The MERL, Museum of English Rural Life in Reading use their diverse collections to explore how the skills and experiences of rural people, past and present, help shape our lives today.
A family friendly museum, that’s free to visit too, they have galleries to explore, hands on activities and an outdoor garden.
Yesterday we took a trip to the MERL and had fun exploring the old wagons & old farming equipment.
They have free trail activities where the kids have to find all the little rats hidden around the galleries & then find different bees out in the garden.
There’s also activity packs available to purchase all about Biscuit Town (£3) & Caring for Nature (£4) to keep children occupied too and there’s also free colouring sheets to do!
Outside, the garden area is safe and enclosed and has chickens, a small tractor climbing frame, a hut full of knitted toys & garden games free to be used by all! The garden trails have been designed for families. You Pick up a copy, including a woodland brass rubbing trail and tree trail.
There’s a café too but you’re also allowed to bring your own picnic and enjoy it outside lawn or one of the picnic benches.
During term time they run Friday Fledglings, an outdoor learning session for pre-schoolers. Run by Charlotte, a local teacher and Level 3 Forest Leader the sessions focus on outdoor play and exploration of the natural environment involving story-telling, craft activities and singing. Numbers are currently limited and booking is required in advance.
With free parking and entry this is a great value trip out with kids in Reading.
Review and photos from local mum @adventuresoftheaandjax
