The Natural History Museum in London is a world-famous museum and one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Founded in 1881, the museum is home to an extensive range of exhibits and collections that explore the world of natural history and science. From dinosaurs and wildlife to earth sciences and architecture, the museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and discovery.
History
The Natural History Museum was founded in 1881 and is located in South Kensington, London. It is part of the Natural History Museums of London, along with the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The museum was originally part of the British Museum, but it was moved to South Kensington in the late 19th century. It has since become a major tourist attraction in London and a popular destination for school trips.
Exhibits and Collections
The Natural History Museum is home to a vast array of exhibits and collections. The museum’s main galleries are dedicated to zoology, botany, mineralogy, and paleontology. There are also galleries devoted to human evolution, earth sciences, and architecture. The museum’s collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world, and it includes specimens from all over the globe.
The museum’s dinosaur galleries are particularly popular, featuring a variety of fossils and reconstructions of dinosaurs from around the world. Other highlights include the Wildlife Garden, which is home to a variety of plants and animals, and the Darwin Centre, which houses the museum’s extensive research collections.
Education and Research
The Natural History Museum is committed to education and research. The museum offers a range of educational activities for all ages, including school visits, lectures, and workshops. There are also a variety of special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
The museum also houses a number of research facilities, including the Natural History Museum Library, which is one of the largest natural history libraries in the world. The museum also has a number of research laboratories and collections, which are used by researchers from around the world.
Architecture
The Natural History Museum is one of the most iconic buildings in London. The museum was designed by Alfred Waterhouse and built in the late 19th century. The building is a mix of Gothic Revival and Romanesque Revival styles, and it features a variety of ornate details and sculptures. The museum’s interior is equally impressive, with a variety of ornate galleries and exhibits.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The Natural History Museum is a great destination for families. The museum offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including the Wildlife Garden, the Darwin Centre, and the Dinosaur Gallery. The museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as the annual Dinosaur Festival and the Wildlife Garden Summer Festival.
Things to Do
The Natural History Museum offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and exhibits, take part in educational activities, and attend special events. The museum also offers a range of tours, including the popular ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour, which takes visitors behind the scenes of the museum’s research and collections.
Admission and Tips for Tourists
Admission to the Natural History Museum is free, although there may be a charge for certain activities and events. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5.50pm, and it is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
When visiting the Natural History Museum, it is important to plan ahead. Visitors should allow plenty of time to explore the museum, and they should wear comfortable shoes as the museum is spread over several floors. It is also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the museum’s many exhibits and collections.
Practical Information
The Natural History Museum is located in South Kensington, London. The nearest underground station is South Kensington, which is served by the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines. The museum is also easily accessible by bus and by car.
The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most iconic attractions. With its extensive range of exhibits and collections, the museum is a great destination for families and visitors of all ages. From dinosaurs and wildlife to earth sciences and architecture, the museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and discovery.
