Science Museum
Science Museum · London
Hands-on galleries covering space, technology, and the human body make this a must for inquisitive minds. Younger children love the dedicated Wonder Lab.
Pre-schoolers (3–5)Primary (6–10)Tweens & teens (11–16)FreeIndoorHalf day
Why families love it
- The interactive Wonderlab gallery lets children experiment with forces, light and sound through proper hands-on science rather than just pushing buttons.
- The flight gallery showcases genuine aircraft suspended overhead, including Amy Johnson's Gipsy Moth, which never fails to impress even the most screen-addicted teenagers.
- The medical history galleries feature surprisingly engaging exhibits about the human body that manage to be both educational and genuinely fascinating for curious minds.
Best for
Families with curious children who prefer doing to watching, particularly those aged five and up who'll get the most from the interactive exhibits.
Good to know
Arrive when doors open at 10am to beat coach parties, and head straight to Wonderlab on the ground floor before it gets rammed. The museum cafe is expensive and mediocre, so grab lunch at one of the nearby South Kensington cafes instead. The ground floor loos near the entrance get queues, but there are quieter facilities on upper floors. If you have a pram, store it in the cloakroom as the lifts can be slow and crowded.
Practical info
- Age guidance
- Best suited for children aged four and above who can engage with the exhibits, though entry is free for all ages including adults.
- Typical cost
- Entry to the permanent galleries is completely free, but the popular Wonderlab requires paid timed tickets at fifteen pounds per person.
- How long to allow
- Plan for three to four hours minimum, or a full day if your children are proper science enthusiasts or you want to include Wonderlab.
- Last checked
- May 2026