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The Arena

Wondering when the arena opens and what you’ll find inside? Look no further

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Food and Drink

Only food for personal consumption can be brought into the Arena.

We only allow sealed water under 500ml, as well as empty reusable plastic and metal bottles of any size into the Arena.

Please refill your empty bottles at the water points inside the Arena for free.

Interested in becoming a food and drink trader at the festival? Contact Central Catering for more information.

Water Points

There are tested drinking water points throughout the Arena which are free to use. If you notice any issue with our water points, let a member of staff know so that they can get it fixed.

The Lounge Upgrade

New for 2023, the Reading Lounge!

Upgrade your festival experience & get out of the crowds for a breather with access to the Reading Lounge. It’s a great place to hang out with friends & relax over a beer.

You will be able to enjoy a drink at the dedicated lounge bar & take advantage of the fully serviced luxury restroom facilities, all within a prime location near the entrance of the main arena. The Reading Lounge also includes a cloakroom, phone charging & a pamper area, to ensure that your Reading experience is easy & convenient, leaving you more time to rock!

The Reading Lounge upgrade includes:

• Chill out area and casual seating

• Dedicated bar selling soft drinks, cocktails, beer, wine & spirits*

• Pamper area with hair dryers, straighteners and mirror

• Lounge cloakroom facilities*

• Phone charging*

• Luxury restrooms

• Commemorative wristband

*at additional cost

This upgrade does not include festival tickets. Please note the Reading Lounge does not have views of the main stages.

The Reading Lounge can be booked here

Crime Prevention

Anything such as car keys, cash, credit cards, mobile phones, wallets, purses and other valuables should be kept on you at all times, or Weekend Ticket holders can use the pre-bookable onsite lockers. You can also leave items at Lost Property/Safe Storage for £2.00 per item, with 24-hour access as needed.

If you do decide to carry these on your person, make sure you keep them hidden and secured under your outer clothing.

Do not leave them in unattended vehicles or in your tent.