How to Plan Your Natural History Museum Tour in London

If you’re visiting London, taking a tour of the Natural History Museum is a must. With more than 80 million specimens on display, from dinosaurs to butterflies, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your Natural History Museum tour.

Overview of the Natural History Museum Tour

The Natural History Museum is located in South Kensington in London. The tour is led by a professional art historian guide who will take you through the museum’s collections, highlighting some of the most interesting exhibits. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

See Iguanodon teeth fossils

Be in awe at the Pompeii casts

Get close to a Dodo skeleton

See a first edition of On the Origin of Species

During the tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the history of the museum and its collections. The tour is available in both private and semi-private options, making it a great choice for families, groups of friends, or couples.

Booking your Natural History Museum Tour

To book your tour, you can use the following link: book the tour here. The tour includes a professional art historian guide, but does not include gratuities, hotel pick-up and drop off, food and drinks, or temporary exhibits.

Getting to the Natural History Museum Tour

The Natural History Museum is located in South Kensington, which is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest tube station is South Kensington on the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines. You can also take buses 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430, and C1 to the museum.

What to Expect During the Natural History Museum Tour

During the tour, you’ll be taken through the Natural History Museum’s labyrinth of galleries, which includes collections on botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology, and zoology. You’ll also learn about the museum’s history and how it has evolved over the years.

Some of the highlights of the tour include seeing the Iguanodon teeth fossils, being in awe at the Pompeii casts, getting close to a Dodo skeleton, and seeing a first edition of On the Origin of Species. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the world-famous Blue Whale skeleton, which is one of the museum’s most popular exhibits.

The art historian guide will provide you with insights into the museum’s collections and answer any questions you may have about the exhibits. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which gives you enough time to explore the museum at a leisurely pace.

What Not to Bring on the Natural History Museum Tour

The Natural History Museum is a public place, so there are certain items that are not allowed inside. Some of these prohibited items include:

• Weapons
• Illegal drugs
• Alcohol
• Food and drink (except bottled water)
• Large bags or backpacks

There is a cloakroom in the museum where you can store your bags and other belongings if necessary.

Accessibility Information

The Natural History Museum is not fully accessible to wheelchair users due to its historic building design. However, there is wheelchair access to some areas of the museum, including the ground floor and some galleries. The museum also offers audio-described tours and tactile exhibits for blind and visually impaired visitors.

Conclusion

The Natural History Museum is an amazing place to visit, and taking a guided tour with a professional art historian guide is a great way to explore its collections. With this guide, you should now have all the information you need to plan your Natural History Museum tour in London. Don’t forget to book your tour using the link provided above and enjoy your visit to one of London’s most popular museums!

Most Frequently Asked Questions About London

London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With a rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. But before you plan your trip, you probably have a few questions. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about London.

What is the best time of year to visit London?

The best time of year to visit London largely depends on your preferences. Summer is the most popular time, with warmer weather and longer days, but it can also be crowded and expensive. Spring and fall are typically less busy, and the weather is still mild. Winter can be chilly, but you’ll find fewer tourists and cheaper prices.

What are the must-see attractions in London?

There are so many must-see attractions in London that it can be overwhelming. Some of the top landmarks include:

• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• The Tower of London
• Buckingham Palace
• The British Museum
• The Tate Modern
• The London Eye
• The Shard

How can I save money while visiting London?

London can be an expensive city, but there are ways to save money. Here are some tips:

• Use public transportation instead of taxis
• Buy a London Pass for discounted entry to multiple attractions
• Visit free museums and galleries like the British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern
• Eat at street vendors and markets instead of restaurants
• Book accommodations outside of central London

What is the weather like in London?

London has a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average high in the summer months is around 23°C (73°F) and the average low in the winter months is around 2°C (35°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella.

What is the transportation system like in London?

London has an extensive public transportation system, including the Tube (subway), buses, trains, and taxis. The Tube is the most popular way to get around, with several lines covering most of the city. It’s also one of the cheapest options if you buy a pay-as-you-go Oyster card. Buses are also affordable and offer a good way to see the city from above ground.

Is London safe for tourists?

Like any major city, there is crime in London, but it’s generally safe for tourists. Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded tourist areas, so keep your valuables secure. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less busy areas.

What is the currency used in London?

The currency used in London (and across the United Kingdom) is the British pound (GBP). You can exchange currency at banks, post offices, and currency exchange desks, but be aware that exchange rates may vary. ATMs are also widely available and often offer the best exchange rates.

What is the food like in London?

London has a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional British pub food to international cuisine. Some popular dishes to try include fish and chips, Sunday roast, pie and mash, and Indian curry. There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available, as well as street food markets offering a variety of cuisines.

What should I pack for my trip to London?

What you should pack for London largely depends on the time of year you’re visiting. In general, it’s a good idea to pack layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there’s a lot of walking involved in exploring the city. And don’t forget your umbrella and waterproof jacket, as rain is common throughout the year.

How do I get from the airport to central London?

London has several airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City. The easiest way to get from the airport to central London is by taking the train or the Tube. Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted all have express train services that take you directly into central London. London City and Luton have train services as well, but you may need to transfer to the Tube or bus to reach your destination.

Conclusion

London is a vibrant city with plenty to offer tourists, but it can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Hopefully, this post has answered some of your most pressing questions and given you a better idea of what to expect during your trip. Remember to plan ahead, stay aware of your surroundings, and enjoy all that this exciting city has to offer.