Natural History Museum
"The Natural History Museum houses 80 million specimens spanning billions of years of natural history, from dinosaur skeletons to the famous blue whale hanging in the main hall. The Romanesque building is a Victorian cathedral of science with terracotta facades and soaring arches. Entry is free. The dinosaur gallery and earthquake simulator are highlights."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Majestic, educational
Duration
2-3 hours
Best For
Families
The Backstory
Opened in 1881, designed by Alfred Waterhouse in Romanesque Revival style. The building was conceived as a 'cathedral to nature.' The museum split from the British Museum in 1963. The blue whale model (1938) is 82 feet long. Charles Darwin's specimens are in the collections.
Local Secret
"Arrive at opening (10am) to avoid school groups who dominate by 11am. The dinosaur gallery gets crushingly crowded—go first or skip it. The Earth galleries (Red Zone) and whale hall are underrated and quieter. Entry is free but special exhibitions require tickets."