The Purple Turtle

Known to the locals simply as “The Turtle”, it has been a part of Reading’s music scene for at least 20 years. It began on London Street, later moving to Gun Street. This was then followed by the creation of Turtles in Islington, Oxford and Camden.

The Turtle prides itself on letting people wear whatever they want, no matter how silly; they go by the philosophy “Everyone enjoys themselves because they can be themselves!” This alternative attitude is reflected in the music, with regular sets on reggae, drum n bass, electro, rap and metal, as well as the more traditional rock and indie. The Turtle’s other claim to musical fame is it’s Jukebox, and over the years it has also won various bar awards.

Trail Directions

RED ROUTE
Clockwise to
SAKURA

turn left as you exit – Sakura is a few doors down the street

RED ROUTE
Anti-clockwise to
GLOBAL CAFE

With Purple Turtle to your right, walk forwards, past the Oracle entrance. The road will curve first left, then immediately right. Continue along this (it becomes Kings Street then Kings Road). Turn right onto London Street and follow this road across the wide A329. Global Cafe is on the corner after crossing the road.

BLUE ROUTE
Clockwise to
SAKURA

turn left as you exit – Sakura is a few doors down the street

BLUE ROUTE
Anti-clockwise to
READING ABBEY

With Purple Turtle to your right, walk forwards, past the Oracle entrance. The road will curve first left, then immediately right. Continue along this (it becomes Kings Street then Kings Road). Just after passing Abbey Street on your left, take footpath (steps or ramp) on the left down to the canal. The Abbey is just ahead.