Fans of Reading Football Club or people who simply want to explore the Berkshire countryside will be perfectly placed if they choose to stay at the Millennium Madejski Hotel.

This deluxe four-star establishment forms part of the Madejski Stadium complex, meaning that supporters of the local side will not have far to go to enjoy the action when match day arrives.

Reading FC have been one of the most impressive football success stories of recent times, with a meteoric rise to the top flight since their move to the Madejski Stadium in 1998. This transition to the purpose-built 25,000 all-seater stadium marked the beginning of a new era for the club.

In the 2001-02 season, the Royals won promotion to Division One, which became the Championship in 2004-05, by which time the team was under the management of Steve Coppell. It was the following year, however, that really represented how far Reading had come, as the side won the Championship title and suffered only two defeats all season, putting a record total of 106 points on the board.

A Premier League place was therefore assured and the Royals continued to impress, finishing eighth in their first season in the top flight, just one place away from a Uefa Cup position.

The 2007-08 season, however, has proven more difficult as the south-east club have been battling relegation. Reading hotel visitors will be able to see Steve Coppell's side face some exciting games as they bid to stay in the Premier League. There are some matches that Royals fans can expect to take some points from, including the visit of Birmingham on March 22nd and a clash against Fulham on April 12th.

There are also some tough fixtures coming up, however, with Blackburn in town on March 29th and Carling Cup winners Tottenham the opposition on May 3rd, the penultimate day of the season.

While a stay in the Millennium Madejski Hotel is perfect for Reading FC supporters, football is not the only entertainment on offer.

Those who would prefer a more relaxing excursion may wish to visit the Nirvana Spa, which is just four miles away from the hotel. Here, visitors will be able to bask in peace and tranquillity and make use of the centre's fitness, relaxation and spa pools, hydrotherapy rooms and massage and pampering treatments.

Also close by is the Oracle Shopping Centre, offering a spot of retail therapy after all the sporting excitement, which includes over 90 top name shops, 25 restaurants, cafes and bars and a ten-screen Vue cinema.

People with an interest in horse riding may also be interested in a visit to Reading, as it is home to the Hall Place Equestrian Centre, a leading riding establishment that offers classes and coaching and also hosts a range of shows, events and activities throughout the year.