The national collection of objects, books and archives relating to the history of food, farming and the countryside, including galleries, a library, a café, a shop and a walled garden.
Weekly outdoor learning session for children under five in The MERL's garden, with nature exploration, storytelling, craft and a snack.
Free monthly drop-in afternoon for carers and loved ones to socialise, share stories and reminiscences inspired by the museum's collections.
Adults-only late-night visit to the Museum of English Rural Life with curator-led tours, crafts, drinks, a cheese expert and 10% off the gift shop.
Monthly meeting of the Youth Panel, a programme for 14-18 year olds to work as change-makers in Reading's museums and heritage sector.
Free outdoor nature and bushcraft session for children aged five and over, held in the MERL garden on the last Sunday of each month.
A calmer, sensory-friendly version of the museum's Magical Lights, with lantern-making, the Night-Time Rat Trail and light and shadow activities for neurodivergent children and families.
Free online talk by curator Tim Jerrome about the work and life of novelist Sylvia Townsend-Warner.
Hands-on postgraduate workshop where participants work with items from the University of Reading's archive, art, rare book and museum collections.
Free drop-in drawing session for families to make a concertina book or zine inspired by the museum's Festival of Britain wall hanging.
