Natural History Museum

Explore the Wonders of the World: A Guide to the Natural History Museum

Introduction

The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most iconic institutions, boasting an impressive collection of over 80 million specimens. From dinosaur fossils to a giant squid, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in science, nature, and culture.

Where to Visit

The Main Building (Cromwell Road)

The main building is the largest of the five museums that make up the Natural History Museum group. It’s here that you’ll find the majority of the exhibits, including:

  • Dinosaur gallery: Home to over 300 fossils, including a giant T-Rex and a Triceratops.
  • Mammal gallery: Featuring a vast collection of taxidermied animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and polar bears.
  • Earth Galleries: Showcasing the history of our planet, with exhibits on geology, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

Other Buildings

Don’t miss the other buildings within the Natural History Museum group:

  • Treasures Gallery (Waterhouse Building): A stunning display of jewelry, artifacts, and artworks from around the world.
  • Sue, The Dinosaur (Ornithopod Gallery): Get up close to the largest T-Rex skeleton in the world!
  • The Central Hall: A grand entrance hall featuring a beautiful glass ceiling.

Where to Eat

On-site Restaurants and Cafes

The Natural History Museum offers several on-site dining options:

  • Café Bar: Serves coffee, snacks, and light meals.
  • Sue’s Café: Enjoy food and drink while surrounded by the Sue exhibit.
  • The Darwin Centre Restaurant: Offers a more formal dining experience.

Nearby Eateries

Explore the surrounding area for more dining options:

  • Waterstones’ café: A great spot for coffee and cake.
  • The V&A Cafe: Offers delicious food in a beautiful setting.
  • Soho: A short walk away, this vibrant neighborhood offers endless dining possibilities.

Where to Stay

Nearby Hotels

Stay within walking distance of the Natural History Museum:

  • DoubleTree by Hilton London - Victoria
  • Hilton London Kensington
  • The Rembrandt Hotel

Budget-friendly Options

Consider staying in nearby neighborhoods:

  • Earlsfield: A short bus ride from the museum.
  • Shepherd’s Bush: Offers a range of accommodation options.

Activities and Tips

Insider Tips

  • Get here early: Beat the crowds by arriving at opening time.
  • Download the app: Access interactive guides, audio descriptions, and more.
  • Join a tour: Guided tours offer unique insights into exhibits.

Fun Facts

  • The giant squid: The largest invertebrate on display!
  • Dino-mite!: Interactive experiences for kids (and adults!)
  • Earth Galleries: A new exhibit showcasing the natural world’s wonders.

Getting There

By Car:

  • Parking is available near the museum, but be prepared for high prices.
  • Consider parking nearby and walking in.

By Public Transport:

  • Nearest Tube: South Kensington Station (District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines).
  • Bus Routes: 52, 452, and 14 all stop near the museum.

Contact Information

Phone: +44 (0)20 7942 5000 Email: info@nhm.ac.uk Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD