At least one Jewish family living in the area has been traced back as far as 1842. Eventually the group grew to 13 families, who declared themselves a community in 1886. On the 31st of October 1900, Reading Synagogue officially opened with an engaging public ceremony, packed to capacity with dignitaries, and lead by the then Chief Rabbi Hermann Marcus Adler. The beautiful Synagogue, Grade 2 listed, to a traditional design, in the Moorish style has a warm and homely feel and stands to-day on its original site at the junction of Goldsmid Road and Clifton Street. Reading Synagogue itself is situated within easy walking distance of the centre of Reading, the Oracle Shopping Centre and the main Reading station. Members of the community live in various areas in and around Reading, some within easy walking distance of the Synagogue. Additionally the Synagogue serves the Greater Reading community which includes parts of Wokingham, West Berkshire and South Oxfordshire. Our Synagogue is the nearest one to these areas. It is also the nearest Synagoue to North Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire, and the only Orthodox Synagogue in Berkshire.

We have recently reprinted this fascinating book about the first 100 years history of our community. It’s full of interesting anecdotes, pictures and stories, and it is a very good read. The first edition sold out and because we are still be asked for copies we decided on the reprint. About 50% of the current print run has already been sold and we’re sure that many of our supporters, past members and many other people associated with the community did not get one first time around. So if you would like a copy for yourself, your family and friends now this is your opportunity to obtain one. The book can be purchased for £15/copy including postage & packing. Please click on the Add to Cart link to purchase one or more copies: