Science Museum, London
Science Museum, London
5 minutes read•Published on 02-11-2024
The Science Museum in London, found in the area of South Kensington, is one of the world's most famous museums. Since it opened in 1857, it has given its visitors the chance to see and explore scientific developments from the past 300 years. The museum offers a variety of presentations, exhibits, and events that focus on science, technology, and mathematics. This popular spot draws in millions of people each year and plays an important role in mixing education with fun.
Tickets & tours
A selection of the best tours to experience the Science Museum, London with our partner GetYourGuide. These tours offer the best experience for visitors from all around the world.
A short history
The Science Museum in London started in 1857. Prince Albert and Henry Cole, both involved in the 1851 Great Exhibition, were the founders. At first, it was part of the South Kensington Museum, along with what is now the Victoria and Albert Museum.
In 1909, the South Kensington Museum divided into two separate museums. The Science Museum took the science and engineering displays, while the Victoria and Albert Museum kept the art and design collections. The Science Museum became its own official institution in 1928.
Over time, the Science Museum grew. It introduced a new Centre for the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine in 1983. In 2000, it added the Wellcome Wing, which focuses on modern science, and an IMAX 3D Cinema. The Museum is known for its collection of more than 300,000 items. This collection includes major historical pieces, like the oldest steam locomotive that still exists and the first jet engine.
The Science Museum is a big visitor attraction in London today. While the permanent exhibitions are free to view, there may be a cost to see some of the short-term displays. The Science Museum Group, which falls under the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, manages the museum. Its mission is to inspire people with ideas that have the power to change the world.
One reason to visit
The Apollo 10 command module is one reason you might want to go to the Science Museum in London. The Science Museum is home to the Apollo 10 command module. This is the very capsule that took three astronauts close to the moon in 1969. This flight was like a practice run for the first moon landing, which happened just a few months after. When you visit the museum, you can see this important piece of history for yourself. Its remarkable to see a real object from the history of space exploration. By looking at the Apollo 10 command module, you get to understand how much we have achieved in terms of space technology. Its not only enjoyable to see the module, but its also a learning experience.
Getting there
The Science Museum in London is best accessed on foot from South Kensington station. Upon exiting the station, head west on Harrington Road for approximately 500 metres until you reach the end. Then, make a right turn onto Exhibition Road and head north. About 200 metres later, you'll find the Science Museum on your left. Consider using a GPS for flawless navigation. It's always good to have a backup in case the streets seem a little confusing.
Starting at Trafalgar Square, get on your bike and head southwest along Pall Mall/B325. When you reach the traffic lights, take a sharp right onto Marlborough Rd/A4. Continue along A4 for about 1.2 km until you reach the A3218, at which point, turn right. Follow the A3218 slightly over one kilometer until you come to the A3220 intersection. Turn left onto A3220 and continue until you reach the Old Brompton Rd/B316. Follow B316 for approximately 800 meters until you reach Exhibition Rd. Turn left onto Exhibition Rd and you will find the Science Museum, London on the right. Please note that it's important to securely lock your bike before entering the museum.
To reach the Science Museum, London, you can use a variety of public transport options. If you take the Tube, the nearest stations are South Kensington and Gloucester Road on the Piccadilly, Circle, and district lines. Both are a 5-minute walk away. If you prefer to take the bus, service 430 stops on Exhibition Road. The Westbound bus is the stop closest to the Science Museum entrance. Also, bus 9, 712, 10, 27, 28, 49, 52 and 345 stop at South Kensington station. For cyclists, there's a Barclays Cycle Hire point on Exhibition Road. Do ensure to plan your route in advance and check the latest bus and underground timings for a smooth visit.
To get to the Science Museum, London by car, start on the M4 towards London. Continue onto the A4 and then take the A3218 exit towards Earls Court. Merge onto the A3220 and then turn left onto A315. Turn right onto Queen's Gate and then left onto Exhibition Road. You will then arrive at the destination. It would help to note that there is a car park on the museum grounds, use postcode SW7 2AR for navigation. You can also park in a nearby pay and display area but do check parking restrictions. Public transportation is also a good option with bus numbers 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430 and C1 stopping near the museum. The closest Tube station is South Kensington on the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines.
