The River & Rowing Museum is situated in the picturesque town of Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England. It is nestled on a site at Mill Meadows, a location that offers stunning views of the River Thames. This museum is a perfect destination for those interested in the history and culture of rowing, the River Thames, and the local town of Henley-on-Thames.
The River & Rowing Museum is divided into three main galleries, each representing a unique theme. The first gallery focuses on the non-tidal River Thames, exploring its history, ecology, and significance to the local area. The second gallery is dedicated to the international sport of rowing, showcasing its evolution from ancient times to the modern Olympics. The third gallery delves into the history and culture of the local town of Henley-on-Thames.
The River & Rowing Museum was officially inaugurated in November 1998 by Queen Elizabeth II. The museum building, designed by the modernist architect Sir David Chipperfield, has been recognized for its architectural excellence. It won the prestigious Royal Fine Art Commission Building of the Year award in 1999, further establishing its reputation as a significant cultural landmark.
One of the highlights of the River & Rowing Museum is the family-friendly 'The Wind in the Willows' attraction, installed in 2004. This exhibit is a walk-through recreation of the beloved 1908 Kenneth Grahame book, complete with models, sets, and an audio-guide. It features all the E.H. Shepard illustrations from the book, offering an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
The River & Rowing Museum offers a unique collection of video clips, providing a dynamic and engaging way to learn about rowing and the River Thames. A standout feature in the Schwarzenbach International Rowing Gallery is the interactive exhibit 'In the Cox's Seat'. This exhibit allows visitors to sit in a rowing boat and experience what it's like to participate in a race at the Henley Royal Regatta, offering a truly immersive experience.
Specialized & Alternative Nature & Natural History Historic house Industrial heritage Person & Artist Profession & Craft Sports
#160 Nature & Natural History in England #115 Industrial & heritage museums in England #105 Person & artist museums in England #13 Profession & craft museums in England #9 Sports museums in England #181 Nature & Natural History in United Kingdom #135 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #127 Person & artist museums in United Kingdom #19 Profession & craft museums in United Kingdom #10 Sports museums in United Kingdom #155 Profession & craft museums in Europe #27 Sports museums in Europe
Mill Meadows, Henley-on-Thames
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River & Rowing Museum has 1 rating.
The River & Rowing Museum in Henley-on-Thames offers visitors an engaging experience focused on the Thames River and the sport of rowing. The museum's exhibits provide information on the history of rowing, the local area, and the river's ecosystem. Many visitors appreciate the interactive displays and the Wind in the Willows exhibit, which is particularly popular with children. The museum's architecture, with its modern design, is often noted as impressive. However, some visitors find the admission price to be somewhat high for the size of the museum. The café receives mixed reviews, with some enjoying the refreshments while others find it lacking. Overall, the museum appears to be well-maintained and offers a good balance of educational content and entertainment, especially for those interested in rowing or the local history of the Thames.
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