or the emergency number
- Fire regulations and exit procedures are displayed in each apartment
- In the event of any emergency dial 999. This will connect you with police, fire and ambulance services
- Grocery and take away food deliveries are accepted
General Information on Living in the UK
- Nearest Hospital – Royal Berkshire Hospitalopens in a new tab, London Road RG1 5AN
- Nearest Pharmacy – Bootsopens in a new tab, Upper Ground Level, The Oracle Centre RG1 2AH
- Shops – Major Supermarkets and retail outlets are open 7 days per Week Mon-Sat 7am-10pm Sun & public holidays 10am – 4pm
- All shops are closed on Christmas Day (some pubs open at lunch)
- All the major UK banks have branches in the city centre, Cashpoints are available at shops and banks in all town centres in the UK
- Public Holidays – Public Holidays – 25th December – Christmas Day -26th Dec Boxing day. New Years Day 1st Jan
- Smoking and Vaping are illegal in public spaces including public transport
- Currency – £ Pounds and Pence – Currently 1 USD = 77p, 10 USD = £7.70 (11/5/24)
- Currency exchange – numerous exchange outlets and banks in the Oracle & Broad Street shopping centres
- Use of debit/credit cards and contactless payments is now almost universal. Some retailers may not accept AMEX 3
- Electric sockets – UK operates on 230V supply and 50Hz Using a US travel adapter in the UK (Informational Website on Voltage and Converters for living in the UKopens in a new tab)
What to do in and around Reading
- Visit Forbury Gardens – a public park over 900 years old. Whilst there visit Reading Abbey, former grounds of Reading Royal Abbey and burial place of King Henry I
- Visit the Victorian Town Hall and Reading Museum which includes a copy of the Bayeux Tapestry
- The Hexagon is a multi purpose theatre and arts venue
- Reading Town Hall Christmas Market – get into the Christmas spirit with some shopping and food stalls
- Vue Cinema – All the latest movies
- Swim in the Thames Lido – built in 1902. Outdoor swimming all year round
- “The Alehouse” on Broad St – for anyone seeking a British Pub
What to do around Reading - Spectator Sports
- Football (Soccer) Reading FCopens in a new tab – “opens in a new tabThe Royals”opens in a new tab, Play in League 1 (3rd tier of English Football)
- Nearest Premier League club – Brentford FC; Other London based Premier League teams – Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham, Tottenham, Fulham
- Rugby – 2 Semi Professional Clubs in Reading
- American Football – The “Berkshire Renegades”opens in a new tab
- Basketball – The “Reading Rocketsopens in a new tab” Semi Professional
Day trips from Reading
- London – 22 minutes by direct train
- Oxford, home of the famous University, magnificent architecture – 21 minutes by train
- Windsor Castle – 1000 year old Royal Palace – 45 minutes by train
- Bath – Home of the famous Roman Baths & Spa – 55 minutes by train
- Vue Cinema – All the latest movies
- Thames Valley Park – 80 acres of beautiful natural habitat to explore – free bus from Reading Station
- Salisbury – Home of the famous cathedral – the UK’s tallest Church Spire – 1 hour 15 minutes by train
Enjoy the holidays in the United Kingdom
Spending the holidays in Reading, UK, will offer you a delightful experience of British holiday traditions that differ in charming ways from those in the U.S. One of the first things you’ll notice is the festive atmosphere that fills the town from late November onwards, with beautifully decorated streets, Christmas lights, and bustling holiday markets. Instead of “Happy Holidays,” people often say “Merry Christmas,” and holiday crackers—small, festive party favors that pop open to reveal a small gift and paper hat—are a traditional addition to Christmas meals. You’ll also find that mince pies and mulled wine are popular seasonal treats, adding a cozy warmth to the chilly winter evenings.
Expect Christmas Day itself to be a quieter day, as most stores and restaurants close, allowing everyone to spend time with family and friends. Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is another unique tradition. It’s often spent shopping (as it marks the start of the UK’s post-holiday sales) or relaxing with loved ones. Additionally, you may notice that certain holiday shows and pantomimes—a playful, often interactive theater tradition—are popular around this time and are worth experiencing. Enjoy immersing yourself in the British holiday spirit and discovering these endearing local customs!
If your loved ones are traveling to visit you in Reading, UK, they’ll likely find the most convenient airport to be London Heathrow (LHR), as it’s the closest major international airport to the city. From Heathrow, the easiest way to reach Reading is by taking the direct rail service from Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 or the Heathrow Central Bus Station to Reading Station. The train journey is typically quick, around 30 minutes, making it a comfortable and efficient option. Alternatively, there are bus services and car hire options available if they prefer a different route. Once in Reading, they’ll find it easy to navigate the city by foot or with the local bus system, making it simple to explore and enjoy their visit!
Pack Smart: Essentials for a Comfortable and Hassle-Free Stay Abroad
Packing the right items for an extended stay abroad ensures you’re prepared for the climate, local customs, and any specific daily needs, making your adjustment smoother and more enjoyable. With essentials on hand, you can avoid spending extra money or time sourcing familiar items in an unfamiliar place. A thoughtfully packed suitcase also helps maintain your comfort and productivity, letting you focus more on the experience than on what you might have forgotten.
Essentials
- Passport & Visa Documents: Keep all necessary identification and travel documents handy.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers any health or travel needs.
- UK Adapter Plug: For charging your electronics.
- Bank Cards: Notify your bank of your travel to avoid any issues.
- Important Documents: Copies of your lease agreement, health insurance info, and any necessary local contacts.
- Travel Guide or Map App: Helps with navigating the area and understanding public transportation.
Clothing
- Layers: Temperatures can vary, so pack items you can layer, such as t-shirts, long sleeves, and cardigans.
- Warm Outerwear: A waterproof jacket or coat for rainy days is essential.
- Umbrella: Compact for everyday carry.
- Waterproof Footwear: Ideal for the UK’s rainy climate.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Cities and towns are very walkable.
- Smart-Casual Outfits: Useful for work or going out, as many establishments are casual but stylish.
Toiletries & Personal Care
- Prescription Medications: Bring a supply and necessary documentation for any medications.
- Toiletries: Most can be purchased locally, but you may want to bring travel sizes for your arrival.
- Travel-Sized First Aid Kit: Basic items like pain relievers, plasters, and any allergy meds.
Electronics
- Unlocked Phone: To use with a UK SIM card.
- Laptop & Chargers: If working remotely or for personal use.
- Power Bank: Handy for days out, especially when navigating.
Household Items
- Reusable Shopping Bags: Stores charge for plastic bags.
- Compact Reusable Water Bottle: Many places offer free water refills.
Personal Comforts
- Favorite Snacks or Pantry Items: Certain American foods may not be available in the UK.
- Photos or Small Mementos: To make your living space feel like home.
- Journal/Notepad: Useful for tracking experiences or organizing your time.
Properties
We’re thrilled to welcome everyone on the Moderna temporary assignment to their new home in Reading, where you’ll be staying at one of our three exceptional properties designed for comfort and convenience. Explore the links below for detailed property information, and get ready for an enjoyable stay tailored to meet all your needs during this exciting project!
Important Contacts Before and During Your Stay:
Leading up to, or during your stay, please feel free to reach out to us with any questions, comments, or issues at: [email protected].
If you have an after-hours apartment emergency, please call: +44 (0) 1872 308723
*Please note: An after hours apartment emergency is a non-life threatening emergency such as being locked out of your housing, a utility outage or any other issue that makes the apartment uninhabitable. If there is a life threatening emergency, please call 999.
Xplore App
Every Moderna employee relocating to Reading will soon be granted access to the Xplore app, our city-guide-in-your-pocket app, at no charge to you!
Content is curated from thousands of traveler inputs and the content is curated from thousands of traveler inputs and the expertise of Dwellworks Destination Consultants worldwide. Our team of area experts has recommended their personal favorites from food to arts and entertainment, to indoor and outdoor activities that will instantly immerse Guests into the local culture.
You will be able to use the Xplore app to learn about your new city, your surroundings, and make an easier transition as you focus your attention on the temporary assignment.
Share this information with your loved ones
There is a lot of information related to your new overseas temporary assignement and this page is meant to be a resource. Copy this link or share directly from the browser and let your loved ones know some of what is going on.