Wokingham Town Centre

If you are the healthy type you will be pleased to know that according to a report by Public Health England Wokingham is the healthiest town in England. It has also been voted as one of the best places to live according to The Sunday Times Best Places to Live in Britain survey. Wokingham means ‘Wocca’s people’s home’. Wocca was apparently a Saxon chieftain. In the Victorian times, Wokingham was known as Oakingham. The acorn with oak leaves is the town’s symbol. Here is coat of arms used up till 1974.

Image credit: http://www.ngw.nl/heraldrywiki

Wokingham is a historic market town in the southeast of England. Known for its Bell Foundry which operated from the mid-1300s until 1622. A tip: if you see a bell with the sign of a lion’s head you will know its from Wokingham. During the 16th century, Wokingham became famous for its silk production. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, Wokingham became particularly famous for its manufacture of hand knitted silk stockings and in 1625 an order existed that anyone residing in Wokingham and having no other trade should work in knitting. Now it is known for its software development.

Wokingham town centre has had a facelift! There is a renovated town centre with an area in its centre for events and the market. There are also more outdoor seating and cafe spaces. A general market that trades every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. There are a range of stalls including fruit and veg, flowers, plants, jewellery, meat, and eggs.

There is also a farmers market that is held on the first Thursday of each month from 9am until 2pm. They have a policy of ‘fresh local food at a fair price’. There are a range of stalls including egg and cheese farmers, fresh meat, seasonal fruit and vegetables, and breads.

Wokingham Shops

The usual high street shops can be found in Wokingham town centre, including New Look, Fat Face and Holland and Barrett. Wokingham is a thriving community of independent shops, best restaurants in Wokingham and boutiques. Some of the shops are situated in Grade II listed Tudor buildings, giving them a unique character in comparison to shopping centres.

If you like independent shops you can browse in Dollshouse Boutique sells quirky day and evening wear. They also offer a bespoke hat and fascinator service. You can pop into the family-run shop, Stitchery Do, they specialise in good quality wool, fabric, and haberdashery.

If you are in search of jewellery, visit Kaanaanmaa, they have been in Wokingham for over 30 years. If you want unusual and inspirational items that are not available on the high street then Antique Rose has some great gift ideas.

The TG Art Gallery is an independent art gallery that you can explore if you are visiting Wokingham. Now we think it’s time for a much need coffee break! Check out Oslar Coffee, teas, hot chocolates and milkshakes. If you are feeling peckish, then there is a variety of food and snacks available.