Natural History Museum, London
Step into a world of natural wonders at London’s Natural History Museum, where dinosaurs, a giant blue whale, and 80 million specimens tell Earth’s epic story.
Step into a world of natural wonders at London’s Natural History Museum, where colossal dinosaurs, a suspended blue whale, and 80 million specimens tell the story of life on Earth. Housed in a magnificent Victorian building in South Kensington, this free-entry museum blends science, history, and stunning architecture. Explore themed galleries, from deep time and human evolution to minerals and wildlife, then relax in the reimagined gardens, a green oasis alive with plants and creatures from across the ages. A must-visit for families, curious minds, and anyone who loves the natural world.
A brief summary to Natural History Museum
- Cromwell Rd, London, South Kensington, SW7 5BD, GB
- +442079425000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:50 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:50 pm
Local tips
- Book a free timed-entry ticket online in advance, especially on weekends or during school holidays, to skip long queues and guarantee entry.
- Start in Hintze Hall and use the museum’s colour-coded zones to plan your route based on your interests, whether dinosaurs, minerals, human evolution or wildlife.
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and school groups, and allow at least 3–4 hours to see the main highlights.
- Don’t miss the reimagined gardens behind the museum, where a bronze Diplodocus roams among Jurassic plants and a peaceful wildlife garden offers a quiet escape.
- Check the museum’s website for current special exhibitions and events, which may require a separate ticket and can be a highlight of your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
Take the District, Circle or Piccadilly line to South Kensington station; the museum is about a 5-minute walk from the station exit, clearly signposted through the museum district.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the South Kensington area, including the 14, 49, 70, 74, 345 and C1; stops are within a 5–10 minute walk of the museum’s main entrance on Cromwell Road.
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Walking from central London
From Hyde Park Corner or Knightsbridge, allow 20–30 minutes on foot; the route passes through green spaces and museum-rich streets, suitable for all ages on flat pavements.
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Car
Driving is not recommended due to limited central London parking; if arriving by car, use nearby public car parks or drop-off points, then walk the final few minutes to the museum entrance.
Natural History Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Natural History Museum
A Palace of Science and Nature
Rising from the heart of South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is a grand Victorian temple to the natural world. Its terracotta façade, adorned with carvings of animals and plants, sets the tone for what lies within: one of the world’s greatest collections of natural history, spanning 4.6 billion years of Earth’s story. With over 80 million specimens, the museum is both a working research institute and a public treasure, where science and spectacle meet in dramatic galleries and intimate displays. The centrepiece is Hintze Hall, dominated by the immense skeleton of Hope, a 25-metre blue whale suspended from the ceiling. Around it, galleries unfold in a colour-coded system, guiding visitors from deep time and dinosaurs to the diversity of life, human origins, and the forces that shape our planet. The building itself is a masterpiece of 19th-century design, with soaring ceilings, ornate columns, and a sense of awe that lingers long after you leave.Icons of the Deep Past
The museum’s most famous residents are its dinosaurs. In the Dinosaurs gallery, the roar of a T. rex echoes through the space, while fossils of Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and other giants stand as silent witnesses to a vanished world. Among them is one of the first T. rex skeletons ever discovered, a relic that helped shape our understanding of these creatures. Nearby, the Fossil Marine Reptiles gallery reveals the ocean’s prehistoric rulers, from plesiosaurs to ichthyosaurs, their bones preserved in exquisite detail. Beyond the dinosaurs, the museum holds countless other highlights: the skull of a lion that once lived in the Tower of London, the remains of extinct species like the great auk, and John James Audubon’s exquisite bird prints. The Minerals gallery dazzles with more than 12,600 gems and crystals, while the Birds gallery showcases everything from a dodo to a Victorian hummingbird cabinet, a testament to centuries of exploration and collection.Life, Evolution and the Modern World
The museum’s story extends from the distant past to the present and future. In the Human Evolution gallery, a lifelike Neanderthal model, created by Dutch twin artists, brings 40,000-year-old evidence to life, prompting reflection on what it means to be human. The Red and Green zones explore the incredible variety of life, from insects and arthropods to mammals and marine invertebrates, while the Darwin Centre offers a glimpse into modern scientific work, including the museum’s vast collections and ongoing research. Temporary exhibitions, such as the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year and immersive experiences like the Visions of Nature mixed-reality journey, connect the museum’s historic collections to contemporary issues like biodiversity, climate change, and conservation. These displays encourage visitors to think not just about the past, but about the future of the planet and humanity’s role in shaping it.A Garden of Life Through Time
Outside, the museum’s newly reimagined gardens offer a living extension of its story. The Evolution Garden traces the history of life on Earth, from the age of dinosaurs to the present, with plants that would have grown alongside prehistoric creatures. A full-size bronze Diplodocus, affectionately known as Fern, strides through the Jurassic and Cretaceous planting, while ponds and downland habitats support modern wildlife like toads, newts, damselflies, and even foxes. The Nature Discovery Garden, designed to support urban biodiversity, invites quiet exploration and connection with nature. With no artificial lighting to protect nocturnal creatures, it closes earlier in the day, but remains a peaceful retreat in the heart of London. Together, the gardens transform the museum’s grounds into a haven for both people and wildlife, where the story of life continues to unfold in real time.Planning Your Visit
Entry to the Natural History Museum is free, though some special exhibitions and events require a paid ticket. During busy periods, timed-entry tickets are recommended to guarantee entry and avoid long queues, especially on weekends and school holidays. The museum is open daily, with late-night openings on the last Friday of each month, making it easy to fit into any London itinerary. With more than 20 galleries and spaces, a visit can easily last half a day or more. Families will appreciate the interactive exhibits, dinosaur-themed activities, and the chance to see some of the most iconic natural history specimens in the world. Whether you’re drawn by dinosaurs, whales, minerals, or the beauty of the building itself, the Natural History Museum offers a rich, immersive experience that inspires wonder in visitors of all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
37 Thurloe St
0.3 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Empire House
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
142 Cromwell Rd
0.8 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
1.2 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Kensington War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.3 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Speke Monument
1.4 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
The Old Police House
1.5 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.5 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Cheyne Walk
1.6 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Brompton Cemetery
1.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Brompton Cemetery, a Victorian landmark in London offering a unique retreat.
Albert Bridge
1.7 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.8 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Statue of Achilles
1.9 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Science Museum
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
Queen's Tower
0.2 km
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Victoria and Albert Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of art, design, and fashion at London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum, where creativity meets history in a stunning Victorian setting.
Imperial Cinema
0.4 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
St Augustine's Church
0.4 km
Discover the striking Gothic Revival beauty and rich Anglo-Catholic heritage of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a William Butterfield masterpiece.
Sussex Mansions
0.4 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
Thin House
0.4 km
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
Royal Albert Hall
0.5 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
HTB Onslow Square
0.6 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
The Albert Memorial
0.6 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
The Hole in the Wall
0.6 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
Barts
0.8 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
Knightsbridge
0.9 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Serpentine Gallery
0.9 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
St Luke's & Christ Church
0.9 km
Discover St Luke's & Christ Church, Chelsea — a historic Gothic Revival Anglican parish blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community spirit.
Essential places to dine
Town House Kensington
0.5 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Grato
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
1.1 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Rabbit
1.1 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Dishoom Kensington
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.2 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
The Jam
1.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.3 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.4 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
The Grenadier
1.6 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Il Portico
1.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.1 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Science Museum Shop
0.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
V&A Shop
0.3 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Urban Outfitters
1.1 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Jigsaw
1.1 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.2 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.2 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Good
1.3 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.5 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
the Design Museum Shop
1.7 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.7 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
1.7 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
The London Shop
1.9 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Notting hill store
2.0 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
2.0 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 190
0.5 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
K Bar
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
0.5 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Builders Arms
0.9 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Stables Bar
0.9 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
1.0 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.1 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.2 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.2 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.7 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.9 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
2.0 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Dickens Tavern
2.1 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dolce Night Club , London
0.3 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
0.4 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
B London
0.5 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.9 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Ricco London
2.4 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.6 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.7 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Globe
2.8 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
2.8 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Carwash Nightclub
2.9 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Electric House
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Scotch of St James
3.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
3.0 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Subteranian
3.3 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
