Café · Reading
Tucked a short walk from Prospect Park, this is the kind of café where nobody minds a toddler at full volume — most of the tables are parents with young children, and there's a small secure soft play area indoors that keeps little ones busy while you actually drink your coffee hot. The coffee genuinely is very good (one parent reckons it's the nicest takeaway in Reading), tea and coffee around £2, with homemade cakes, cookies and a proper sausage sandwich on the lunch menu. Staff are warm, quick to check a child is alright after a tumble, and flexible about allergies. There's a decent outdoor area with extra tables for warm days, plus high chairs, buggy access and a kids' menu. It runs in support of the YMCA. Two snags: the soft play needs supervising, and it closes at 2pm.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
A proper play café for under-fives — ball pit, roleplay stations, good coffee and cake, high chairs and free parking.
Steak and grill in Reading with a kids' menu, high chairs, step-free access and free parking — booking advised.
A laid-back Reading coffee shop with high chairs and outdoor seating, well rated by families at a comfortable mid-range price.