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

Collections

Babbage Difference Engine Number 1

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

Corporate and private events

Couple drinking beer, c 1950s

Visit the museum

Exterior of the Science Museum

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

History

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

The Science Museum as an institution has been in existence for about a century and a half. It has its origins in the Great Exhibition of 1851, held in Hyde Park in the huge glass building known as the Crystal Palace.