Riverside Museum at Blake's Lock, Local history museum in Reading, England
Description
The Riverside Museum at Blake's Lock is a local history museum in Reading that occupies two former waterworks buildings: the Screen House and the Turbine House, both situated along the River Kennet. The structures contain exhibits about the industrial past and river life in this area.
History
The buildings were constructed during the Victorian era as part of a waterworks facility, with the Turbine House originally built across the River Kennet and still containing original machinery. These installations were crucial to Reading's water supply and early power generation.
Culture
The collection features a Romani caravan built by Dunton and Sons and displays about river life with taxidermied fish and regatta memorabilia. These items reflect how local people connected with the waterway and its traditions over time.
Practical
Access to the museum is limited to certain months, so advance planning is important. From here you can walk along a path to Reading Museum through the Abbey Quarter and explore other historic spots.
Did you know?
A medieval wooden wheel from St Giles Mill was found during excavations at The Oracle shopping centre and is now on display at the museum. This discovery shows how historical layers lie buried beneath Reading's modern buildings.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Reading).
HM Prison Reading
391 m
St James's Church, Reading
484 m
The Blade
547 m
Assize Courts
590 m
Abbey Gateway
578 m
Blake's Lock
242 m
Albion Terrace, Reading
565 m
Watlington House
388 m
Sacred Heart Church, Reading
357 m
Abbey Mill
579 m
Reading Abbey
458 m
King's Meadow
498 m
Wesley Methodist Church
355 m
Memorial to Henry I
537 m
Hugh de Boves and Hugh of Faringdon Memorials (Reading)
444 m
Robed Figure
479 m
Riverside Museum
50 m
Main block and flanking wings at Royal Berkshire Hospital
537 m
The Fisherman's Cottage
215 m
173-183, Kings Road
194 m
Shelter At North East Corner Of Forbury Gardens
521 m
Bel and the dragon
25 m
Sumer Is Icumen In (Relief, Reading Abbey)
459 m
Rustic Fountain
546 m
10, Abbot's Walk
499 m
11 And 12, Abbot's Walk
489 m
Archway Connecting Forbury Gardens to Abbey Ruins. Including Retaining Walls Flanking Path to Abbey Ruins
496 m
14, St John's Road
365 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes