Prepare to be amazed! The Science Museum is a treasure trove of interactive and educational exhibits that will ignite your curiosity and spark your imagination. From the very beginnings of technology to the marvels of space exploration, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! This article will guide you through the museum’s most popular galleries, offering insider tips to plan your visit and make the most of your time.
A World of Wonder for Little Explorers
The Science Museum welcomes the youngest of explorers with The Garden, a sensory play zone designed for children under six. This vibrant space is a haven for imaginative play, where kids can splash in water, experiment with light and sound, and build their very own creations. Don’t forget to pack a waterproof apron or a change of clothes – the water play area is a popular spot for splashing fun!
A Journey Through Time: Making the Modern World
Step into the Making the Modern World Gallery and embark on a fascinating journey through time. Witness the evolution of innovation, from the Industrial Revolution to the present day. This gallery is a visual feast, showcasing iconic locomotives, planes, cars, and other groundbreaking inventions that have shaped our world. Be transported to a world of wonder as you see the progress of humanity unfold before your eyes!
Reaching for the Stars: Exploring Space
For those with a passion for the cosmos, the Exploring Space Gallery is a must-visit. Get up close and personal with genuine rockets and satellites, including a full-size replica of the Eagle, the lunar module that carried Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to the moon. This gallery is also home to the real Soyuz module that brought astronauts Tim Peake, Yuri Malenchenko, and Tim Kopra back from the International Space Station. Prepare to be awe-inspired by the incredible feats of space exploration!
The Power of Information: Information Age Gallery
Discover how information and communication technologies have transformed our lives in the Information Age Gallery. From the humble telegraph to today’s smartphones, this gallery showcases the remarkable journey of communication. Prepare to be amazed by the ingenuity of past inventors and the incredible impact their creations have had on our world. Highlights include wireless messages sent by the sinking Titanic, the first BBC radio broadcast, and a Soviet BESM-6 supercomputer.
The Magic of Maths: Mathematics: The Winton Gallery
Unravel the mysteries of the universe! The Mathematics: The Winton Gallery is a captivating space designed by Zaha Hadid Architects that reveals the fascinating world of mathematics and its impact on everyday life. From the intricacies of nature to the complexities of technology, discover the hidden beauty and power of numbers.
Unveiling the Wonders of Medicine: Medicine Galleries
Embark on an enlightening journey through the world of medicine in the Medicine Galleries. This captivating space showcases objects from both the museum’s collections and the personal collection of Sir Henry Wellcome, a renowned pharmacist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Witness the evolution of medical technology, from the world’s first MRI machine to robotic surgery tools. Explore fascinating exhibits, including prosthetic arms, vials from COVID-19 mass vaccination campaigns, and more.
Taking Flight: The Flight Gallery
Prepare for takeoff! The Flight Gallery is a must-visit for children and adults alike. Marvel at gliders, hot-air balloons, and aircraft, including the De Havilland Gipsy Moth airplane Jason I, flown by Amy Johnson to Australia in 1930. Take to the skies with interactive flight simulators (additional charge), where you can soar with the Red Arrows, experience a low-level mission aboard a Typhoon fighter jet, or embark on a virtual-reality adventure with astronaut Tim Peake.
A Hands-On Adventure: Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery
Unleash your inner scientist! Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery offers an interactive and engaging experience for all ages. Explore scientific phenomena through hands-on exhibits where you can recreate sound waves, observe a model Earth in orbit, design your own paper airplanes, experiment with pulley systems, and test your engineering skills by building bridges. Get ready for a whirlwind of fun and discovery!
Planning Your Visit: Important Tips
General admission to the Science Museum is free, but booking online in advance is essential. For specific galleries, check if advance ticket booking is required. Be aware that some exhibits may have time restrictions – for example, visits to The Garden are limited to 20-minute slots.
There are additional charges for the IMAX, virtual-reality experiences, flight simulators, Wonderlab, and special events.
The Science Museum offers a range of amenities for a comfortable visit. A cafe and snack bar are available for refreshments. Lifts and toilets are accessible throughout, and wheelchairs are available for loan.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and exploration at the Science Museum! From the depths of The Garden to the wonders of space exploration, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your family and friends and prepare to be amazed!
