What’s On

Families toasting marshmallows in the MERL garden during a Green Explorers session

Event

Green Explorers

Sessions for children aged 5+ to experience nature and build their outdoor skills.

Dates: Sunday 28 June 2026, 10:00 – 12:00
Author: Family
Price: Free • Bookings open two weeks ahead of each session
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life

A boy blacksmithing at MERL

Event

Romany & Traveller Heritage Day

Learn about the history of Romany and Traveller communities in the English
countryside at this special event for
everyone.

Dates: Saturday 4 July 2026, 11:00 – 16:00
Author: Academics, Family, Public, Young People
Price: Free • Please book
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life

Event

Summer Celebration, My Way

A relaxed version of our Summer Celebration geared towards neurodivergent visitors.

Dates: Thursday 6 August 2026, 10:30 – 12:00
Author: Family
Price: Booking required, link coming soon
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life

Three children in The MERL garden.

Event

Summer Celebration

Bring a picnic and enjoy a range of hand-on activities in the MERL garden.

Dates: Thursday 6 August 2026, 12:30 – 16:00
Author: Family
Price: Booking required, link coming soon
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life

Event

Heritage Open Days

Explore materials from the University
of Reading’s Special Collections
and Art Collections.

Dates: Sunday 20 September 2026, 11:00 – 13:00
Author: Public
Price: Free • Booking link opens 2 June
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life

MERL Curator Ollie Douglas standing in front of the Welcome Case at The MERL

Talks and Seminars

Gallery Tour: MERL 75

Join us on a whistle-stop gallery tour through 75 years of The MERL!

Dates: Tuesday 22 September 2026, 13:00 – 14:00
Author: Public
Price: Free, booking suggested
Location: The Museum of English Rural Life