Visiting The MERL - An Innovative Exploration of Rural Life in England

The Museum of English Rural Life, a University of Reading Museum, also known as the MERL, is a free museum. Once a private home and then housing university student accommodation, the MERL explores the history of rural farming and displays exhibits which trace the changes of the English countryside. It showcases tools, wagons and other equipment used by farmers and craftspeople of the past and the present. You will also get a peek into farming practices, food production processes, livestock, and more. 

No advance booking is required to visit.

There are interactive exhibits and activities for families, too, to enhance the experience. One popular activity is locating the dozen rats (miniature soft toys) across galleries. A film on changing seasons is projected on a wall in the museum, with short videos depicting the English weather.

Here are some snap shots-

This makes one pause-

The text states: The wind blows across the hills, the rain falls on English oaks, the seasons turn. To step into the wind and rain, to turn the vast wild landscape into fields and pasture – is this the greatest achievement of our ancestors?

The text of the second image states: Clearance of the wildwood created farmland. Later woodlands were carefully managed. Timber carriages similar to the one show are still used today.

Farm Equipment with a plough in the front

Wagon model and wagon

Don't miss The Nook, a quiet space for visitors to relax, with reading material, artwork on the walls, and a space to share a brief note on your museum experience.

The Nook

Additional Information

• You would likely require over two or more hours to explore all the galleries across the ground floor and upper floor (there is a lift)
• There is a large lawn where you can have a picnic
• There is a garden with a variety of flowers, medicinal plants, and more, with trails to explore the whole garden
• There are fun activities for children indoors and outdoors
• You can enjoy a quick bite/lunch at the cafe
• Check out the store-

The Store

MERL Address

The Museum of English Rural Life

Redlands Road, Reading, United Kingdom, Berkshire, RG1 5EX        

MERL Timings

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry is 4.30 p.m.)
• Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry is 4.30 p.m.)
• The library, reading room and archive are open from Tuesday to Friday only, from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. and are closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. 

Getting to the MERL

You can walk from Reading Station or take a bus. Check details of commuting by bus/train or your own vehicle here.

All you want to know: MERL