The Museum of English Rural Life houses the most comprehensive national collection of objects, books and archives relating to the history of food, farming and the countryside.

It is the sheer quality and scope of the Library, Archives and  Object Collections that makes MERL exceptional. The collections have Designated status ensuring their importance is recognised nationally and internationally.

As a University Museum and as the founder member of the Rural Museums Network, MERL has built up a reputation as the leading authority in its field and as a centre of excellence in teaching and learning.