Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in London is one of the city’s most impressive and beloved attractions. Located in South Kensington, the museum is known not only for its world-class exhibits but also for its breathtaking Victorian architecture. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse and completed in 1881, the building features grand Romanesque arches, intricate terracotta carvings, and a cathedral-like central hall—making it worth a visit even before you step inside.

The museum’s collection is massive—containing more than 80 million specimens—and far too vast to fully explore in a single day. To help visitors navigate, the museum is divided into four color-coded zones, each themed around a major branch of natural history:

• Red Zone – Explore Earth’s geology, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and a giant rotating globe. This section also covers the formation and evolution of the planet.
• Green Zone – Focuses on fossils, birds, minerals, and creepy crawlies. You’ll also find exhibits about the evolution of life on Earth here.
• Blue Zone – Home to dinosaurs, mammals, and human biology. Highlights include the iconic animatronic T. rex and a life-sized model of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling.
• Orange Zone – Features the Darwin Centre, where you can see real scientists at work, and the Wildlife Garden, a peaceful outdoor space showcasing British biodiversity.

Admission to the museum is completely free, making it one of the best budget-friendly things to do in London. It’s also one of the city’s most family-friendly museums, with plenty of interactive displays, touchable exhibits, and multimedia experiences designed to keep kids engaged. From digital games to hands-on fossil digs, there's something for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're fascinated by the natural world, traveling with kids, or just looking for a rainy-day activity in London, the Natural History Museum offers an educational and inspiring experience that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.