All Day
Forty Farms
Our 2025 exhibition reveals the highs and lows of farming lives in some of England's most beautiful landscapes.
Find out more »Paint, Pencil, Print
In 2025, the University of Reading Art Collection celebrates its 10th birthday! Join us for a special showcase of iconic and innovative artworks, highlighting the growth and evolution of the art collection over the past ten years. Showing in the Upper Staircase Hall. Image credit: Robert Gillmor, Peewit and Son, linocut on paper, UAC/11171. © […]
Find out more »Ladybird in Focus: 100 Years On
Explore how Ladybird Books has continued to evolve since its centenary in 2015. Discover how Ladybird continues to meet the needs of modern audiences, from reviving classic books to releasing new series. On display 2 Sept 2025 - 6 Sept 2026 in the Ladybird Gallery. Image Credit: Climate Change, © Ladybird Books Ltd., 2017
Find out more »Jane Austen and Rural Life display
We’re joining in this year’s global celebrations to mark 250 years of Jane Austen! From 9 September, view our Jane Austen and Rural Life display to see a rare letter by Jane to her sister Cassandra (one of just 160 letters to survive Austen’s death), or follow a trail through our galleries connecting Austen’s life […]
Find out more »James Joyce: Enigmas and Puzzles
This exhibition from the University of Reading’s Special Collections shares never-before-seen personal papers of beloved author James Joyce from our Solange and Stephen James Joyce Collection. Explore Joyce’s large social network of friends and artists, his family life as a loving father, and the inspirations for his work. Learn about the practical adjustments Joyce made […]
Find out more »Half term at The MERL
There's lots for families of all ages to do this October half term at The Museum of English Rural Life. Discover our seasonal Family Activity Packs for all ages (from £2 per pack) Join us for Railway 200 Big Draw for free drop-in actitivites on Thursday 30 Oct Have a go at a variety of […]
Find out more »Ongoing
Tai Chi with Sport in Mind
Run with our partners Sport in Mind, the UK’s leading mental health sports charity, based in Reading. These casual drop-in sessions for adults are designed to support positive mental health through Tai Chi. They are fun and free and delivered at The Museum of English Rural Life every Wednesday at 3.30-4.30pm. This session is open […]
Find out more »10:00 am
Museums, My Way
Free sessions developed with Autism Berkshire “This was our first (museum) event and to be honest I felt quite emotional. I was touched by such a supportive environment and welcoming faces. Thank you!” Join us for this free, bookable session which will take place on a Monday when the museum is closed to the public. […]
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