Natural History Museum, London: A Traveller's Guide
Welcome to a World of Natural Wonders in South Kensington, London
The Natural History Museum in London isn’t just any museum; it’s a journey through time and a testament to the natural world’s splendour. As a seasoned guide with countless visits under my belt, I still find myself mesmerised by the stories etched in its halls. Whether you’re here to stand in awe of the towering dinosaurs or to unravel the mysteries of the universe, this iconic institution is a haven for curious minds.
Embarking on Your Adventure: A Practical Start
- Best Times for a Visit: Aim for early mornings during weekdays. The museum has a tranquil atmosphere then, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its wonders without the hustle and bustle.
- Entry Essentials: Admission is free, a rare treat in London! However, consider making a donation to help preserve this historical jewel. Some special exhibitions may require tickets, so check ahead.
- Getting Here and Around: Located in the heart of South Kensington, the museum is easily accessible by tube, bus, or foot. Don’t miss the stunning façade before you enter; it’s a prelude to the marvels inside. Find detailed information on our essential information section.
Practical Information Visiting The Natural History Museum
Tube / Metro
Address: Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
Nearest Stations: South Kensington (Piccadilly, District and Circle lines) approx. a 5-min walk away.
Which Tube Zone? Zone 1
Opening Times
The Natural History Museum in London welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 am to 5:50 pm (last entry 5:30pm), with exhibition opening times subject to variation. Be sure to check the museum’s website or enquire upon arrival for the latest information. Please note that the museum is closed from December 24th to 26th.
Time Needed to Visit
Allocate at least 3-4 hours but you can easily spend the whole day in the museum.
Accessibility
The main entrance on Cromwell Road is accessible with a step-free access via ramp. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge. Wheelchair-accessible toilets available. Assistance dogs welcome. Large print gallery guides and audio descriptions available for visually impaired visitors. For those with with hearing impairments, hearing loops available at information desks and various points. Quiet and low lighting spaces available for neurodiverse needs. Free companion tickets available for paid exhibitions.
Good to Know
Admission is free although some temporary exhibitions and events are charged for.
The Natural History Museum in London is based in South Kensington. But there’s another museum, Natural History Museum at Tring in Hertfortshire under its care.
Why You Should Visit the Natural History Museum
Who Is the Natural History Museum and Exhibits are for?
Contrary to the common misconception, the Natural History Museum isn’t just for children. While it’s undoubtedly kid-friendly, with interactive exhibits and educational activities that spark the imagination of younger visitors, adults will find plenty to captivate them too. Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of a fascinating way to spend the day, the museum offers a rich, engaging experience for all ages.
How Long Does It Take to Visit Natural History Museum?
The time it takes to explore the museum can vary widely depending on your interests and pace. As a rule of thumb, allocate at least 2 to 3 hours for a general visit. This should give you enough time to see the major highlights. However, if you’re a detail-oriented visitor who loves to read every exhibit description or someone who wants to participate in a guided tour or workshop, you might want to set aside the better part of a day.
Must-See Exhibits and Hidden Gems in the Natural History Museum
From towering dinosaur skeletons to awe-inspiring displays of marine life, the Natural History Museum in London is a treasure trove of natural wonders. This section will guide you through the must-see exhibits that command attention and capture the imagination, as well as hidden gems nestled within the museum’s vast collection.
Highlights
Dinosaur Gallery
The impressive Dinosaur Gallery, including the roaring T-Rex, allows visitors of all ages to marvel at the awe-inspiring scale and detail.
Blue Whale Display
The Hintze Hall’s centrepiece, a life-size model of a Blue Whale, “Hope”, is a humbling reminder of nature’s magnificence.
Darwin Centre
A less frequented but incredibly fascinating area where you can peek into the scientific heart of the museum.
Interactive and Immersive Experiences
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: For those hungry for more, these tours offer insights into the museum’s research and conservation efforts.
- Attenborough Studio: Named after the legendary Sir David Attenborough, this studio hosts interactive shows that bring nature’s stories to life.
Hidden Gems & Best Selfie Spots
Sophie the Stegosaurus
Greet the most intact Stegosaurus fossil ever found. Towering at three metres and stretching almost six metres long, Sophie is breathtaking.
Location: Earth Hall in the Red Zone.
Laetoli Canine
Encounter our ancestors in the Human Evolution gallery with a 3.5-million-year-old tooth, the museum’s oldest hominin fossil.
Location: Red Zone.
The Ostro Stone
One of the world’s largest flawless gemstones in the Minerals gallery, the Ostro stone is a stunning cut topaz, weighing 9,381 carats.
Location: Green Zone
Winchcombe Meteorite
Witness the first meteorite recovered in the UK for 30 years. The Winchcombe meteorite is a rare specimen known as carbonaceous chondrite.
Location: The Vault in Green Zone on 1st floor.
Hintze Hall Balconies
Explore the diverse displays on the balconies of Hintze Hall, from seabirds to minerals, and catch a unique view of Hope the blue whale and the ancient giant sequoia.
Location: Upper floors of Hintze Hall.
The Giant Sequoia
Stand in awe of the Giant Sequoia, a majestic marvel of the natural world. This towering specimen, over 1,300 years old, showcases the longevity and resilience of these ancient trees.
Location: Upper balcony of Hintze Hall.
Images of Nature Gallery
Dive into a visual history in the Images of Nature gallery, where art meets science. Enjoy 350 years of natural world representations, from traditional paintings to modern scans.
Location: Blue Zone opposite the Dinosaurs gallery.
Zoology Spirit Building
For something truly unique, explore the spirit collection, preserved in alcohol, including an octopus and a giant toad. Behind-the-scenes tours offer an in-depth experience.
Location: Orange Zone, next to the Attenborough Studio.
Beyond the Exhibits: A Moment of Respite
Café and Dining
From elegant afternoon teas to quick snacks, the museum caters to all tastes. The café in the Hintze Hall is particularly splendid.
The Wildlife Garden
Nestled within the museum grounds, it’s a peaceful spot to reflect on your visit.
Charles Darwin's Collection at the Natural History Museum
Discover Charles Darwin’s remarkable legacy at the Natural History Museum. Explore a curated selection of specimens from his HMS Beagle voyage, including Darwin’s own observations of geology and natural specimens. Notable highlights include the Porites coral from the Cocos Islands and the first edition of his groundbreaking work, “On the Origin of Species,” displayed in the Treasures gallery.
For more fascinating details, visit the museum’s section on Darwin’s collection here.
Map of the Natural History Museum
At the Natural History Museum in London, you can explore exciting galleries for free, grab a bite to eat, and find unique gifts in the shop. Use the museum’s map to find your way around easily and check out the PDF on their website for more details. On the map, different colours represent distinct zones, guiding you effortlessly through your journey of discovery. It’s a great way to see everything from dinosaurs to gems for a fun day out.
History Of the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in London has a really interesting story. It started as part of the British Museum because they had so many nature-related items. But there got to be so many that in 1881, they needed to make a whole new museum just for them. That’s how the Natural History Museum came to be its own place, all about the wonders of nature.
Architecture of the Museum
Its striking Romanesque architecture, designed by Alfred Waterhouse, was a bold statement of Victorian ambition and curiosity about the natural world. The building itself is considered a piece of art, adorned with intricate terracotta tiles that depict various flora and fauna, symbolising the museum’s commitment to celebrating nature’s diversity.
Natural History Museum as a Research Institution
Over the years, the museum has evolved from merely a repository of specimens to a leading research institution, playing a pivotal role in major scientific discoveries and environmental conservation efforts. It houses over 80 million items spanning billions of years, including some collected by Charles Darwin himself.
Insider Tips for a Memorable Visit
- Photography: Capture your memories, but remember, flash photography is restricted in certain areas.
- Souvenir Shopping: The museum shop is a trove of unique gifts and educational finds. Perfect for bringing a piece of history back home.
- Neighbourhood Explorations: South Kensington is rich in cultural sites. Post-visit, wander towards the nearby Science Museum or enjoy a stroll in Hyde Park.
Planning Your Day: Before and After the Visit
- Before the Museum: If you start your day early, consider enjoying a leisurely breakfast in one of South Kensington’s charming cafés. The area is bustling with options that cater to all tastes and dietary requirements.
- Lunch Options: Yes, you can have lunch at the museum! There are several dining options within, from the grand café in the Hintze Hall offering light meals and snacks to more substantial offerings in The Kitchen, where you can enjoy hot meals. For those looking for a quick bite, various smaller cafes and kiosks are scattered throughout the museum.
- After the Museum: South Kensington is a cultural hub, making it easy to plan a full day of exploration. The Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum are just next door, both offering free entry. If you fancy a stroll or a bit of relaxation, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are a short walk away. For a splendid end to your day, consider booking an evening performance at the Royal Albert Hall, which is also nearby.
Additional Tips for Overseas Visitors to the Natural History Museum
- Language Support: Audio guides and information booklets are available in several languages, making it easier for international visitors to navigate and enjoy the museum.
- Currency and Payments: While entry is free, any purchases within the museum (such as souvenirs or meals) will require payment in British pounds. Most places accept major international credit cards.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum, allowing you to stay connected and share your experiences in real-time.
Where is the Natural History Museum? How to Get There
Located in the heart of London in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is easily accessible, with excellent transport links making it a convenient destination for visitors to reach and explore.
By London Underground (Tube / Metro / Subway)
Nearest Underground station is South Kensington (Piccadilly, District and Circle lines) and it’s approx. a 5-min walk away.
Tube Zone: Natural History Museum is in Zone 1, the central zone of London’s public transport network.
By Bus
Multiple bus routes provide convenient access to the Natural History Museum, including 70, 74, N74, N97 and 345.
Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Buses
Several hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus companies in London include stops near the Natural History Museum, offering convenient access for tourists. Some of the popular hop-on hop-off bus operators that stop near the museum include Big Bus Tours, The Original Tour and Golden Tours.
Car Parking for Those Driving
Given the traffic congestion and limited parking spaces in central London, we highly recommend utilising public transport options when visiting the Natural History Museum. However, for those who prefer to drive, there are several car parks conveniently located near the museum. The closest options include the Q-Park Queensway, approximately a 10-minute walk away, and the Union Car Parks in South Kensington, just a short distance from the museum.
Cycling
Bike racks for your own bicycle: Available on Exhibition Road
Santander Cycles docking stations: Located on Exhibition Road and Thurloe Place, close to South Kensington Tube station.
Walking to the Natural History Museum
A pleasant and convenient option for those exploring London. You can easily plan your route and calculate timings using TFL’s Journey Planner, which takes into account your starting point and provides detailed directions.
Accessibility at the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum London strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors, ensuring that everyone has access to buildings, exhibitions, and collections. Should you need assistance during your visit, please don’t hesitate to approach a staff member at entrances.
Both entrances are accessible and you can choose which one to use depending on your needs:
- Cromwell Road main entrance: At the front of the Museum, offering step-free access facilitated by a ramp.
- Exhibition Road entrance: This side entrance does not provide step-free access. However, there is a wheelchair lift available from the entrance lobby to the galleries. If you’re visiting as a group with wheelchair users, you can avoid queueing by using this entrance.
You can bring your own wheelchair or borrow one for free from the cloakrooms just inside both entrances. Wheelchair-accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities and lifts are clearly signposted and marked on the museum map.
- Large print, Braille, and tactile guides are offered for select exhibitions. Staff are available for additional assistance.
- Audio-described tours narrated by Sir David Attenborough available for Hintze Hall, Human Evolution Gallery and Volcanoes and Earthquakes Gallery.
- Hearing loops are available at information desks, Darwin Centre, and Images of Nature gallery.
- British Sign Language interpreters may be arranged for free public programmes with two weeks’ notice.
- Deaf-led tours offer insights into the spirit collection, including Archie the giant squid and specimens collected by Charles Darwin.
- The Deaf Messaging Service alerts subscribers to fire alarms via mobile phone.
There are quiet spaces throughout the Museum, offering lower noise levels and ample seating, all conveniently marked on the museum map. These include: Lasting Impressions (with specimens to touch), Minerals gallery (natural light), Images of Nature (low lighting), Contemplation Room (for prayer and reflection), Cocoon, and Zoology spirit building. Ear defenders can be borrowed from information desks for added comfort.
- On-site: Limited parking spaces are available on-site for Blue Badge holders, but availability cannot be guaranteed. To secure a space, please book in advance by contacting +44 (0)20 7942 5000 and requesting to speak with the Security Reception team. Access to these spaces is via Queen’s Gate to the west of the Museum.
- Off-site: There are 12 Blue Badge parking spaces on Exhibition Road. These spaces cannot be booked in advance and allow parking for up to four hours between 8:30am and 6:30pm.
Guide dogs are welcome throughout the museum except for the Spirit Collection Tours.
Accessibility Map
You can view the museum map image above or download the original museum map in PDF format from the official website, clearly marking all accessible points.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Visiting Natural History Museum
Is entry to the Natural History Museum free?
Yes, entry to the main galleries of the museum is free for all visitors. Some special exhibitions and events may require a ticket, which can be purchased online or at the museum.
Are there dining options within the museum?
Absolutely. The museum offers a variety of dining options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements.
How long should I plan for my visit?
We recommend spending at least 2-3 hours to explore the highlights. If you’re interested in more detailed exploration or attending a guided tour, consider setting aside a full day.
Can I take photos inside the museum?
Yes, photography for personal use is allowed in most areas of the museum. However, flash photography and tripods are prohibited in certain galleries to protect the exhibits.
What are the museum's opening hours?
The museum is typically open daily from 10:00 am to 5:50 pm, with last entry at 5:30 pm. It’s always a good idea to check the museum’s website for any changes to opening hours before your visit.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the museum is committed to accessibility for all visitors. It offers step-free access, accessible toilets, and wheelchair hire, among other services. Find more information in our Accessibility section.
Where is the best place to start my visit?
Many visitors start at the iconic Hintze Hall, home to the stunning Blue Whale skeleton, but with the museum’s map and colour-coded zones, you’re free to explore any area that piques your interest first.
What are some must-see exhibits at the Natural History Museum?
Don’t miss the iconic Blue Whale in Hintze Hall, the Dinosaurs gallery, and the Darwin Centre. For hidden gems, check out Sophie the Stegosaurus, the stunning Ostro stone, and the intriguing Winchcombe meteorite.
Are there interactive exhibits suitable for adults?
Yes, the museum offers several interactive experiences that cater to adults, such as the Earthquake Simulator and the Volcanoes and Earthquakes gallery. The Attenborough Studio also hosts engaging live shows.
Can I join a guided tour to learn more about the exhibits?
Absolutely. The museum offers a variety of guided tours that provide deeper insights into its collections and exhibitions. These tours are a great way to enhance your understanding of the natural world.
Is there an exhibit on human evolution?
Yes, the Human Evolution gallery offers a fascinating look at our ancestors, featuring significant finds like the Laetoli canine, a 3.5-million-year-old tooth.
Are the exhibits child-friendly?
Many exhibits are designed to be family-friendly, offering interactive and educational activities that engage children while they learn about natural history. The museum also hosts special events and activities for younger visitors.
How often do the exhibits change?
The museum frequently updates its galleries and offers temporary exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Check the museum’s website for the latest exhibition news and schedules.
Is there a second Natural History Museum other than the one in London? Where is it?
Yes, there is a second site of the Natural History Museum located in Tring, Hertfordshire. The address is Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6AP.
Why is there a second Natural History Museum?
The Natural History Museum at Tring was originally the private museum of Lionel Walter, 2nd Baron Rothschild. It opened to the public in 1892. The collection was gifted to the nation and became part of the Natural History Museum in 1937. This branch focuses on showcasing an extensive range of specimens, including an impressive display of taxidermy, and serves as a research facility while providing educational outreach and public access to the wonders of natural history in a location outside of London.
