Natural History Museum Natural History Museum

Holding over 80 million specimens and items, London’s Natural History Museum is a world-class visitor attraction and leading science research centre.

Find everything you need to know about visiting this iconic museum, including information on the different galleries, events, restaurants, shops and even the museum’s best kept secrets,

Things to know before visiting the Natural History Museum

• Admission to the Museum is free, however they may charge for entry to some temporary exhibitions and events.
• You can book free tickets in advance for General Admission Entry, although it’s not required.
• Members enjoy unlimited free entry to all exhibitions, priority access and exclusive events. Become a member today.
• The museum is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5.50pm, however Christmas and Bank Holiday hours may differ, so make sure to check the website beforehand.

Family favourites

Embark on a self-guided tour to explore some of the Museum's major attractions, such as dinosaurs, whales, and volcanoes. This tour is perfect for families, whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back. Start your tour by entering from Cromwell Road and turning left from Hintze Hall. It typically takes around two hours.

Hidden treasures

The museum has plenty of secrets waiting to be uncovered. This tour takes you through some of the Museum's hidden gems and is suitable for all ages.

Check out cool stuff on Hintze Hall's upper-floor balconies, like birds and minerals. The second floor has a unique view of Hope and an old giant sequoia.

Visit the Zoology spirit building near the Attenborough Studio in the orange zone or explore a collection of 23 million specimens preserved in alcohol, including an octopus and vampire bat and you can even embark on a behind-the-scenes tour.chat

Blue zone

The blue zone at the Natural History Museum offers a condensed journey through diverse exhibits. Explore the Dinosaurs Gallery with a roaring T. rex and Triceratops skull, discover human evolution, and marvel at the rich diversity of mammals in the Mammals Gallery.

Other highlights include images of nature, avian life in the Birds Gallery, minerals in the Minerals Gallery, and the cosmic wonders of Space and Astronomy. The Blue zone also features exhibits on fishes, amphibians, reptiles, marine invertebrates, and insects, providing a concise and captivating overview of the natural world.

Green zone

Embark on a fascinating journey through natural history at Hintze Hall, where you'll walk beneath the awe-inspiring skeleton of the largest animal on Earth. Dive into 4.5 billion years of Earth's history with exhibits like Birds, featuring an extinct dodo and Victorian avian anatomy; Creepy Crawlies, a haven for insect enthusiasts; Minerals, showcasing the museum's 1881 charm; and The Vault, displaying unique natural treasures such as the Winchcombe meteorite.

Explore the Fossils from Britain gallery to trace our fossil record, uncover the secrets of Fossil Marine Reptiles, and delve into 22 treasures spanning Earth's history in the aptly named Treasures exhibit. For a more exclusive experience, retreat to The Anning Rooms—a private lounge, study area, and restaurant reserved for Members and Patrons.

Red zone

Step into the captivating Earth Hall and be greeted by the awe-inspiring Stegosaurus, the most intact fossil skeleton of its kind. Standing at three meters tall and nearly six meters long, this dramatic specimen sets the stage for an exploration of Earth's wonders. Uncover the forces that shape our planet in the Volcanoes and Earthquakes exhibit, complete with a thrilling earthquake simulator.

Trace the fascinating journey of human evolution and delve into the Earth's Treasury gallery to discover a stunning array of minerals, gemstones, and rocks. The From the Beginning gallery takes you on a journey through the evolution of life on Earth, while the Restless Surface gallery unravels the impact of wind, water, and weather on our planet. Don't miss the Lasting Impressions gallery, where remarkable fossil evidence unveils long-ago events, creating a comprehensive and enthralling experience.

Orange zone

Discover the hidden marvels of the Zoology spirit building at the Museum, where over 23 million specimens are meticulously preserved in alcohol in the spirit collection. Some specimens from this vast collection are showcased near the Attenborough Studio. This public space, nestled away from the bustling main areas, provides a serene environment for reflection and prayer.

The Cocoon in the Darwin Centre offers an immersive experience, allowing you to explore science and nature, and engage with experts at events hosted in the Attenborough Studio.

Shops and Cafés

Transport yourself to a prehistoric era at T. rex Restaurant in the Green zone, where you can dine with dinosaurs. The family-friendly restaurant serves up a menu featuring pizzas, salads, toasted sandwiches, and tempting desserts, including options for kids.

For a quick break, head to Central Cafe in the Blue zone, offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, crisps, cakes, pastries, and fruit for takeaway, along with the convenience of high chairs.

In the Red zone, The Kitchen awaits with a diverse selection of sandwiches, wraps, seasonal salads, and delightful cakes, along with special lunch and activity packs for kids.

Take a moment to refuel at the Darwin Centre Cafe with light bites such as sandwiches, salads, fruit, pastries, or crisps.

Exhibitions

Since 1990, the Museum has been showcasing exhibitions that have captivated audiences worldwide. Find out more on current or upcoming exhibitions at the Natural History Museum.

Getting to the Natural History Museum

By Tube

The closest Tube station is South Kensington, just a short five-minute walk from the main entrance on Cromwell Road. Trains on the Piccadilly, District, and Circle lines stop there, but please note that this station doesn't have step-free access.

If you prefer Gloucester Road station, it's approximately a 12-minute walk from the main entrance on Cromwell Road. This station also serves the Piccadilly, District, and Circle lines. While it does have a lift, it's important to mention that it's not step-free either.

By bus

There are several bus routes that stop near the Museum. Visit Transport for London’s website for further details.

By bicycle

There are cycle racks on Exhibition Road. The nearest Santander Cycles are on both Exhibition Road and on Thurloe Place, which is near South Kensington Tube Station.

By coach

If you are travelling by coach, the drop-off point is outside the main entrance on Cromwell Road.

By car

The museum does not offer on-site parking, and parking around the Museum is scarce. The other modes of transport are recommended.