The Natural History Museum promotes the discovery, understanding, enjoyment, and responsible use of the natural world. Explore world-class collections, fantastic exhibitions and cutting-edge research online, or visit the landmark buildings.'
The museum building steals the show from the nearby Science Museum. A high Victorian cathedral like work of architecture, it employed some of the latest construction techniques at the time, including the decorative terracotta castings of birds and animals visible around the entrances.
The organisers have made huge efforts over recent years to make the museum more up to date and interactive, which have proved successful. Although there are still a few exhibits that might not have looked out of place at the original opening in 1881, this is perhaps because they have stood the test of time, and, besides which, they add to the charm of the place.
The first things you see upon entering are the huge fossilised dinosaur skeletons in the Life Galleries, as well as some newer animatronic dinosaurs attacking each other. Other areas include the Mammals Gallery, which has a life sized model of a blue whale, the Creepy Crawlies Room, and the Earth Galleries, which describe the earth’s evolution and contains an earthquake simulation room.
For a closer look at the museums huge collection of zoological specimens in the Darwin Centre, you will need to make an appointment for a guided tour. (Book online)
A nice feature for families with children are the “Explorer Backpacks,” available for the under 7’s. These contain binoculars, drawing materials and activities, and cover a variety of topics for the kids to explore. (£25 deposit required) You also get a child sized explorer helmet.
The museum also stages a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year such as wildlife photography, and “Dino Jaws,” and there is an ice rink and fair over the Christmas period – contact the museum for details.
A restaurant, a café and a sandwich bar, as well as a snack bar and picnic area, make sure you are never short of an opportunity to re-fuel. There are three different shops, The Museum Shop, The Dino Store and The Earth Shop.
The Natural History Museum is big, and there’s a lot in it, so if you want to take it all in, allow yourself enough time. It is free though, so you can always return another day to finish your visit.
Address:
Natural History Museum
Cromwell Road
London
SW7 5BD
England, UK
Opening Times:
Open every day from 10.00 am to 5.50 pm
Last admission 5.30 pm
Closed 24th - 26th December
