The Reeds Rd, Tilford, Farnham GU10 2DL

Rural Life Living Museum


The Rural Life Living Museum is in Tilford, Surrey near Farnham in southern England. Formerly known as the Old Kiln Agricultural Museum and the Rural Life Centre, it is an open-air museum of country life run by the Old Kiln Museum Trust, a charitable trust.

Location

About



The Rural Life Living Museum, located in Farnham, England, is a charming open-air museum that offers visitors a unique glimpse into rural life in the past. With its collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and interactive exhibits, the museum provides a fascinating and educational experience for tourists of all ages.

One of the highlights of the Rural Life Living Museum is the collection of historic buildings that have been reconstructed on site. These buildings include a blacksmith's forge, a dairy, a farmworker's cottage, and a chapel, among others. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about the everyday lives of the people who lived and worked in them.

In addition to the buildings, the museum has a collection of historic agricultural equipment and vehicles, including tractors, plows, and wagons. Visitors can see these machines in action during special events and demonstrations.

One of the most popular attractions at the Rural Life Living Museum is the working farm. Here, visitors can see a variety of farm animals, including cows, pigs, and sheep. Children will love the chance to interact with the animals, and there are often opportunities for feeding and petting them.

The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including craft fairs, agricultural shows, and historic reenactments. These events are a great way to experience rural life in a more interactive and immersive way.

For those who want to learn more about the history of rural life in England, the museum has a number of informative exhibits and displays. These include exhibits on traditional crafts, such as basket weaving and pottery, as well as displays on the history of farming and agriculture.

Visitors to the Rural Life Living Museum can also take part in a variety of hands-on activities, such as traditional bread making and butter churning. These activities provide a fun and engaging way to learn about the history and culture of rural England.

Overall, the Rural Life Living Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in rural life and history. With its unique collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating and educational experience that is sure to delight tourists of all ages.

Things to do nearby



The Rural Life Living Museum is a unique destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in rural England. Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, this open-air museum features a collection of historic buildings, gardens, and animals that showcase the region's agricultural heritage. But the fun doesn't end there! Here are some other places and things to do nearby the Rural Life Living Museum that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

1. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

Just a short drive from the museum, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. With over 260 species of animals and birds, including lions, giraffes, and penguins, the park is a great place to get up close and personal with wildlife from around the world. You can also explore the beautiful gardens, which are home to a stunning collection of rare plants and flowers.

2. The Model Village

Located in the charming town of Bourton-on-the-Water, just a few miles from the museum, the Model Village is a unique attraction that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. This one-ninth scale replica of the town features over 200 buildings and includes miniature versions of many of Bourton-on-the-Water's most famous landmarks, such as the Cotswold stone bridges that span the River Windrush.

3. The Cotswold Way

For those who love the great outdoors, the Cotswold Way is a 102-mile walking trail that stretches from Chipping Campden to Bath. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in England, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way for a bite to eat or a pint of locally brewed ale. Even if you don't have time to tackle the entire trail, there are plenty of shorter walks and hikes that offer stunning views of the Cotswold hills.

4. Sudeley Castle and Gardens

Located in the picturesque town of Winchcombe, just a few miles from the museum, Sudeley Castle and Gardens is a historic castle that dates back to the 15th century. The castle has been home to some of England's most famous monarchs, including Henry VIII's sixth wife, Catherine Parr. Today, visitors can explore the castle's fascinating history and admire the beautiful gardens, which are home to over 1,200 different species of plants.

5. The Cotswold Farm Park

Owned by Adam Henson, one of the stars of the popular BBC show "Countryfile," the Cotswold Farm Park is a working farm that offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of the region's most beloved animals. From rare breeds of sheep and pigs to friendly donkeys and alpacas, the farm is a great place to learn about the importance of sustainable farming and animal welfare.

In conclusion, the Rural Life Living Museum is just the beginning of what the Cotswolds has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just having fun with the family, there are plenty of other attractions and activities nearby that will make your visit truly unforgettable. So why not plan a trip today and discover all the wonders of this beautiful region for yourself?

Opening Hours

Thursday10 am–4 pm
Friday10 am–4 pm
Saturday10 am–4 pm
Sunday10 am–4 pm
Monday10 am–4 pm
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed

Bookmark This Place

627 people bookmarked this place
Places nearby

You may also like

Old Kiln Light Railway

Museum

Discover the Old Kiln Light Railway Museum, a unique attraction in Surrey, England. Explore a collection of historic steam engines and railway memorabilia, take a ride on a vintage train through picturesque woodlands, and enjoy child-friendly facilities including a playground and café. Perfect for railway enthusiasts and families alike, the Old Kiln Light Railway Museum is a must-visit destination for a fun day out in Surrey.

RSPB Farnham Heath

Nature preserve

Discover the natural beauty of RSPB Farnham Heath Nature Preserve in Surrey, England. Explore walking trails, spot rare wildlife, and learn from knowledgeable guides. Plan your visit today and escape to this tranquil haven managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Bourne Woods

Hiking area

Explore the beauty of the English countryside at Bourne Woods in Farnham, Surrey. With over 1,000 acres of woodland, hiking trails, picnic spots, and even links to famous movies, Bourne Woods is the perfect destination for tourists looking for an outdoor adventure. Find out more about this stunning area and plan your visit today!

National Trust - Frensham Little Pond

Tourist attraction

Discover the tranquil beauty of Frensham Little Pond, a National Trust site in Surrey, England. Enjoy a peaceful escape in nature, go birdwatching or water activities, explore historic landmarks, and grab a bite at the on-site cafe. Book your visit now and experience this popular tourist attraction.

Waverley Abbey

Abbey

Discover the historic and picturesque Waverley Abbey in Surrey, England. Explore the ruins of the first Cistercian monastery built in England, stroll through the restored gardens, and learn about the lives of the monks who once lived there. With guided tours, beautiful views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, Waverley Abbey is a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

Mother Ludlam's Cave

Tourist attraction

Discover the hidden gem of Farnham, England with a visit to Mother Ludlam's Cave. Book a guided tour and explore the twisting passages, eerie chambers, and natural formations of this underground wonder. Learn about the history and geology of the cave as you hear stories of the local legend of Mother Ludlam. Suitable for visitors of all ages, Mother Ludlam's Cave is a must-see attraction for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in England.

Farnham Maltings

Theatre

Discover the cultural gem of Farnham, England with a visit to the Farnham Maltings Theatre. Enjoy world-class entertainment, local performances, festivals, and cinema screenings in a beautifully restored 18th-century malt house. Don't miss out on the fantastic café-bar and family-friendly activities. Plan your visit to the Farnham Maltings Theatre today.

Gostrey Meadow

Park

Discover the beauty of Gostrey Meadow Park in Farnham, England - a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a tranquil green space to escape city life. Explore the stunning floral displays, children's play area, fitness trail, and traditional bandstand, or simply relax by the tranquil pond. With plenty of recreational activities and facilities, Gostrey Meadow Park offers something for everyone.

Museum of Farnham

Museum

Discover the Museum of Farnham, a hidden gem in the charming market town of Farnham, England. Explore exhibits on local history, industries, and trades, including a reconstructed 19th-century kitchen. Enjoy the beautiful Georgian townhouse and English country garden. Plan your visit now!

Crafts Study Centre

Museum

Crafts Study Centre Museum in Farnham, England is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in exploring British arts and crafts. With its impressive collection of contemporary and historic craft objects, including textiles, ceramics, metalwork, furniture, and more, this museum provides a fascinating insight into the country's artistic traditions. Don't miss the exhibits of renowned artists such as Ethel Mairet, Lucie Rie, and Edward Barnsley. With its research library and archive, temporary exhibitions, and events, the Crafts Study Centre Museum is a must-see for any cultural enthusiast.

The Sculpture Park

Sculpture

Discover The Sculpture Park, an outdoor art museum in England's countryside with over 800 contemporary sculptures. Explore the 10-acre park, see works by renowned artists, enjoy guided tours, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss this unique and immersive destination for art and nature lovers.

Birdworld

Zoo

Looking for a fun and educational day out in the UK? Look no further than Birdworld Zoo in Farnham, Surrey. With over 180 species of birds, interactive activities, and beautiful gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the African Aviary, the Penguin Beach, and the South American Aviary, or take part in a bird of prey encounter. With its extensive collection of rare and endangered species, Birdworld is a must-visit destination for bird lovers and families. Plan your trip to Birdworld today!