About us

The Science Museum was founded in 1857 with objects shown at the Great Exhibition held in the Crystal Palace. Today the Museum is world renowned for its historic collections, awe-inspiring galleries and inspirational exhibitions.

Telephones on racking at Blythe House

Climate change

10:10 logo

We've pledged to cut carbon emissions by 10% during 2010 as part of the 10:10 scheme

Visit the museum

Exterior of the Science Museum

We are open 10am - 6pm every day except 24 to 26 December. Entry is free!

Collections

Babbage Difference Engine Number 1

We have hundreds of thousands of objects in our collection, from aircraft to microchips.

Corporate and private events

Gallery set up for function

The Science Museum is an award-winning event venue in the heart of South Kensington.

History

Construction of the East Block, Science Museum, London, 9 May 1919

The Science Museum has its origins in the Great Exhibition of 1851, held in Hyde Park.

Research

Paul Ehrlich, German bacteriologist, c 1910

Research is key to interpreting, safeguarding and developing the museum's collections.