Station Hill Officially Launches with Thousands of Visitors at ‘Party on the Hill’

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us as we officially launched Station Hill to the public!

On Saturday 21st June, thousands of Reading locals, visitors, performers, and community groups came together for Party on the Hill—a free, all-day celebration marking a major milestone in the town’s transformation.

From the buzzing food stalls and local traders to incredible live performances across two stages, the event showcased the very best of Reading’s creativity, community spirit, and local talent. Families enjoyed performances across two stages outside Reading Station and Siren Craft Brew as well as a packed programme of free activities at The Seed including face painting, circus skills, drumming workshops and a community doodle wall, all while sampling delicious food and drink from Station Hill favourites and Reading icons.

Highlights of the Day:

• The powerful debut of The Reading Town Song, introduced by the Mayor of Reading, Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, an original composition by Peter Doyle, performed by Peter Doyle and Dionne Williams, together with the Reading Community Gospel Choir in a specially rehearsed collaboration
• A vibrant Youth Showcase featuring the Reading Youth Orchestra, Reading Rock Academy, and Gold Dust DJ.
• Show-stopping sets from local favourites including the Beatroots, RASPO, the Reading Community Gospel Choir, and the World Groove Band.
• Intimate acoustic performances at Friar’s Walk from a stellar line-up of local musicians throughout the day.
• Family-friendly entertainment and giveaways, with free activities running from midday until evening.
• Light show orchestrated by Stuart Melrose, co-creator of the LED Mosaic Murals at Friar’s Walk and Reading Station.
• Kev Munday, renowned doodle artist, delivered a live doodling demonstration – the completed doodle was auctioned, with all proceeds donated to local charity Launchpad.

“It was an incredibly proud moment to formally launch Station Hill and celebrate this exciting new chapter in Reading’s transformation. Station Hil is already having a significant impact on the town centre, regenerating a site that had been derelict for decades and creating a revitalised gateway to the town from the station. “It was brilliant to showcase local talent, support local businesses and celebrate the town’s amazing achievements in a space that has been designed to reflect Reading’s past, present and future.”

Alex Aitchison, Managing Director at Lincoln Property

With a fantastic line-up of much-loved local businesses – including Siren Craft Brew, Notes Coffee Roasters, Yaylo, Zambrero, Cosy Club, Royal Tandoori, Spill, and the iconic Purple Turtle – the new neighbourhood was buzzing with life and an amazing food and drink offering throughout the day.

Stay tuned for more events, exciting announcements, and new openings coming soon. Follow us on Instagram @stationhill_reading for the latest updates.