Top Things To Do In Museum Of Natural History (Oxford) In 2026 - 2027

Museum

Top 10 things to do in Museum of Natural History

1. Permanent Exhibitions Tour
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, home to a vast collection of specimens. Visitors can embark on a journey through time, exploring the evolution of life on Earth. From the prehistoric to the present, the permanent exhibitions offer a glimpse into the diversity of life forms. Marvel at the intricate dinosaur skeletons, inspect the vast array of minerals, and be in awe of the museum's iconic architecture, including the glass roof with its iron framework. The museum's collection is not just a display; it serves as an informative tool that sheds light on the Earth's history, the processes that have shaped life, and the biodiversity we see today. With exhibits covering zoology, entomology, palaeontology, and mineralogy, there's an endless array of wonders to absorb. Knowledgeable docents and interactive displays will enhance your understanding of the natural sciences.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free
2. Dinosaur Discovery
The 'Dinosaur Discovery' activity is one of the highlights for families visiting the Oxford Museum of Natural History. Get up close and personal with the museum's prehistoric inhabitants as part of this fascinating exploration. Participants can learn about the giants that once roamed the Earth, discovering their secrets through hands-on activities and expert talks. The museum houses several impressive dinosaur remains including the Megalosaurus – the first named dinosaur and an important part of the county's heritage. Young explorers can engage in a treasure hunt for fossils, participate in craft activities, and even meet the museum's resident dinosaur mascot. This educational and entertaining activity is designed to bring the history of these magnificent creatures to life in an interactive and accessible way, sparking curiosity and a love of learning in young minds.
Duration: 1-3 hours · Price: Free, small charge for some craft activities
3. Behind the Scenes Tour
The 'Behind the Scenes Tour' at the Oxford Museum of Natural History offers a unique opportunity to see where science happens. This special tour takes visitors into the areas normally closed to the public, where the museum's extensive collections are researched and preserved. During the tour, you can peek into the museum's storerooms and laboratories, and see where scientists conduct their work to better understand the natural environment. Learn about the processes of preserving and cataloguing millions of specimens, discover research projects that are currently underway, and gain insights into the methods and tools used by scientists in their day to day work. This rare glimpse behind the curtains offers a deeper appreciation of the museum's role in conservation, education, and scientific discovery.
Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Tickets required, price varies
4. Meet the Experts
Regular 'Meet the Experts' sessions are organized at the Oxford Museum of Natural History. These sessions provide visitors with the chance to engage with scientists and ask questions about their research. Whether it's understanding how insects are adapting to climate change or discussing the geological formations of the local area, there is a wide range of expertise on offer. These informal talks and presentations are an excellent way for the public to connect with the ongoing work of the museum and learn about cutting-edge natural science research. Attendees of all ages can come away inspired by the discoveries being made and the enthusiastic people who dedicate their careers to exploring and understanding the natural world.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free
5. Sketching Saturday
For those who like to express their observations creatively, the Oxford Museum of Natural History holds 'Sketching Saturday' events. This activity is intended for visitors of all artistic abilities to come and sketch the museum's collections in a relaxed environment. With its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and natural lighting, the museum provides a beautiful backdrop for artists. Sketching offers a unique way to engage with the exhibits, encouraging visitors to take a closer look at the details of each specimen. Whether you're interested in capturing the complexity of an ammonite shell's spiral or the delicate anatomy of a bird's wing, there's endless inspiration to be found among the museum's displays. Materials are often provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own.
Duration: Varies · Price: Free, though donations are welcome
6. Family Friendly Sundays
The museum dedicates every Sunday to families with 'Family Friendly Sundays'. These days are packed with activities specifically designed for children and their guardians to learn about nature together. You can find storytelling sessions, interactive science shows, and themed trails that take you on an adventure throughout the museum. Family Friendly Sundays are perfect for sparking an interest in the natural world, with a range of activities that cater to various age groups. Children can participate in hands-on workshops, craft sessions, and even science experiments, making this a stimulating and fun day out for the whole family. The Museum ensures that these events are accessible to all, often including resources for those with additional needs.
Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Free, small charge for some craft activities
7. Photography Evenings
For photography enthusiasts, the Oxford Museum of Natural History occasionally opens its doors for special 'Photography Evenings'. These events allow visitors to capture the museum’s incredible exhibits without the usual daytime crowds. It's an opportunity for amateur and professional photographers alike to take their time composing the perfect shot, whether it be of the museum's iconic architecture or its vast array of specimens. Special lighting setups may be featured to highlight the beauty of the collections, and tripod use is often permitted during these sessions. Participants can explore the displays at their leisure, discovering new angles and perspectives that tell a visual story of our planet's history.
Duration: 2 hours · Price: Typically requires a ticket with a set fee
8. Night at the Museum
Experience the museum in a whole new light during the 'Night at the Museum' events. These special after-hours openings allow visitors to explore the museum's wonders after dark, with a variety of unique activities planned. You might attend a talk about nocturnal animals, participate in a flashlight tour to see the exhibits in a different ambiance, or watch a live animal demonstration. These events bring an element of mystery and excitement to the museum experience, making it a memorable visit for attendees of all ages. Some 'Night at the Museum' events may include a theme, such as Halloween scares or historical celebrations, creating an immersive atmosphere.
Duration: 3 hours · Price: Ticketed event, prices may vary
9. Art and Science Workshops
The intersection of art and science is celebrated through specialized workshops offered by the Oxford Museum of Natural History. These sessions invite participants to delve into a variety of topics, such as scientific illustration, botanical drawing, or the art of taxidermy. Led by experts in their fields, attendees can deepen their understanding of the natural world while honing their artistic skills. Workshops may utilize specimens from the museum's collection as reference, providing a tangible link between creative expression and scientific inquiry. Whether a novice artist or an experienced creator, these workshops can offer a new perspective on how art can communicate scientific concepts and capture the beauty of the natural world.
Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Variable, registration required
10. Evolution Workshops
To enhance understanding of evolution, one of the core themes of the museum, the 'Evolution Workshops' offer an interactive educational experience. These sessions are designed to engage participants with the mechanisms of natural selection, adaptation, and speciation through hands-on activities. Visitors might use models to simulate evolutionary processes, examine real fossils and specimens, or work with software to see how populations change over time. Educational staff lead the workshops, providing insights and answering questions about the theory that underpins much of modern biology. This is an invaluable learning opportunity for students, educators, and anyone with a keen interest in the history of life on Earth.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free to school groups, fee may apply for others

Other Places to Visit in Oxford

View all places to visit in Oxford

Educational Institution

University of Oxford

Library – Historical Landmark

Bodleian Library

Historic Building/Library

Radcliffe Camera

Historic Site/College/Cathedral

Christ Church College and Cathedral

Museum

Ashmolean Museum

Historical Landmark

Oxford Castle and Prison

Historic Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre

Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum

Educational Institution

Magdalen College and its Deer Park

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Other Suggested Reads for Museum of Natural History

Top 10 things to do in Museum of Natural History

1. Permanent Exhibitions Tour

Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, home to a vast collection of specimens. Visitors can embark on a journey through time, exploring the evolution of life on Earth. From the prehistoric to the present, the permanent exhibitions offer a glimpse into the diversity of life forms. Marvel at the intricate dinosaur skeletons, inspect the vast array of minerals, and be in awe of the museum's iconic architecture, including the glass roof with its iron framework. The museum's collection is not just a display; it serves as an informative tool that sheds light on the Earth's history, the processes that have shaped life, and the biodiversity we see today. With exhibits covering zoology, entomology, palaeontology, and mineralogy, there's an endless array of wonders to absorb. Knowledgeable docents and interactive displays will enhance your understanding of the natural sciences.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free

2. Dinosaur Discovery

The 'Dinosaur Discovery' activity is one of the highlights for families visiting the Oxford Museum of Natural History. Get up close and personal with the museum's prehistoric inhabitants as part of this fascinating exploration. Participants can learn about the giants that once roamed the Earth, discovering their secrets through hands-on activities and expert talks. The museum houses several impressive dinosaur remains including the Megalosaurus – the first named dinosaur and an important part of the county's heritage. Young explorers can engage in a treasure hunt for fossils, participate in craft activities, and even meet the museum's resident dinosaur mascot. This educational and entertaining activity is designed to bring the history of these magnificent creatures to life in an interactive and accessible way, sparking curiosity and a love of learning in young minds.

Duration: 1-3 hours · Price: Free, small charge for some craft activities

3. Behind the Scenes Tour

The 'Behind the Scenes Tour' at the Oxford Museum of Natural History offers a unique opportunity to see where science happens. This special tour takes visitors into the areas normally closed to the public, where the museum's extensive collections are researched and preserved. During the tour, you can peek into the museum's storerooms and laboratories, and see where scientists conduct their work to better understand the natural environment. Learn about the processes of preserving and cataloguing millions of specimens, discover research projects that are currently underway, and gain insights into the methods and tools used by scientists in their day to day work. This rare glimpse behind the curtains offers a deeper appreciation of the museum's role in conservation, education, and scientific discovery.

Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Tickets required, price varies

4. Meet the Experts

Regular 'Meet the Experts' sessions are organized at the Oxford Museum of Natural History. These sessions provide visitors with the chance to engage with scientists and ask questions about their research. Whether it's understanding how insects are adapting to climate change or discussing the geological formations of the local area, there is a wide range of expertise on offer. These informal talks and presentations are an excellent way for the public to connect with the ongoing work of the museum and learn about cutting-edge natural science research. Attendees of all ages can come away inspired by the discoveries being made and the enthusiastic people who dedicate their careers to exploring and understanding the natural world.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free

5. Sketching Saturday

For those who like to express their observations creatively, the Oxford Museum of Natural History holds 'Sketching Saturday' events. This activity is intended for visitors of all artistic abilities to come and sketch the museum's collections in a relaxed environment. With its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and natural lighting, the museum provides a beautiful backdrop for artists. Sketching offers a unique way to engage with the exhibits, encouraging visitors to take a closer look at the details of each specimen. Whether you're interested in capturing the complexity of an ammonite shell's spiral or the delicate anatomy of a bird's wing, there's endless inspiration to be found among the museum's displays. Materials are often provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own.

Duration: Varies · Price: Free, though donations are welcome

6. Family Friendly Sundays

The museum dedicates every Sunday to families with 'Family Friendly Sundays'. These days are packed with activities specifically designed for children and their guardians to learn about nature together. You can find storytelling sessions, interactive science shows, and themed trails that take you on an adventure throughout the museum. Family Friendly Sundays are perfect for sparking an interest in the natural world, with a range of activities that cater to various age groups. Children can participate in hands-on workshops, craft sessions, and even science experiments, making this a stimulating and fun day out for the whole family. The Museum ensures that these events are accessible to all, often including resources for those with additional needs.

Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Free, small charge for some craft activities

7. Photography Evenings

For photography enthusiasts, the Oxford Museum of Natural History occasionally opens its doors for special 'Photography Evenings'. These events allow visitors to capture the museum’s incredible exhibits without the usual daytime crowds. It's an opportunity for amateur and professional photographers alike to take their time composing the perfect shot, whether it be of the museum's iconic architecture or its vast array of specimens. Special lighting setups may be featured to highlight the beauty of the collections, and tripod use is often permitted during these sessions. Participants can explore the displays at their leisure, discovering new angles and perspectives that tell a visual story of our planet's history.

Duration: 2 hours · Price: Typically requires a ticket with a set fee

8. Night at the Museum

Experience the museum in a whole new light during the 'Night at the Museum' events. These special after-hours openings allow visitors to explore the museum's wonders after dark, with a variety of unique activities planned. You might attend a talk about nocturnal animals, participate in a flashlight tour to see the exhibits in a different ambiance, or watch a live animal demonstration. These events bring an element of mystery and excitement to the museum experience, making it a memorable visit for attendees of all ages. Some 'Night at the Museum' events may include a theme, such as Halloween scares or historical celebrations, creating an immersive atmosphere.

Duration: 3 hours · Price: Ticketed event, prices may vary

9. Art and Science Workshops

The intersection of art and science is celebrated through specialized workshops offered by the Oxford Museum of Natural History. These sessions invite participants to delve into a variety of topics, such as scientific illustration, botanical drawing, or the art of taxidermy. Led by experts in their fields, attendees can deepen their understanding of the natural world while honing their artistic skills. Workshops may utilize specimens from the museum's collection as reference, providing a tangible link between creative expression and scientific inquiry. Whether a novice artist or an experienced creator, these workshops can offer a new perspective on how art can communicate scientific concepts and capture the beauty of the natural world.

Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Variable, registration required

10. Evolution Workshops

To enhance understanding of evolution, one of the core themes of the museum, the 'Evolution Workshops' offer an interactive educational experience. These sessions are designed to engage participants with the mechanisms of natural selection, adaptation, and speciation through hands-on activities. Visitors might use models to simulate evolutionary processes, examine real fossils and specimens, or work with software to see how populations change over time. Educational staff lead the workshops, providing insights and answering questions about the theory that underpins much of modern biology. This is an invaluable learning opportunity for students, educators, and anyone with a keen interest in the history of life on Earth.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free to school groups, fee may apply for others