by Jan Beukes

Created on: November 27, 2009

The Crowne Plaza, Reading is a Four Star hotel situated on the banks of the River Thames overlooking the Swan Sanctuary next to the Caversham Bridge. This tranquil hotel is easily accessible from the M4 and Heathrow Airport. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the river where guests can watch all the boats passing by.

Reading Train Station is only 500 metres away, just a ten to fifteen minute walk or short bus ride. The Crowne Plaza has its own car park offering 200 free spaces. The town centre with the fabulous Oracle Shopping Centre, cafes and restaurants on the banks of the Kennet & Avon Canal, is about a twenty to twenty-five minute walk or there are several buses that stop right by the hotel. There are beautiful walks along the banks of the River Thames where Cormorants and the Grey Heron can be easily spotted. Looking carefully, you may also catch a glimpse of a Kingfisher. There are various

boat trips which can be taken in both directions which pick up right by the hotel.

The 122 guestrooms, decorated in a contemporary style, are clean and spacious as would be expected of a hotel of this standard. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, satellite television, high speed Internet, mini bar, safe and bathrobes. The beds are comfortable with plenty of pillows and quality linen. There is tea and coffee making facilities and a small fridge. The room is also equipped with iron and ironing board, hairdryer and bathroom products.

The Crowne Plaza features the Revive Health Club and Spa which includes an indoor 17 metre swimming pool with Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and fitness equipment. The spa has five beauty treatment rooms offering a full range of treatments.

The dining room and bar area are very pleasant with large glass doors and windows with lovely views over the River Thames. The variety of food available for breakfast is very good with traditional English as well as plenty of healthy options. The Acqua Restaurant, awarded 2 AA Rosettes, with its contemporary decor, has a good variety of meals for those who do not wish to explore outside of the hotel and the service was of a good standard. Seasonal dishes are made from fresh local produce and alfresco dining on the patio, overlooking the River Thames, is a very pleasant experience. There are many cheaper choices of restaurant within walking distance of the hotel or a short drive into Reading. Exploring some of the surrounding villages such as Sonning will give a great opportunity to sample some of the wonderful restaurantsaround.

Six meeting rooms can accommodate up to 200 people. The Caversham Business Centre opens until late, offering a computer with wireless Internet access (surcharge). Windrush 46, the Crowne Plaza Reading's very own luxury motor launch, is available for private charter along the River Thames and is ideal for corporate or private entertaining with a full range of onboard catering. The hotel is also an ideal wedding venue licenced for Civil Ceremonies and can cater for parties up to 180 people.

The Crowne Plaza is an ideal venue for the Reading Festival which takes place each summer in August just a short walk away. For those not wanting to take part in this festival, these dates are best avoided.

Regular visitors to the Crowne Plaza can join the Priority Club Rewardsscheme and earn points towards free nights. Working up towards Platinum status will bring extra privileges such as free Internet connection and late checkout.

All in all, the Crowne Plaza, Reading provides the ideal location for either business or pleasure and many visitors make numerous return visits.

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