Natural History Museum

Stepping Back in Time: A Guide to Exploring the Wonders of the Natural History Museum

For centuries, humans have been captivated by the natural world. We marvel at its diversity, its power, and its mysteries. For those seeking a journey through time and the wonders of the natural world, London’s Natural History Museum is a must-visit destination.

This iconic institution, with its awe-inspiring Victorian architecture, is home to over 80 million specimens, spanning the history of life on Earth. From colossal dinosaur skeletons to shimmering gemstones, from intricate insect displays to a stunning collection of natural treasures, it’s a place where curiosity comes alive!

What to See:

  • Dinosaur Hall: Witness the majesty of dinosaurs with towering skeletons like the Dippy the Diplodocus and the awe-inspiring T. rex.

  • The Blue Whale: Explore the colossal skeleton of a blue whale suspended in the Hintze Hall, a breathtaking sight that highlights the scale of these magnificent creatures.

  • Human Origins Gallery: Journey through the evolution of humans with fascinating fossils and interactive exhibits.

  • Earth Hall: Discover the wonders of our planet from Earth’s earliest beginnings to its present day.

Don’t miss these highlights:

  • Diplodocus (“Dippy”): This massive dinosaur skeleton is a centerpiece, drawing crowds from around the globe.

  • The Hope Diamond: A stunning blue diamond with a legendary past, now part of the museum’s permanent collection and on display in the Smithsonian Gems and Minerals exhibit.

  • Earth Galleries: Explore the Earth’s history through interactive displays and interactive games about dinosaurs, geology, and natural wonders.

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Plan ahead: The Natural History Museum is a popular destination. To avoid lines and make the most of your visit, book tickets online and arrive early in the day or on weekdays.

  • Explore the website: Before you go, check the Natural History Museum’s website (https://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit.html) for current exhibitions, opening hours for specific galleries (some are closed for renovations or updates), and any special events happening.

  • Check the museum map: Familiarize yourself with the museum map before you arrive to plan your route and prioritize which areas you want to see.

  • Allow plenty of time: There’s a lot to see at the museum, so don’t try to cram it all in one visit. Plan for at least 2-3 hours, but ideally, spend a whole day if you want to explore everything thoroughly.

Things to Do:

  • Permanent Galleries:

    • Hintze Hall: Marvel at the colossal skeleton of a blue whale and dinosaur fossils like the Diplodocus.
    • Dinosaur Gallery: Explore the skeletons of various dinosaurs, learn about their evolution and extinction.
    • Human Origins Gallery: Discover the history of human evolution with interactive displays and exhibits on early hominids.

  • Special Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts exciting temporary exhibitions on a wide range of topics. Check their website for details on current offerings.

  • Events:

From interactive workshops for kids to insightful lectures and talks, there’s always something happening at the Natural History Museum.

  • Dinosaurs: Don’t forget to visit the museum’s permanent dinosaur exhibits!

    • Dino Snores Roar: Spend the night in the museum surrounded by dinosaurs (check the website for dates and details).
    • Interactive Dinosaur Exhibits: Learn about different types of dinosaurs, their habitats, and how they lived.

Where to Stay and Eat:

  • Accommodation:
    • The Natural History Museum is located in South Kensington, London. There are many hotels and hostels near the museum where you can stay.
  • Food: You can bring your own food into the museum or enjoy a bite at one of the cafes or restaurants nearby.

Staying Near the Museum:

  • Natural History Museum Cafeteria: Located within the museum, this is a great option for a quick and convenient meal.

  • Accommodation:

    • The Natural History Museum has a website listing hotels and accommodation options near the museum.

Dining Options:

  • The Natural History Museum Cafe: A casual cafe with sandwiches, salads, and hot drinks.

  • The Earth Grill: Offers a range of delicious meals featuring locally sourced ingredients.

  • Earth Kitchen: Located in the museum’s Natural History Museum, this restaurant offers a more formal dining experience with seasonal dishes and stunning views of the Hintze Hall.

  • Dining: The Natural History Museum has its own cafe for a quick bite.

Other Tips:

  • Free Entry: Enjoy the free entry to the permanent galleries!
  • Buy Tickets Online: To save time and money, purchase tickets for special exhibitions online before your visit.

Things to Consider:

  • Plan Your Route: Consider checking the museum’s website for a map and information on current exhibitions and events.

  • Bring Comfortable Shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking at the museum, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Lunchtime Rush: Try to avoid lunchtime if you can. It’s a popular time for visitors, and the cafe will be crowded.

  • Free Time: If you have time, explore the surrounding area.

The Natural History Museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities:

  • Dinosaurs: A Journey Through Time: This exhibit explores the history of dinosaurs from their earliest origins to their extinction.

  • Earth Galleries:

    • The Earth Hall: This iconic hall showcases the museum’s vast collection of dinosaur fossils, including the famous “Dippy” the Diplodocus.

    • Earth and Life: Explore the natural world through interactive exhibits and real-life specimens.

  • Earth Galleries:

  • Free Admission: The Natural History Museum is free to enter for all visitors.

  • Special Exhibitions: Special exhibitions are often ticketed, but they explore fascinating topics in depth.

  • Food & Drink:

  • Dining at the Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious meal and stunning views of the museum’s collections.

  • Nearby cafes: The museum has several nearby cafes for a quick bite or a sit-down meal.

  • Gift Shop:

  • Find unique gifts, souvenirs, books and educational materials inspired by the museum’s collections.

Enjoy your visit!