Science Museum, London
Explore the wonders of science and technology at London’s iconic, interactive Science Museum in South Kensington.
Located on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the Science Museum in London is a world-leading institution dedicated to the wonders of science, technology, and medicine. With free general admission, it offers interactive galleries, iconic objects like Stephenson's Rocket and the Apollo 10 command module, and engaging exhibitions suitable for all ages. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, it provides a rich, hands-on experience that inspires curiosity and learning.
A brief summary to Science Museum
- Exhibition Rd, London, South Kensington, SW7 2DD, GB
- +443300580058
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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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 your free general admission tickets online to secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues.
- Allow 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the museum’s interactive galleries, exhibitions, and IMAX cinema.
- Use the lockers on Level -1 for storing coats and bags; payment is by card only.
- Visit Wonderlab early for hands-on science shows and demonstrations that are popular with all ages.
- Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events that may require separate tickets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to South Kensington station, served by the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines. The museum is a 5-minute walk from the station via an underground walkway. Typical journey times from central London range from 15 to 30 minutes. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £5 depending on your travelcard or Oyster card use.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near the museum, including routes 9, 10, 52, 452, and 70. Bus travel times vary but typically range from 20 to 40 minutes from central London. Pay with contactless or Oyster card; fares are around £1.75 per trip.
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Car
If driving, nearby car parks are available on Prince Consort Road and Queen's Gate. Parking fees typically range from £5 to £15 per hour. Note that central London congestion charges may apply. Expect moderate traffic and limited parking availability during peak hours.
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Walking
From nearby museums or South Kensington station, walking to the Science Museum takes about 5 to 10 minutes on mostly flat, paved paths. The area is pedestrian-friendly and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Science Museum 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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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Science Museum
Foundations and Legacy of the Science Museum
The Science Museum in London traces its origins to the Great Exhibition of 1851, a landmark event that brought global attention and wealth to the South Kensington area. Inspired by Prince Albert's vision to use this legacy for educational advancement, the museum was established as a center to showcase scientific achievements and foster public understanding. Over the decades, it has grown into a vast repository of over 300,000 objects, though only a fraction are on display due to space limits, preserving a rich heritage of innovation and discovery.Exhibits and Iconic Collections
Spanning seven levels, the museum hosts a diverse array of exhibits that span the history and future of science. Highlights include Stephenson's Rocket, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, Puffing Billy, the world's first jet engine, and a reconstruction of Crick and Watson's DNA model. The Exploring Space galleries feature real spacecraft such as the Soyuz TMA-19M descent module and a three-metre-high telescope used in British space missions. The Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries rank among the largest medical collections globally, reflecting the museum’s deep ties to medical history.Interactive and Educational Experiences
The Science Museum is renowned for its engaging, hands-on approach to learning. Wonderlab offers spectacular interactive science shows and demonstrations that captivate all ages, while the Launchpad gallery invites children to explore basic scientific principles through play. The Power Up gallery celebrates the history of video games with immersive gaming experiences. Additionally, the museum features a state-of-the-art IMAX 3D cinema that brings nature and science documentaries to life on a giant screen.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Visitors benefit from modern amenities including lockers for personal items, accessible facilities, and a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and offers support for visitors with mobility needs. Its central location near South Kensington and Gloucester Road tube stations makes it easily reachable by public transport. Nearby car parks and bike racks further facilitate access.Events, Programs, and Community Engagement
The Science Museum hosts a variety of special events such as adults-only evening sessions, family sleepovers called Astronights, and monthly lectures by experts. Educational groups are supported with tailored resources and supervised visits. The museum also runs sustainability-themed exhibitions and community projects that invite visitors to engage with pressing global challenges through science.Continuing Innovation and Future Outlook
Constantly evolving, the Science Museum embraces new scientific developments and technologies. It regularly updates its exhibitions to reflect the rapid pace of change in science, technology, and medicine. The museum’s commitment to inspiring curiosity and educating the public ensures it remains a dynamic hub for discovery and innovation in the heart of London.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
- Educational
- Interactive
- Family Friendly
- Lively
- Scenic
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
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
