News and Views

Ploughing Pioneers: Tractor history through The MERL collections

Explore the history of farming’s most iconic vehicle, and learn how our historical collections can be used to deepen your tractor knowledge.

For Food Waste Action Week, The MERL curators explore approaches to food waste inspired by the museum’s collections and activities

Learn about how Suffragettes used sewing machines and crafts to cause havoc and spread awareness during their campaign for the right to vote.

Find out about Green Explorers, a new monthly outdoor learning session in the MERL garden for children aged 5+

Read about the next steps for Our Green Stories, a Museums Partnership Reading campaign exploring environmental sustainability.

Learn about the history of Suttons Seeds, a Reading company who revolutionised the UK seed-growing industry.

The Barnett project explores the history of the sewing machine and engages in issues relevant to the textile industry in the modern day.

Explore the January to March programme for 2023 at The Museum of English Rural Life. Find something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Delve into the findings of our 2022 volunteer survey and explore the fantastic work our volunteers helped deliver throughout the year.