If you’re a lover of natural history, London is the place to be. With a plethora of museums to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit. In this article, we’ll explore the top natural history museums in London and help you decide which one is the best for you.
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is undoubtedly the most famous museum of all. It’s located in South Kensington and is home to over 80 million specimens.
From dinosaurs to blue whales, this museum has it all. The iconic building itself is a sight to behold with its Romanesque architecture and intricate carvings. The museum’s most popular exhibit is undoubtedly the life-sized T-Rex skeleton that greets visitors as they enter.
What makes it stand out?
Apart from its impressive collection, the Natural History Museum also boasts several interactive exhibits that make learning about natural history fun for visitors of all ages.
The Darwin Centre Cocoon gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how scientists preserve and study specimens. There’s also an earthquake simulator that lets visitors experience what it’s like during an earthquake.
The Grant Museum of Zoology
If you’re looking for something a little more niche, the Grant Museum of Zoology might just be perfect for you. Located in Bloomsbury, this museum houses over 68,000 specimens ranging from extinct animals like the dodo bird to bizarre creatures like the platypus.
What makes it stand out?
The Grant Museum prides itself on being an academic teaching museum and offers several workshops and events for students interested in studying zoology. Additionally, many of the specimens on display are rare or extinct animals that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Horniman Museum and Gardens
Located in Forest Hill, the Horniman Museum and Gardens is a lesser-known gem that’s definitely worth a visit. Founded by tea trader and avid collector Frederick Horniman, this museum has been open to the public since 1901.
What makes it stand out?
Apart from its impressive collection of natural history specimens, the Horniman Museum also has several anthropological exhibits that explore different cultures from around the world. The museum’s gardens are also a highlight with over 16 acres of landscaped greenery to explore.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London has no shortage of amazing natural history museums. Whether you’re interested in dinosaurs or exotic animals, there’s something for everyone. The Natural History Museum is perhaps the most popular and well-known but don’t overlook the Grant Museum or the Horniman Museum for a more unique experience.