London Science Museum

The basics

The five floors of exhibits at the London Science Museum explore topics ranging from climate change to clockmaking and the history of everyday objects. The museum hosts engaging talks on subjects like science and health, alongside a variety of workshops and interactive activities designed for kids.

Special exhibits spotlight timely themes such as self-driving cars and cybersecurity. With zones tailored for children and teens, the museum offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. For a deeper dive, book a London Science Museum tour with an expert guide to uncover hidden stories and gain insider insights into the exhibits.

Things to know before you go

• Entry to the museum is free, but some events, exhibits, and galleries require special London Science Museum tickets.

• The museum hosts adults-only events after hours on the last Wednesday of every month, except in December.

• There are accessible toilets and elevators as well as baby-changing facilities on every level.

• There are onsite cafes, a restaurant, and a gift shop.

• The Science Museum is mostly stroller and wheelchair accessible, but the mezzanine floor is only accessible via stairs.

How to get there

The Science Museum is located on Exhibition Road in South Kensington and is easily accessible via public transportation. South Kensington Tube station, a 5-minute walk from the museum, serves the District, Circle, and Piccadilly Lines. The museum is also on many hop-on hop-off bus routes. There is limited parking in the area.

When to get there

The Science Museum is open daily from mid-morning until early evening. Last entry is 45 minutes prior to closing. The museum closes on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. The museum closes a little later than usual during school holidays.

Other area attractions

After a few hours exploring the Science Museum’s exhibits, head to some of the other popular attractions located nearby. Just across the road, the Victoria and Albert Museum—better known as the V&A—is a treasure trove of art and design, while the neighboring Natural History Museum has fantastic exhibits about space, dinosaurs, British wildlife, and more.

Ways to explore

The Science Museum is open as a charity with free admission, but you must have a ticket to enter during a timed-admission slot, and it’s advisable to book this online in advance. Just note that while there’s a large amount of stuff to see for free, there are also several paid-for exhibitions, for which you’ll need to buy tickets at the front desk or ahead of your visit online.

While many visitors enter independently, you can also book a guided tour to get more out of your visit. Tours usually include door-to-door transport from your London hotel plus an itinerary that focuses on the exhibits that interest you most. The museum also offers free, volunteer-led tours.

Accessibility

Mostly wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and disabled restrooms on all floors. Wheelchairs are available for loan. Service animals are welcome. Hearing loops are throughout the museum.

Age limits

None, although an adult must accompany children under 12.

What to pack

If you have a baby or young child, bring a baby carrier so you can leave your stroller in a buggy park.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, small bag

Not allowed

If you’re planning a birthday here, keep in mind that balloons are banned (they interfere with the alarms if they float away).

Amenities

Bike racks by Exhibition Road, buggy parks for strollers, cafés and picnic areas, gift shop, restrooms with baby-changing facilities, self-service lockers

Address

The Science Museum is in Knightsbridge, close to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), the Natural History Museum, the Royal Albert Hall, and Hyde Park.

Driving

You need to pay the London Congestion Charge and the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) fee, if applicable for your vehicle. Street parking is limited, but there are paid parking lots in the area.

Public transportation

Take the tube to South Kensington via either the District and Circle or Piccadilly lines, and follow the signed underpass to the museum. It’s also walkable from Gloucester Road or Knightsbridge tube stations. Several buses from central London stop at the nearby Royal Albert Hall or South Kensington tube station, including routes 9, 14, and 52.

Best times to visit

Late afternoon is when the London Science Museum is at its quietest, when you’re more likely to dodge any large school groups.

Best days to visit

Visit weekdays to avoid the long weekend lines and crowds, and avoid UK public holidays when the museum is typically busy.

Best months to visit

The museum is more tranquil in the off-peak months, September and March, excluding the UK school vacation breaks.

Special events

Many events are held here, ranging from IMAX film screenings to themed family trails. Check out the Science Museum website ahead of your visit, as many events are ticketed.