Science Museum, London
Explore centuries of scientific breakthroughs and interactive wonders at London’s iconic Science Museum in South Kensington.
Located on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the Science Museum in London is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history and impact of science, technology, and industry. Open daily from 10am to 6pm with free admission (pre-booking required), it features interactive galleries such as Wonderlab, Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries, and Making the Modern World. The museum offers immersive experiences for all ages, including live science shows, an IMAX cinema, and special exhibitions.
A brief summary to Science Museum
- Exhibition Rd, London, South Kensington, SW7 2DD, GB
- +443300580058
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book free admission tickets online to ensure entry and avoid queues.
- Arrive early to enjoy popular interactive exhibits like Wonderlab with fewer crowds.
- Visit the Clock Gallery around noon to hear the unique chiming of historic clocks.
- Check the museum’s schedule for special events such as adult-only late openings and seasonal activities.
- The Garden is a free sensory play area ideal for children under five.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Piccadilly, Circle, or District lines to South Kensington station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the museum. Trains run frequently every 2-5 minutes during the day. Note that the station has step-free access from street to platform.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Exhibition Road, including routes 14, 49, 70, and 74. Buses run every 10-20 minutes depending on the route. Bus stops are within a short walking distance to the museum entrance.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly outside the museum on Exhibition Road. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London. Note that parking is limited and paid parking nearby can be expensive.
-
Walking from Nearby Museums
The Science Museum is within a 5-minute walk from the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one day along a flat, accessible route.
Science Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Low-Visibility Conditions
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Science Museum
A Legacy of Scientific Discovery and Innovation
The Science Museum in London stands as a monument to human ingenuity and scientific progress. Founded in the Victorian era, it has grown into one of the world’s leading museums dedicated to science, technology, and industry. Its vast collection spans from the dawn of the industrial revolution to cutting-edge modern technology, showcasing iconic artifacts such as the Apollo 10 command module and Crick and Watson’s DNA model. The museum’s location in South Kensington places it among other cultural landmarks, making it a key part of London’s rich educational landscape.Immersive and Interactive Exhibitions for All Ages
Visitors can explore a diverse range of themed galleries that bring science to life. Wonderlab offers a spectacular interactive experience with live science shows and hands-on experiments that captivate children and adults alike. The Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries present the history and future of medical science through engaging displays. Making the Modern World highlights transformative inventions that shaped society, including steam engines, rocket engines, and early computers. For younger children, The Garden provides a sensory play area designed to introduce science through play.Special Experiences and Events
The museum hosts a variety of special events, including monthly adult-only late openings where visitors can enjoy the galleries in a relaxed atmosphere, and seasonal events such as Christmas Late Openings featuring festive shows and shopping. The IMAX: The Ronson Theatre offers breathtaking 3D documentaries on a giant screen, while Power Up invites visitors to explore 50 years of gaming history through interactive exhibits. Educational programs and workshops further enrich the visitor experience.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Science Museum is fully accessible, with lifts to all floors and accessible toilets. It provides facilities such as restrooms, seating areas, picnic spots, and a well-stocked gift shop offering science-themed merchandise. Visitors are encouraged to pre-book free admission tickets online to manage capacity. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with last entry at 17:15, and closes only on December 24-26. Its central location is convenient for exploring nearby museums and cultural sites.Engaging Educational Opportunities
The museum serves as a hub for learning, offering school sessions, group visits, and trails to guide exploration. It supports STEM education through interactive galleries and career-focused exhibits like Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery. The museum’s commitment to inspiring curiosity and understanding makes it a vital resource for families, students, and science enthusiasts.A Living Museum of Science and Society
Beyond static displays, the Science Museum continually evolves with new exhibitions and galleries, reflecting ongoing scientific advancements and societal challenges. Its exhibitions on topics like food sustainability and cancer research connect science with everyday life. The museum’s blend of historic artifacts and contemporary issues invites visitors to appreciate science’s role in shaping the past, present, and future.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.
Kensington War Memorial
1.1 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
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.
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
1.3 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
1.4 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
1.7 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Belgrave Square
1.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Belgrave Square, a historic gem in London, surrounded by elegant architecture and lush gardens.
Royal Hospital Chelsea
1.7 km
Explore the Royal Hospital Chelsea, a historic home for veterans, where architecture meets rich British military heritage in the heart of London.
Brompton Cemetery
1.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Brompton Cemetery, a Victorian landmark in London offering a unique retreat.
Sussex Gardens
1.8 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Natural History Museum
0.1 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
Queen's Tower
0.1 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
0.3 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Royal Albert Hall
0.4 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
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
0.5 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
Thin House
0.5 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.
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.
HTB Onslow Square
0.6 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
The Hole in the Wall
0.7 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.
Serpentine Gallery
0.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Knightsbridge
0.9 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
0.9 km
A serene, interactive water memorial in Hyde Park honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy through innovative design and tranquil reflection.
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
1.0 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
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
1.1 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.
Rabbit
1.2 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
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.
The Jam
1.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
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.
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
1.1 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
1.6 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
1.8 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Notting hill store
1.9 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
2.1 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
0.4 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
0.6 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
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.1 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
1.1 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.3 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
0.4 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
1.7 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.8 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.
The Globe
2.7 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
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 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.
Electric House
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
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!
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
3.2 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
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
