Are you planning a visit to the Natural History Museum but not sure if you have to pay an admission fee? Well, the answer is both yes and no, depending on the museum and your circumstances.
Free Admission
Firstly, let’s start with the good news. Many national museums in the UK, including the Natural History Museum in London, offer free admission to their permanent collections. This means that you can explore the museum’s extensive collection of specimens without spending a penny!
However, please note that some special exhibitions and events may require an admission fee. These are usually advertised on the museum’s website or at the entrance.
Donations Welcome
While entry to the permanent collections is free, many museums rely on donations from visitors to help fund their operations and maintain their collections. So even if you don’t have to pay an admission fee, it’s always appreciated if you can spare a few pounds or pennies as a donation.
Concessions
If you’re not eligible for free admission but still want to visit the Natural History Museum, there are several concessions available that can reduce your ticket price. For example:
- Students with valid ID
- Senior citizens aged 60 and over
- Disabled visitors (plus one accompanying person)
- Jobseekers and recipients of Income Support, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
Be sure to bring any necessary ID or documentation with you to prove your eligibility for these concessions.
Ticket Prices
For those who don’t qualify for free admission or concessions, here are the current ticket prices (as of August 2021) for visiting special exhibitions at the Natural History Museum in London:
- Adult: £22
- Child (ages 4-16): £12.50
- Concession: £18
- Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £60
Please note that prices may vary for different exhibitions and events.
Conclusion
In summary, while entry to the permanent collections at the Natural History Museum in London is free, some special exhibitions and events may require an admission fee. Donations are always welcome, and there are concessions available for certain groups of visitors. Be sure to check the museum’s website for up-to-date information on prices and events before your visit.