The London Science Museum

The London Science Museum

Be inspired with fascinating stories and interactive exhibitions

By South Western Railway 12 min read
In this article, you'll learn the following:
From awe-inspiring interactive exhibits to bona fide pieces of history, the Science Museum is a place like no other. Covering everything from energy generation to modern medicine and space exploration, this London attraction has something to spark imaginations young and old. 

The history of the Science Museum is as fascinating as the exhibits themselves. Along with its neighbouring Victoria and Albert Museum , the museum was born out of artefacts collated for the 1851 Great Exhibition, and its extensive network of galleries and spaces have grown from decade to decade. Today, it’s one of the biggest and best loved museums in the country, visited by millions of people each year.  

Ready to have your eyes opened and curiosity ignited? Here’s everything you need to know for a successful trip to London’s Science Museum. 
Adult and child at a Science Museum exhibition

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Where is the London Science Museum?

The Science Museum’s location is in the South Kensington area in the Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The Science Museum address is: Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD.

 

How do I get to the Science Museum?

Part of the Exhibition Road Museum Quarter, the Science Museum is central within the city – so we recommend travelling there by train. South Western Railway’s network can get you into London itself, with your onward journey being no hassle at all. 

You can soon reach the Science Museum from Clapham Junction , Vauxhall, and Waterloo stations. 

From London Waterloo, ride the Underground northbound on the Jubilee line. Hop off at Westminster and make the switch for any westbound District or Circle line train. After three stops, you’ll get off at South Kensington and find the museum is just a few hundred metres’ walk away. 

Those travelling from Vauxhall should head for the Underground and go northbound on the Victoria line. Switch at Victoria Station a short while later, then climb onboard any westbound District or Circle line service. End your journey at South Kensington and walk for a few minutes until you reach the museum. 

If you’re arriving into Clapham Junction, your best option is to get to the Science Museum by bus, unless you’re up for the 55-minute walk. Find Stop E on Falcon Road just outside the station. Hop on the 345 bus and ride for around 26 minutes, getting off at Stop H Natural History Museum/Cromwell Road. The museum door’s then a mere 200 metres away.

Travelling by train

Driving into London has its challenges, not least Congestion Charges, traffic and parking. That’s why it’s so often less hassle to catch the train. And if you live close to hubs like Bournemouth, Southampton Central and Portsmouth, South Western Railway services can get you into the city direct. 

There are a range of ticket types that can be tailored to your travel plans. Cheaper train tickets are available when you travel off-peak, with a Railcard or as a group. That’s thanks to GroupSave, which provides discounts to families and friends just for making the journey together. 

Travelling within London


It's not just the South West region that can make the most of our rail services. If you live in outer areas of London like Surbiton, Wimbledon and Richmond, South Western Railway is your fast and direct route into the city. And when you use a London Travelcard, Oyster card or contactless, you can stay on the move seamlessly. 
 

Things to do at London Science Museum


London’s Science Museum has something for everyone, whether you’re a budding young astronaut or have always wondered how our home appliances came to be. Here are some of the top things to do.

London Science Museum permanent collections


London’s Science Museum is one of five museums that make up the Science Museum Group. Together, they collect, collate and display the United Kingdom’s scientific artefacts of national and international importance. 

This spectacular London attraction leaves no stone unturned, charting how our history of discovery and innovation has shaped human life today. From the machines of the industrial revolution to the wonder of modern medicine, you’re sure to come away inspired. 

Among the most popular permanent exhibits is The Energy Hall. Here you’ll find real steam engines and turbines that powered Britain’s transformation in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Then there’s the Information Age gallery, a deep dive into the history of computer science. Meanwhile, Exploring Space tells the tale of man’s journey into our universe beyond Earth. 

London Science Museum exhibits 


With thousands of artefacts in its own collection, not to mention those shared from around the world, the museum is always scheduling temporary exhibitions. These almost always require a separate ticket for entry and there may sometimes be a fee.

The museum’s temporary events have been lauded among the best exhibitions in London. In recent years, they’ve covered topics such as the life of Alan Turing, medical treatment in the First World War, and cyber security. Check what’s on before you visit and see if anything catches your eye. 

London Science Museum tickets


Like all national museums in the UK, entry to London Science Museum is free. However, a ticketing system is used to manage crowds, and you’ll need to reserve yours in advance of your trip. 

Tickets can be booked through the website, where you’ll need to select your date and time slot for arrival. You can reserve tickets for up to 10 adults and 10 children at a time, though there’s a separate booking process for larger parties and schools.  

If you love affordable days out, why not consider a National Art Pass? These offer cost-free access to hundreds more museums, galleries and historic houses right around the UK. There’s even as much as 50% off any temporary exhibitions. 

Events


In addition to the temporary exhibitions, you can add to your Science Museum experience by attending a special events. Taking place all year round, there’s plenty of things to watch at the museum’s dedicated IMAX cinema. Keep an eye on the schedules for late openings, one-off talks and more. 

Tours


Want a walk around the museum with those who know it best? Then you’re in luck. The Science Museum runs daily tours tailored to one of its many galleries at a time, each hosted by a cast of friendly, diverse and curious volunteers. Tours are free to attend and you won’t need to book, though times do vary and there are only around 15 places per tour. 

London Science Museum Shop


Looking for something to remember your visit by? Then call in at London Science Museum’s shop. It’s here you’ll find all sorts of amazing curiosities and fascinating items, from books to continue the learning with to jewellery, stationary, kids games and more. The shop is located on the ground floor on the right side of the main entrance. 

Tips for enjoying the London Science Museum


Enjoy a trouble-free trip to the museum with these simple tips:

• The Science Museum opening times are 10:00 – 18:00 each day, with final entry at 17:15. Some of the permanent galleries may be closed on certain days throughout the year. Check before your visit to avoid disappointment. 
• The Science Museum entrance is located on Exhibition Road. Bag searches may be in operation. 
• There is a cloakroom and self-service lockers available, though nothing bigger than carry-on luggage size can be stored. 

Things to do near the London Science Museum

While the Science Museum boasts some of the very best exhibitions in London, it’s  certainly got competition. The Victoria and Albert Museum and Natural History Museum are both right next door, part of the Exhibition Road Museum Quarter, with the spectacular Albert Hall towards the top end of the road. Even if you aren’t catching a show while you’re in town, the building’s architecture is worth a visit alone. 

Heading a little further north, why not enjoy the vast expanse of Hyde Park? It’s one of London’s best and interesting green spaces, with no end of activities to try. Hire bikes and follow the scenic trails, take a rowing boat out on The Serpentine Lake, and have a dip in the Serpentine Lido. Meanwhile, the park’s trail of statues, monuments and memorials is among the best free things to do in London. 

Food and drinks

There’s plenty to pack in when exploring the Science Museum, and before long, you’ll work up an appetite. The good news is that you’re well served by a selection of café spaces across the site. 

A favourite among visitors is the Energy Café, where you can find both hold and cold lunch staples as well as treats like cakes and pastries, or even a spot of Science Museum afternoon tea. You can also pre-book a lunch bag here when buying your tickets online. For some real delights, head to Shake Bar with its made-to-order milkshakes and ice cream tubs. Other options include The Diner for fresh salads and sandwiches, as well as the Gallery Café with its all veggie and vegan menu. 

If you’d prefer something off-site, Tombo Japanese Café is great for a light lunch, while a little further down Exhibition Road is Honest Burgers – so often a hit with families. If you plan on going all out for dinner, don’t miss Hawksmoor or  Claude Bosi. 

Places to stay near the London Science Museum

With so many incredible attractions across the capital, it’s worth making a weekend of your trip to the Science Museum. Whether you’re planning an action packed 48 hours in London or an even longer stay, you’ve plenty of accommodation options nearby. 

Best Western The Boltons London Kensington is an ideal compromise between cost and comfort. Especially given you could save 10% on your stay through SWR Rewards. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll find excellent prices at hotels like Copthorne Tara London Kensington and Holiday Inn London Kensington High Street. The nearby Knightsbridge Hotel is worth every one of its five stars if you fancy a treat, as is The Milestone Hotel & Residences where more SWR Rewards discounts can be enjoyed.

London Science Museum accessibility 

The London Science Museum is committed to being open and accessible to everyone. As such, a small number of accessible parking spaces are available on Exhibition Road, though these are run by the local council and cannot be reserved. Almost all lifts in the museum are wheelchair accessible and feature braille labelling and audio announcements. There are accessible toilets and changing facilities on all levels of the museum, while working guide and assistance animals are always welcome. 

For more information, see the museum’s accessibility page. 





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