reme museum of technology

Being ex-REME I knew Arborfield well, it is about 12 miles from Reading, south of the M4. I popped in to pick up some helicopter parts for the IHM. Very nice people, got a cuppa fron another early bird as awaited the curator. Also had to get a pass to enter their store in the Garrison. Most intrigued to actually see a vehicle from my past, the Mine-resistant Bedford RL outside was the subject of my work as a draughtsman when I was 18 (I thought they'd all been dropped off and left at Aden when our forces left), at Always Welding, Ash near Aldershot. I;m sure it had an armoured radiator cover too, but the one on show does not. They let me visit the whole layout and it beats the IWM for clarity, lighting, etc. An Austin Champ, a type I've worked on, and others, brought back memories of a more optimistic life (younger then). Alas Arborfield loses REME in part after 73 years to a joint services training facility at Lyneham, nearer to me at Bristol, but not the home of REME from 1.10.1942 as Arborfield was. Somehow, I had the date wrong as I recall a date in common with the SAS: 23.9.1942. There were at least 6 rifles I had not seen in the flesh before, and I was once a weapons instructor so know rifles (etc.) fairly well. The MP-40 was minus magazine and not of the best condition, but it was there, unlike some museums! There was a Chicom version of the AK-47 (folding bayonet identifies), and a Soviet LMG., etc. The two top ladies there are very helpful; one gent kind though he was to me, seemed very slightly anti-German, so I forgot to mention that I'm partly German! (Not just Jewish). The Garrison security, like at Lyneham is staffed by Gurkhas, we always get on so had a good laugh as he filled in my pass. The lady taking me in to their store was a civilian yet a good hard-working team member type so befitting a services museum. She managed to carry a heavier box than I would have liked a lady to carry, without complaint! The radio display has an audio Morse code, I still could not catch much of it! They did not have an AVO Mk8, but I will present them with one of their's back, which I got from a pal who adnitted taking it and can now restore to its rightful owners! The armour seemed to be moving to Lyneham that same day, Tuesday, last week. Some of it on civvy low-loaders. The Challenger ARV was there and a D-Day beach clearance job based on a Sherman chassis, and 2 Volkswagens. RE/REME got bored in 1945-47 so reopened the factory for something to do, for which most of us who drive VW products like my Audi will be forever grateful; 'shame they did not re-open our own motor trade too? Some uniforms and kit, plenty to see, but as soon to move be quick! Very professionally presented, I could not fault it. All on ground level, with loos and an eatery; see no problems for the disabled or mothers with children. Incidentally, REME maintained Army helicopters, so very apt for me now. Parking is free and entry. Donations acceptable.

Had a great time there with 9 and 14 year old their Mum and Gran. We all had a fab time. Coffee on arrival, mini assault course with very polite helpful young soldiers looking after the kids as they timed their individual attempts. Some were only 5 and trying so hard. 2 museums where we spent ages . Marching next which was done so professionally . Sandwich lunch great value. Brilliant visit. Well donr REME.

Although not a big museum the REME museum had enough to keep us occupied for 4 to 5 hours.Some large pieces of transport, plenty of armoury, check out the old muskets .......barrels of 1 metre + (wonder how accurate they were !), also some interactive bits, and lots of items made by the REME students while training and of course the regiments medals. Grandad and grandsons (both teenagers) very happy with their day.Pity the museum is moving to Lynam, very pleased we visited before their move.

Thank you for your great review. We are unfortunately closing temporarily in April. We will be open again in the near future at a new location. There is lots of information about our move on our website www.rememuseum.org.uk. We will love to see you in the museum in the future.Oliver Parr - Education Officer

Our three grandsons lovely the museum.Fun was had by all walking round looking for the lost gnomesAlso lots of vehicles to see outside.

Interesting displays of this part of the army's history.Fascinating to see the OLD equipment that looks out of place in modern electronics.Low key displayDon't get the staff sitting at desks mixed up with the displays!!

Great place to visit with children. Brilliant activities and even a junk modelling room. Very good events in the school holidays especially the assault course, my kids loved it. The cafe serves great food at very good prices.

It was reasonably priced and the children are given an activity sheet. Some of the exhibits are interactive, you can dress up at the beginning, make things and play with some of the items. Plenty of information about the exhibits and lots to see and do. A really good day out for young children up to about 13/14.

Its easy to park, easy to get a drink / snack, not too crowded. Downside is its a little run down, lacks much interaction and lots of children will be disappointed by lots of dummies on display and 'stuff' behind glass doors / cabinets. Museum has a lot of interesting stuff to tell...but does nt use the latest technology to get its message across.

Really good value. The staff are friendly and informative and the onsite shop is really good value for money. You can buy army clothing and camo nets along with pocket money items.We have been several times and highly recommend this as a place to visit at the weekend or during the school holidays as they always have something planned.

A very good place to go to, especially if you have children who have an 'army interest'. Easy to find and plenty of parking

my grandson was in awe of the tanks and guns and history. Even the light entertainment afterwards of finding the garden gnomes, he thoroughly enjoyed his visit

The grandchildren had a great time especially on the mini assault course. Plenty to see, good for boys and girls

What a lovely museum, was aware it was there and live in Reading but first visit today with 2 young ( 3 and 4) grandchildren.Although they were a little disconcerted by the moving mannequin on entering the main area they soon settled down and enjoyed the exhibits. They loved the Gnome hunt, enjoyed making and flying parachutes and spinners and took in more detail than you'd think they would. The gentleman on the desk was so friendly and helpful, overall a great trip out.

Found ourselves here due to bad weather. Interesting and plenty to see and read. Quiet on a Friday afternoon. Unlikely to go again, save it for a rainy day.