Science Museum
A vast treasury of science & invention, famous for its state-of-the-art interactive exhibits.
Science Museum is rated 4.6 / 5 from 76,649 Google reviews and sits about 1.9 km (23 min walk) from Notting Hill Gate station.
General overview
About Science Museum
The Science Museum in South Kensington explores science, technology, engineering, medicine and their impact on society. Major highlights include the Apollo 10 command module, Stephenson’s Rocket, the Energy Hall, Making the Modern World and interactive family galleries. General admission is normally free, with advance booking recommended; some exhibitions, simulators and experiences require paid tickets. All details below are based on general training knowledge and have not been live-verified.
- Apollo 10 command module
- Stephenson’s Rocket and historic railway collections
- Energy Hall, including early steam engines
- Making the Modern World gallery
- Information Age gallery
- Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery, an interactive science experience
- IMAX and other special experiences, subject to availability
- London Science Museum location near the Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum
Things to do here
General museum visit
Explore the permanent galleries covering space, transport, computing, medicine, engineering and scientific discovery. General admission is usually free.
Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery
Interactive demonstrations and hands-on exhibits aimed especially at families and children. Usually requires a separate paid ticket.
IMAX or cinema experience
Large-format science and educational films may be shown in the museum cinema. Film tickets are generally paid separately.
Special exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions may cover subjects such as space, medicine, engineering, climate or technology. Admission arrangements and prices vary.
Flight and space collections
See aircraft, spacecraft and objects illustrating the history of aviation and space exploration, including the Apollo 10 command module.
Medicine and medical history galleries
Collections examine medical instruments, surgery, public health and the development of modern medicine.
The museum is on Exhibition Road in South Kensington. South Kensington Underground station is the usual access point; allow extra time for security and queues. Arrive near the beginning of your timed slot.
Book free general admission in advance where possible, and reserve paid experiences such as Wonderlab or IMAX separately.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Watch first
Video
Exploring the Science Museum in London · Best of UK (YouTube)
Most asked
How to reach
Science Museum is about 1.9 km (~23 min walk) from Notting Hill Gate station on the London Underground.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Science Museum from Notting Hill Gate station?
Science Museum is about 1873 m (roughly 23 min walk) from Notting Hill Gate station on the London Underground. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Science Museum rated?
Science Museum has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 76,649 reviews.
What's near Science Museum?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Jacuzzi, Dishoom Kensington, Royal Lancaster London.
Is Science Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Science Museum: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Science Museum?
Google lists these parking options near Science Museum: free parking lot, paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is Science Museum good for children?
Yes — Google lists Science Museum as good for children.
Is entry to the Science Museum free?
General admission to the permanent museum is normally free, although timed booking may be recommended or required. Wonderlab, IMAX and some temporary exhibitions usually cost extra.
How long should I spend there?
Allow around two to four hours for key galleries. Families and visitors adding Wonderlab, films or special exhibitions may spend most of a day.
Can I visit without booking?
You may sometimes be able to enter without a reservation, but advance booking is advisable because timed entry can sell out during weekends, holidays and busy periods.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. It has interactive galleries and family-oriented experiences, particularly Wonderlab, as well as large collections relating to space, transport and technology.
Can I take photographs?
Personal photography is generally allowed in many permanent galleries, but check signs because temporary exhibitions and some objects may prohibit photography or flash.
How do I get there?
South Kensington is the closest Underground station, served by the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines. The museum is on Exhibition Road, within walking distance of several other major museums.
Are there places to eat?
The museum generally has cafés or food outlets, though individual opening times and menus can change.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
It is generally accessible, with lifts and accessible toilets. Visitors with specific access needs should contact the museum before arrival for current details.
Can I bring luggage?
Large bags and luggage may not be accepted, and cloakroom or locker capacity may be limited. Travel light where possible.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 26, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.