Thames Valley Police Open Day 2024

We look forward to welcoming you to this year’s Force Open Day, which will be taking place between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 7 September. The event will be hosted at our training centre in Sulhamstead, near Reading.

Last year, the event welcomed over 4,000 people across the course of the day who got to see what goes on behind the scenes at Thames Valley Police. We aim to promote a greater understanding of the many departments and specialist teams within the force, whilst hosting a fun day out for all the family.

This year, over 60 exhibitors will be attending to showcase their work to the public and families and friends of TVP. Among those will be the Forensic Investigation Unit, Roads Policing, Major Crime and some of our staff support networks.

We couldn't have a Force Open Day without our partner agencies so returning to the event are NPAS, Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service, SCAS and our Search and Rescue Teams. 

Throughout the day there will be a number of demonstrations in the main arena from our Public Order Department, Dog Section, Mounted Section, Firearms and Tactical Cycle Teams. 

If you fancy a bit of live music, we'll have performances from TVP Vocals, Mr Grey's Jailhouse Jukebox and Reading Concert Band. 

In Holdsworth Hall, you'll be able to listen to a number of talks providing a deeper insight into some of the roles within the force, including some more educational pieces from Contact Management and the Violence Prevention Partnership.

As always, there will be a number of activities for the whole family to get involved in - try your hand (or foot!) at penalty shootout, have a go in the inflatable zorbs, get your favourite character painted on your face and sign yourself up to get involved in the tug of war championship! The Mounted Section will also be putting on a colouring competition for any budding designers to win the opportunity to be visited by their favourite horse.

A variety of refreshments will be provided within Sully's Restaurant including; burgers, hot dogs, sweet & sour noodles, sandwiches and cakes. Max's ice creams will also be on site for all the iced treats!

FAQS

When and where is the Open Day?

The event will be taking place on Saturday 7 September at Thames Valley Police’s training centre in Sulhamstead, near Reading, RG7 4DX.

The event will run from 10am – 4pm, last admissions are 3.30pm.

What do I need to bring on the day?

We don’t know what the weather will do yet and the event has limited shelter, so please come prepared for a day of typical British summer!

There will be limited seating at the event so don’t forget to bring your picnic blankets with you.

Do I need a ticket?

The Open Day is a free event and you do not need to book tickets so just come along with your family and friends!

Where can I park?

Parking will be provided on site, there will be one-way systems implemented for the purpose of the day to minimise traffic build up around the event.

Are you near public transport?

Public transport in the area is limited, there are no bus services direct to the site. The nearest train station to the event is Theale station.

What happens if it rains?

The TVP Open Day is an open-air venue with limited indoor space, therefore we cannot guarantee shelter to guests in the event of extreme weather.

We ask that guest come prepared for all weather conditions.

Event organisers may reschedule displays or cancel the event, if an extreme weather situation occurs. Display updates and direction will be provided over the public address system by event staff.

Can I bring my dog?

We are only able to allow assistance dogs at the event.