The Natural History Museum in London is not just a museum; it is a "cathedral of nature." From its striking Romanesque architecture to the world-famous blue whale skeleton suspended in the central hall, it is a place of wonder, discovery, and scientific brilliance. Housing over 80 million life and earth science specimens, it is one of the most significant research institutions in the world.
A Masterpiece of Architecture
The museum building itself is as much of a draw as its contents. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse and opened in 1881, it is a stunning example of Victorian Romanesque architecture. The entire exterior is clad in terracotta tiles, featuring intricate carvings of animals and plants.
The centerpiece is the Hintze Hall, a vast, vaulted space that takes your breath away the moment you enter. For decades, it was home to "Dippy" the Diplodocus, but in 2017, he was replaced by "Hope," a 25-meter-long blue whale skeleton. Hope is suspended in a diving pose, symbolising our responsibility to protect the natural world.
Unmissable Collections
The museum's collection is divided into four main zones: Blue, Green, Red, and Orange. Each explores a different facet of the natural world.
Dinosaurs (Blue Zone)
The Dinosaur Gallery is arguably the most famous part of the museum. It features a stunning array of skeletons, fossils, and interactive displays. The star of the show is the animatronic T-Rex—a lifelike, roaring predator that has been wowing (and scaring!) children for generations. You'll also see the first-ever Triceratops skull ever discovered and a massive Stegosaurus skeleton.
The Mammals Gallery (Blue Zone)
This gallery houses incredible specimens of everything from tiny shrews to massive elephants. A full-size model of a blue whale dominates the room, providing a sense of scale for the largest creature ever to have lived on Earth. It is a fantastic place to learn about the diversity of mammalian life.
Earth's Treasury (Red Zone)
Step into a shimmering world of minerals, gems, and crystals. This zone explores the geological forces that shaped our planet. You can see rare diamonds, chunks of molten rock, and even a piece of Mars. The "Visions of Earth" escalator takes you through a giant metal globe, leading to a floor dedicated to earthquakes and volcanoes, complete with a popular earthquake simulator.
The Darwin Centre (Orange Zone)
This modern addition to the museum is a working research facility where you can see scientists at work. It houses millions of specimens preserved in alcohol, including "Archie," a 8.6-meter-long giant squid. The "Cocoon" tour allows you to walk through the facility and learn about how species are identified and preserved.
Science and Research
While it is a popular tourist destination, the Natural History Museum is first and foremost a center for scientific excellence. It employs hundreds of world-leading scientists who study everything from climate change and biodiversity to the origins of our solar system.
The library and archives are a treasure trove of scientific history, containing the works of Charles Darwin, Captain Cook, and many other pioneers of natural science. The museum's collections are used by researchers from all over the world to better understand our past and protect our future.
Seasonal Highlights
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year: Every winter, the museum hosts this world-famous exhibition, showcasing the most stunning images of the natural world. It is a must-see for anyone interested in photography or nature.
Ice Rink: During the Christmas season, the museum's front lawn is transformed into one of London's most beautiful ice rinks, with the illuminated Victorian building providing a fairytale backdrop.
Dino Snores: For the ultimate museum experience, children (and sometimes adults!) can spend the night at the museum. The "Dino Snores" sleepover includes a torch-lit tour, workshops, and the chance to sleep under the stars (or a whale!).
Visitor Information
Booking: Admission is free, but you must book a timed entry slot online in advance. This helps manage the flow of visitors and ensures everyone has a comfortable experience.
Opening Times: The museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:50 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm). It is closed on December 24-26.
Dining: There are Several cafes and a restaurant within the museum. The T. Rex Grill is great for families, while the Darwin Centre Cafe offers a more modern setting.
Family Facilities: The museum is incredibly family-friendly, with plenty of interactive exhibits, baby-changing facilities, and a dedicated picnic area for those who bring their own lunch.
Nearby Attractions
The museum is located on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, a cultural district known as "Albertopolis."
- Science Museum: Located right next door, it's a fantastic place to explore the history of technology and innovation.
- Victoria and Albert Museum: One of the world's leading museums of art and design, just a few minutes' walk away.
- Royal Albert Hall: One of the world's most famous concert halls is just a short stroll up Exhibition Road.
- Hyde Park: London's largest royal park is at the top of the road, perfect for a run-around after your museum visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend there?
The museum is huge, so allow at least 3 to 4 hours to see the main highlights. If you're a nature lover, you could easily spend the whole day there.
Is it free?
Yes, entry to the permanent collection is free. However, some special exhibitions (like Wildlife Photographer of the Year) require a paid ticket.
Is bag storage available?
Yes, there is a cloakroom where you can store bags and coats for a small fee. Note that large luggage is not permitted.
Is it accessible?
Absolutely. The museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with lifts to all floors. Induction loops are also available for many of the talks and displays.