Our small branch site tells the story of Reading's two rivers - the Kennet and the Thames - the Riverside Museum occupies two Listed former waterworks buildings, the Screen House and the Turbine House. It is open every day from April to September, from 10am to 6pm.
The Screen House displays our beautiful gypsy caravan built by Reading firm Dunton and Sons to the 'Ledge' design, and a video about gypsy life. You can also see a variety of objects illustrating life by the river, from stuffed fish to regatta tickets, including a medieval wooden wheel from St Giles Mill found during archaeological excavations at the site of The Oracle shopping centre.
The Turbine House is a unique Victorian building that spans the River Kennet, with views across the water. It houses preserved turbine machinery and since 2003 has been hosting a programme of summertime art exhibitions and events by the local cultural community.
The Riverside Museum a 15 to 20 minute stroll from Reading Museum through the historic Abbey Quarter. Find out how to get to the Riverside Museum.
Riverside Museum Summer 2019 - ends Monday 30 September
In Reading Gaol by Reading Town
Saturday 31 August – Sunday 15 September
An exhibition of visual artwork inspired by Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol by artists from the Reading area.
It’s the Journey that Matters
Thursday 19 – Monday 30 September
What a journey Thérèse and Karen have had this last year. Come to their exhibition and share their new work, with lots to see and buy - original art, prints, cards and gifts.
Exhibiting at the Turbine House
To enquire about exhibiting or for further information about the summer programme of community art exhibitions at the Turbine House please use our enquiry form.
Riverside Museum is opened by our partners at the neighbouring Bel and the Dragon restaurant.
An outstanding and astonishing tiny museum. I love it!
Riverside Museum visitor
