Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, Cambridge
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history in Cambridge’s oldest geology museum, featuring fossils, meteorites, and iconic collections.
The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, part of the University of Cambridge, is the oldest geology museum in the university consortium. Located on Downing Street, it houses over 2 million fossils, rocks, and minerals spanning 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history. Visitors explore extensive collections including meteorites, fossils, and geological specimens in a historic building with original display cases. Admission is free, open weekdays and Saturdays, with accessible facilities and engaging exhibits for all ages.
A brief summary to Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
- University Of, Downing Pl, Cambridge, CB2 3EQ, GB
- +441223333456
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and full access to all galleries.
- Take advantage of free admission and explore the Darwin-related exhibits.
- Use the accessible entrance via the Department of Earth Sciences with staff assistance.
- Combine your visit with nearby University of Cambridge museums for a full cultural day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Park and Ride buses that stop near the museum; the closest bus stop is a 5-minute walk away. From Cambridge railway station, it is a 20-minute walk to the museum. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 depending on the route.
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Car
Visitors driving can use the Grand Arcade car park, located nearby with blue badge spaces for accessible parking. Parking fees vary but expect approximately £2-£4 per hour. The car park is accessible via Corn Exchange Street and Downing Street.
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Walking
The museum is centrally located in Cambridge and easily reached on foot from most city center locations. Walking routes are flat and accessible, taking approximately 10-20 minutes from key points like the railway station or city center.
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Cycling
Cycle racks are available outside the museum for visitors who prefer to bike. Cambridge is very cycle-friendly, and bike hire options are widely available throughout the city.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
A Journey Through Geological Time
The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences offers a captivating walk through 4.5 billion years of Earth's history. As the oldest museum within the University of Cambridge’s network, it presents an extraordinary collection of over 2 million geological specimens. These include meteorites, minerals, and fossils that document the evolution of life from ancient oceans to terrestrial ecosystems. Among its treasures are the Beagle Collection, featuring rocks and fossils collected by Charles Darwin during his voyage, and extensive sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rock collections.Historic Foundations and Architecture
Founded in 1728 as the Woodwardian Museum, the Sedgwick Museum’s current building opened in 1904 after a significant public fundraising campaign. The museum retains many of its original walnut display cabinets from the early collections, which add a sense of heritage and authenticity to the visitor experience. The architecture reflects early 20th-century design, providing a dignified setting for the vast scientific collections. The museum also includes a geological conservation laboratory named after a long-serving curator, emphasizing its role in research and preservation.Scientific Significance and Educational Role
The museum is integral to the University of Cambridge’s Department of Earth Sciences, supporting teaching and research. Its collections serve as a national treasure and a resource for scientists worldwide. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events that engage the public and families, fostering wider interest in Earth sciences. It also holds archives containing historical field notebooks and documents from prominent geologists, enriching the narrative of geological discovery.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Free to enter, the Sedgwick Museum welcomes visitors Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturdays until 4pm, closed Sundays. The museum provides step-free access via a lift and platform lifts between gallery levels, with staff assistance available. Seating is ample, and the museum is equipped with facilities for visitors with visual and hearing impairments, including induction loops and guided tours. Assistance dogs are welcome, and nearby accessible parking is available.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Cambridge’s historic Downing Street, the museum is easily accessible on foot, by bicycle, or public transport. Cycle racks are available outside, and Park and Ride buses stop nearby. The Grand Arcade car park offers accessible parking for visitors with mobility needs. The museum sits among other university museums and cultural sites, making it a key destination within Cambridge’s rich academic and historic landscape.Collections That Inspire Curiosity
Visitors can marvel at the diversity of specimens, from beautifully preserved fossils and gemstones to meteorites that reveal the origins of planets. The dinosaur displays, including an Iguanodon skeleton, are highlights that appeal to all ages. The museum’s atmosphere combines scientific rigor with the charm of historic display, inviting exploration and discovery in a compact yet rich setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Visits
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
