The Victoria Cross
📍 0.9 miles from Select Car Leasing Stadium
About this Pub
Why it's great for Matchdays
The Victoria Cross is a popular sports pub in Reading, offering a vibrant atmosphere for football fans. It broadcasts a wide range of live football matches, including Premier League, Champions League, and Women's Euros, on large screens with sound. The venue provides hot food delivered to tables, including burgers and snacks, and offers daily deals such as 2-for-1 burgers. Fans can enjoy a free drink and 10% off selected drinks by downloading the Greene King Sport App. The pub is located less than two miles from the town center, making it accessible for both home and away supporters. It features a spacious layout with an upstairs area, a beer garden, and a children's play area, catering to families and groups. The venue's lively atmosphere, extensive drink selection, and commitment to showing live sports make it a favorable choice for football fans seeking a social and engaging matchday experience.
Recent Fan Reviews
Friday afternoons feel kinder here; the kind that slow time down and invite you to stay a little longer. With fewer tables occupied and a gentle hush in the air, it’s a place made for unhurried conversations, especially with a friend who knows your past and still listens to your present. We ordered the Smoky Rancher chicken burgers, and they arrived like a small celebration. The bun was cloud-soft, cradling chicken that crackled at first bite — crunchy outside, perfectly cooked within. The garlic and herb sauce flowed through it all, turning each mouthful juicy and indulgent, a quiet cherry on top moment that lingers after the plate is cleared. The bill, too, felt friendly; reasonable for two people with soft drinks, leaving no aftertaste of regret, only satisfaction. This is the sort of pub you don’t just visit once. You add it to your wish list, knowing there will be another Friday, another conversation, and another reason to return.
EDIT: (3->1 star) I did contact the business on the email provided on 17/12/25 following the response on this thread. No one bothered to respond! If this is the case, there is no point in putting these automated messages as replies!! ******** Drinks are ok but the food is worth a skip. Salmon is overcooked and fries are oily. Overall I would say the upside down (nearby pub) is a much better place for food and drinks
"Lovely pub with fantastic food and drinks, but a huge shoutout to the staff—especially Ellie! They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed, always with a smile. It’s rare to find service this genuinely warm and attentive these days. Outstanding job!" All the staffs are very fantastic.
Worst food I’ve had on my UK trip, bone dry reheated food with no flavor. I asked for some olive oil and the lady said we don’t have any!! Go eat at Aldi across the road and the food will be 5 times better. What a shame
To lauren, An exceptional bar waitress consistently delivers outstanding service by combining professionalism, attentiveness, and a warm, welcoming attitude. She anticipates customers’ needs, ensures orders are accurate and timely, and maintains a positive demeanor even in high-pressure situations. Her strong communication skills and attention to detail create a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for every guest. By demonstrating reliability, efficiency, and genuine care for customer satisfaction, she plays a key role in enhancing the overall experience and reputation of the establishment