The Boundary

You're walking past the Victorian shopfronts of St Mary's Butts when The Boundary pulls you in—and it's worth stopping for. This is a cocktail bar that doesn't overreach or rely on flash; instead, it focuses on doing the fundamentals brilliantly. The space feels confident without trying too hard, the sort of place where the bartenders actually know their vermouth and won't judge you for ordering a Negroni. It's become a proper fixture in Reading's drinking scene since opening, drawing locals who care about their drinks and don't want theatre with their G&T. Expect competent, well-made cocktails at reasonable prices for what you're getting—around £8–12 depending on what you order.