Reading knows how to host a good night out—just ask anyone who’s survived a Friar Street pub crawl or danced their way through Reading Festival weekend. Planning a big get-together? You’re exactly where you should be. Tagvenue lists the best bars for groups for hire in Reading, perfect for birthday rounds, work drinks, reunions, or a proper celebration near the Thames or around The Oracle. Expect private bar areas, cocktail spots with room for the whole crew, and lively hangouts close to the station for easy meet-ups. Use smart filters, check verified reviews, and compare spaces in minutes. Scroll a little and pick the bar that fits your gang.
Booking costs of bars for groups average £1000 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Reading, based on Tagvenue data:
| From £500 | to £1542 | minimum spend per event |
| From £25 | to £45 | per person |
| From £24 | to £2981 | hire fee per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2026), the best options include:
Entire Venue at The Jazz Café
in Reading - rated 5/5
Venue said: When you book with us, you will have exclusive access to the venue for the agreed duration, allowing you to fully enjoy your special occasion. Our well-stocked bar, complete with professional bartenders, will cater to your...
Rooftop terrace & Bar at Market House
in Reading Town Centre - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Staff very friendly and helpful - great party venue being rooftop bar and nice evening.’
Firefly Cellar Bar at The Three Guineas - Firefly Cellar Bar
in Reading Town Centre - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘The venue itself was gorgeous and the perfect space for everyone of all ages.’
You'll find bars for groups in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Reading, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (September 2026):
| Small | up to 60 guests | prices average £500 minimum spend per event |
| Medium | between 90 and 150 guests | prices average £1000 minimum spend per event |
| Large | over 160 guests | prices average £1500 minimum spend per event |
These are the venues within 0.1 mi from central Reading, available to book on Tagvenue:
Smaller bars for groups usually fit up to 60 guests standing. Here are some great options in Reading, based on Tagvenue data as of September 2026:
Drinks Area at The Cocktail Club Reading - event space for 20 guests
Venue said: Why not join them for a cocktail masterclass? Or pull up a stool, sipping a Porn Star Martini, while their infamous bartenders raise the roof. Set over two rooms, there's space to sing, dance and do the splits (if that's...
Basement Lounge at Calico Bar & Eatery, rated 5/5 - lounge for 40 guests
Venue said: We are just minutes from Reading station. The bar has bold décor, quirky details, and a lively vibe. The venue includes three private hire options. The Library Lounge is a cosy room with plush seating for parties or work...
Private Dining Room at Hilton Reading - dining room for 15 guests
Venue said: The Private Dining Room works well for smaller groups who want something a bit more tucked away. You can keep things simple with set menus or go for sharing-style dishes, all built around seasonal ingredients.
Cheap bars for groups in Reading start from £250 minimum spend per event or £10 per person. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
First Floor Bar at Slug & Lettuce Reading, Friar Street, from £250 minimum spend per event
(up to 150 guests standing)
Venue said: Located in the city of Reading in the heart of its party district, Slug and Lettuce Reading is a contemporary and decadent bar and restaurant which prides itself on offering its guest some amazing drinks, even better food,
Drinks Area at The Cocktail Club Reading, from £10 per person
(up to 20 guests standing)
Venue said: Why not join them for a cocktail masterclass? Or pull up a stool, sipping a Porn Star Martini, while their infamous bartenders raise the roof. Set over two rooms, there's space to sing, dance and do the splits (if that's...
Downstairs Area at The Coconut Tree Reading, from £24 hire fee per event
(up to 140 guests standing)
Venue said: The Downstairs at The Coconut Tree Reading has a capacity of 140 guests. It's a go-to choice for larger parties, corporate receptions, and more!
Page last updated in September 2026
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