Visit us

We welcome everyone to discover and explore our museums and collections. On this page, find all the details you need ahead of a visit.

Our museums and collections may be found across the University’s two campuses: London Road and Whiteknights, and you can use the interactive map above to get directions. General advice on visiting the University may be found here.

London Road campus

The MERL, Special Collections, Art Collections

These three collections share the same building, which was formerly a stunning Victorian home designed by the celebrated Victorian architect Alfred Waterhouse. Here you can enjoy:

• The MERL galleries and the Ladybird Gallery
• The archive and library reading room, which is also home of the University’s Special Collections;
• Display and study spaces, including the home of the Art Collections;
• Shop and café;
• A beautiful urban garden, the perfect place for taking a break or a picnic.

Whiteknights Campus

The Ure Museum, The Cole Museum, The Herbarium

The Ure Museum, the Cole Museum and the University Herbarium are at the heart of the University’s Whiteknights campus. This is a nine-time Green Flag Award winning parklands space, surrounded by woods, meadows, and a lake abundant with wildlife. In addition, shops, cafés and restaurants may be found both on and near to the campus.

Lettering Printing and Graphic Design Collections

These collections are located close to the Earley Gate entrance of the Whiteknights campus. Research access is by appointment, but details of the Typography Department’s exciting range of public exhibitions may be found here.

Geology Collection, East German Studies Archive

Visits to these collections is by appointment. For enquiries or to arrange a visit, please contact the relevant curator.

Opening Times

A summary of these may be found here, with details on the individual collections pages and websites.

Families, Groups and Schools

Interested in a specific type of visit? Learn about our museums and collections’ offers for families, schools, and groups.

Using the Collections

Whether you are planning a visit or exploring online, you can find helpful, practical guidance here.