Riverside Museum at Blake's Lock
A peaceful riverside museum in Reading, where Victorian waterworks meet seasonal art and the story of the Kennet River unfolds.
Nestled along the Kennet River in Reading, the Riverside Museum at Blake's Lock is a charming riverside museum housed in two historic waterworks buildings. It explores the story of Reading’s rivers, featuring a beautifully preserved gypsy caravan, river life exhibits, and seasonal art displays. The museum is open seasonally from April to September, with free admission and lovely riverside walks nearby. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly stop that blends local history with creative contemporary exhibitions.
A brief summary to Riverside Museum
- Kenavon Dr, Reading, RG1 3DH, GB
- +441189373400
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum’s official opening dates before visiting, as it is only open seasonally from April to September.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Kennet River from Reading town centre or through the Abbey Quarter for a scenic approach.
- Look out for the seasonal art exhibitions in the Turbine House, which often feature local artists and community projects.
- Visit on a weekday if you prefer a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with families and events.
- Bring a camera or sketchbook: the riverside views, historic buildings, and seasonal displays make for beautiful photos and drawings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Reading town centre
From Reading town centre, follow the Kennet River path or walk through the Abbey Quarter; the museum is about a 15–20 minute walk along generally flat, paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
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On foot from Reading Museum
From Reading Museum in the town centre, walk through the Abbey Quarter and along the riverside path; the Riverside Museum is about a 15–20 minute walk away, with clear signage and level access.
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By bus
Local bus services stop within a 10–15 minute walk of the museum; routes serving the Kenavon Drive or Blake’s Lock area provide the closest access, with fares around £2–3 for a single journey within Reading.
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By car
Limited on‑street parking is available near Blake’s Lock; spaces are free but can fill quickly on weekends and during events, so arriving early is advisable, especially in summer.
Riverside Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Riverside Museum
Where the River Tells Its Story
Tucked beside the Kennet River at Blake’s Lock, the Riverside Museum is a quiet gem that captures the spirit of Reading’s waterways. Housed in two listed Victorian buildings – the Screen House and the Turbine House – the museum sits right on the riverbank, where the gentle flow of water and the occasional boat passing through the lock form a living backdrop to the exhibits. This small but thoughtful museum is a branch of Reading Museum and focuses on the history of the Kennet and Thames, from mills and locks to regattas and riverside life. Inside the Screen House, visitors encounter a striking gypsy caravan built by Reading firm Dunton and Sons, along with displays of river-related objects: fishing gear, old regatta tickets, and even a medieval wooden wheel discovered during excavations in the town centre. The Turbine House, a unique structure spanning the river, preserves original turbine machinery and hosts a changing programme of summertime art exhibitions, often featuring local artists and community projects.A Seasonal Riverside Escape
The museum is open seasonally, typically from April to September, making it a perfect destination for a spring or summer visit. During these months, the riverside path is especially inviting, with willow trees leaning over the water, ducks and swans gliding past, and the occasional narrowboat navigating the lock. The surrounding area is ideal for a gentle stroll from central Reading, passing through the historic Abbey Quarter before arriving at this peaceful riverside spot. The seasonal opening reflects the museum’s focus on outdoor access and summertime events. When open, the buildings are free to enter, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried, with plenty of space to pause by the river and simply watch the water. It’s a place that feels more like a community riverside hub than a formal institution, where history, art, and nature come together in a very local, grounded way.Art, Industry and the River’s Edge
What makes the Riverside Museum distinctive is its blend of industrial heritage and contemporary creativity. The Turbine House, with its original machinery and views across the Kennet, is a rare surviving example of Victorian waterworks architecture. Standing inside, you can almost hear the hum of the turbines that once powered parts of the town, and the building itself becomes part of the exhibit. In recent years, the space has been transformed each summer into a gallery for temporary art exhibitions, often linked to themes of time, light, and the river environment. These shows are frequently the result of artist residencies and community collaborations, giving the museum a dynamic, evolving character. Whether you’re drawn by the history of the lock and the mills or by the chance to see locally produced art in an atmospheric riverside setting, the museum offers a quietly enriching experience.Visiting the Riverside Museum
Reaching the museum is part of the pleasure: a 15–20 minute walk from Reading Museum through the Abbey Quarter, or a slightly longer riverside walk from the town centre. When open, the museum is free to enter, with no need to book in advance for casual visits. It’s well suited to families, with enough to interest children without being overwhelming, and the surrounding riverside paths are stroller-friendly and generally flat. Because the museum is seasonal, it’s worth checking opening dates before planning a trip. When open, it’s a lovely addition to a day exploring Reading’s museums and historic sites, or simply a peaceful riverside break with a coffee from a nearby café. The combination of local history, industrial architecture, and seasonal art makes it a unique and low-key highlight of Reading’s cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VII Statue
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Holy Well of St Anne
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Hilton Reading
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Maidenhead Railway Bridge
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Virgin Experience Days
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Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Sydney Camm Memorial
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A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
River Thames Windsor
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Discover the beauty and history of the River Thames in Windsor, a picturesque destination perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
Church Square
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King George III & His Horse Statue
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Windsor Wheel
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Experience breathtaking views of Windsor and its iconic landmarks from the heights of the Royal Windsor Wheel, a must-visit tourist attraction in Alexandra Gardens.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
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Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains
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Historical Windsor
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The Curfew Tower
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Bronze Plaque № 10828
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Unmissable attractions to see
Reading Abbey Ruins
0.5 km
Uncover the historical charm of Reading Abbey Ruins, a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into the past amidst tranquil gardens.
King's Meadow
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Peaceful riverside park in Reading offering green space, scenic views, and community events along the Thames.
Maiwand Lion
0.7 km
Explore the historic Maiwand Lion in Reading, a stunning monument commemorating the bravery of the 66th Berkshire Regiment amidst beautiful gardens.
The Museum of English Rural Life
0.8 km
Explore England’s rural past through immersive galleries, archives, and a peaceful garden at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading.
Britain's Bayeux Tapestry
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Explore the stunning Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, a vivid embroidered narrative of the Norman Conquest, housed in Reading Museum’s historic gallery.
Reading Museum
0.8 km
Discover Berkshire’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and a historic setting in the heart of Reading.
The Armoured Heart sculpture
0.9 km
A powerful symbol of peace and hope against knife crime, crafted from reclaimed blades and community spirit in Reading.
Fanny's Antiques
1.2 km
Discover Reading’s eclectic antique gem offering vintage treasures, rustic furniture, and quirky curios at affordable prices with expert staff and free parking.
Broad Street Mall
1.3 km
A vibrant community-focused shopping and entertainment centre in Reading with diverse retail, dining, and leisure options.
Knockout Escape Rooms
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Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
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Caversham Court
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Balmore Walk
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Cole Museum of Zoology
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Escape Reading
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Essential places to dine
Piwnica Restaurant
0.4 km
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London Street Brasserie
0.8 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Botanist Reading
0.8 km
Experience live music and delicious dining at The Botanist Reading - where every visit offers something new!
Miller & Carter Oracle
0.9 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
1.0 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
Bill's Reading Restaurant
1.1 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian hotspot in Reading blending bold flavors, crafted cocktails, and an industrial chic vibe for all-day dining and late-night fun.
Miller & Carter Caversham
3.3 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks in a warm, inviting setting at Miller & Carter Caversham, Reading’s premier steakhouse destination.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
3.8 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
Caprice Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Reading East
5.2 km
Award-winning modern British and authentic Indian dining in a stylish setting at Crowne Plaza Reading East with a charming terrace and refined afternoon tea.
L'Ortolan
5.3 km
Experience the legacy of L'Ortolan, Reading’s iconic Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant housed in a historic 1840s building.
The Herd Restaurant
9.5 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
Chalk
9.8 km
Chalk Restaurant offers warm, stylish dining with quality modern English cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in central Wokingham.
The Shurlock Inn
10.8 km
A charming 17th-century English gastropub blending historic charm with modern British cuisine and a lively bar scene.
The Spring Inn
10.9 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harris Arcade
0.9 km
Discover Reading’s elegant 1930s Art Deco arcade, home to quirky independent shops and a unique vintage shopping experience.
But Is It Art
1.0 km
Discover quirky, art-inspired gifts and British cultural charm at But Is It Art, Reading’s boutique for unique handcrafted treasures.
Dolly Rose Vintage Shed
1.7 km
Discover rare vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at Dolly Rose Vintage Shed, Caversham’s beloved boutique for sustainable, curated clothing.
Sugarland uk
3.5 km
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Well Cool Stuff
5.7 km
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B&M Store
7.2 km
Shop smart and save big at B&M Store in Reading, where unbeatable prices meet a wide selection of products for every traveler.
The Rhubarb Tree
9.5 km
Discover whimsical gifts, artisanal chocolates, and creative balloon art at The Rhubarb Tree, a charming boutique in Pangbourne’s historic High Street.
Englefield Stores & Tea Room
9.9 km
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Barbara's Antique and Bric a Brac Shop
14.4 km
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The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
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Inspiration
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Yattendon Village Stores & Post Office
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Nicholsons Shopping Centre
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Peach's Stores
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Litten Tree Antiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hope & Bear
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High Spirits Cocktail Company
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Valpy Street Bar & Bistro
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Wild Lime
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All Bar One Reading
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Oakford Social Club
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The Purple Turtle
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Reading
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Milk Bar Reading
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The Face Bar
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The Nag's Head
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The Three Tuns
2.3 km
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The White Eagle
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The Fox and Hounds
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The Lord Raglan
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Q Club
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Gun Street Garden
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Reading Lola Lo
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Popworld - Reading
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3sixty
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Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
The Binfield Club
11.9 km
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The Venue, Bucks
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The Music & Words Club
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Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
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Pink Gentleman's Club.
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The Boom
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The Scotch
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Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
24.3 km
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Diligence
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Winkers Nightclub
33.4 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
