Much loved rail stop-over becomes far from brief encounter Mal life. She's back, the greatly loved old girl from the golden age of steam. The one time Great Western Rail hotel is now one of us. She had always been chic, now we've brought her up to date and brought along a few of her friends to keep her company. A seductive bar, serving smooth strong beers, astounding vino and dangerously good cocktails. An alluring brasserie serving up stellar tasting cuisine, passionately prepared with ethically sourced local ingredients. And then there's her more outgoing Café, serving healthy take-homes and ultra tasty anytime nibbles. The old girl is back, not so old and at an even more adorable price. Next time you travel, catch up with her instead of that usual London crowd you stay with. Reading, it's time to eat, drink and sleep Mal life.