The Museum of English Rural Life occupies a purpose-built space in central Reading, close to the university campus. The museum is free to enter and welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00, and on weekends from 10:00 to 17:00. It remains closed on Mondays. The postcode RG1 5EY marks its location within the city centre, making it easily accessible by public transport and on foot from the main shopping and civic areas.
The collection focuses on the material culture and everyday life of rural England, drawing on the university’s extensive archive of agricultural tools, domestic objects, photographs and documents. Visitors can contact the museum on 0118 378 8660 or visit merl.reading.ac.uk for further information. The museum also maintains an active presence on Facebook and Instagram, where current exhibitions and events are shared regularly with followers interested in rural heritage and social history.