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GAIL's Bakery Reading

Sourdough-focused bakery with a proper coffee programme and pastries that actually justify the queue on Broad Street.

🍴 bakery/cafebuzzycasualmodernfamily-friendlybakery
Walking past GAIL's on Broad Street, you'll clock the line snaking out onto the pavement pretty much every morning—and yeah, it's worth the wait. This is the kind of place where they've clearly thought about their sourdough, their croissants, and their espresso as equally important trinity. You'll find yourself wedged between office workers grabbing breakfast and locals who've made it their weekend ritual. The vibe is modern but unpretentious; bright, a bit buzzy, proper coffee-shop energy without feeling try-hard. Grab a stool if one's free, or take your almond croissant and flat white somewhere quieter—there's plenty of Reading to explore nearby.

Known for

  • Proper sourdough loaves and sourdough-based toasts
  • Buttery laminated pastries (croissants, pain au chocolat)
  • Specialty coffee programme with quality espresso
  • Weekend brunch culture on Broad Street
  • Consistent queue out the door
4.1(297 reviews)
134 Broad St, Reading RG1 2BD, UK