Science Museum
About Science Museum
A hands-on museum of science, technology and medicine on Exhibition Road, home to Stephenson's Rocket, the Apollo 10 command module and the interactive Wonderlab gallery.
History
The Science Museum traces its origins to 1857, when collections from the Great Exhibition formed part of the South Kensington Museum. The science collections were separated from the art collections, now the V&A, and became an independent museum in 1909.
Its galleries have since grown to cover everything from the earliest steam engines to space exploration and modern medicine. The museum is known for making science approachable, with the Wonderlab gallery offering live shows and dozens of interactive experiments.
What to Expect
Expect a lively mix of iconic objects and things to touch, press and try. The ground-floor Energy Hall and Exploring Space galleries are great starting points, and Wonderlab is a highlight for families. Weekday afternoons during term time are quietest, and monthly adult-only Lates bring after-hours talks and drinks.
Known For
Highlights
- Free entry
- Interactive galleries
- IMAX cinema
- Flight gallery
- Medicine galleries
- Science Museum Lates
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Science Museum free?
- Yes, general admission is free. Wonderlab, the IMAX cinema, simulators and some exhibitions are paid, and booking a free timed ticket is advised at busy times.
- Is the Science Museum good for kids?
- Yes, it is one of London's best museums for children, with interactive galleries, live science shows and a dedicated play area for younger visitors.
- What is the nearest station to the Science Museum?
- South Kensington station is around five minutes' walk away via the pedestrian subway to Exhibition Road.
More London Museums & Galleries
British Museum
The world's first national public museum, holding around eight million objects spanning two million years of human history, from the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon sculptures.
Natural History Museum
A cathedral to the natural world in a stunning Victorian building, famous for Hope the blue whale skeleton, its dinosaur gallery and around 80 million specimens.
Tate Modern
Britain's national gallery of international modern and contemporary art, housed in a former power station on the South Bank with free collection displays and its vast Turbine Hall.