The Grade I listed Gateway overlooking the Forbury Gardens is a substantial part of what remains of Reading Abbey. This Gateway divided the public area of the Abbey grounds (what is now Forbury Gardens) and the private area where the rest of the ruins are. The Gateway has been fully restored and work finished in April 2018.

The Abbey Gateway was once part of the Reading Ladies Boarding School. This was famously attended by Jane Austen and her sister Cassandra. 

In 1861 the Gateway collapsed in a storm, shortly after funds had been raised for vital conservation. Instead the Gate had to be substantially rebuilt. This work was completed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, a Victorian architect known for his Gothic Revival work. He also designed Reading Gaol within the Abbey Quarter.

Access to the Gateway is by organised visit only. Visit our what's on page to find out about our tours, or our school or group visit pages to organise a visit.