Free Entry & Exhibition Tickets

Everything you need to know about admission to the Natural History Museum

Free General Admission

The Natural History Museum offers free general admission to all visitors, every day of the year (except 24-26 December). There is no charge, no ticket required, and no need to book in advance for the permanent galleries.

What's included for free:

    • Hintze Hall and the blue whale skeleton "Hope"
    • Dinosaur Gallery (including the animatronic T. rex)
    • Earth Hall and the escalator through the globe
    • Minerals gallery and the Vault
    • Treasures gallery
    • Human Biology gallery
    • Fossils from Britain gallery
    • Birds gallery and Ecology gallery
    • Darwin Centre (Cocoon building)
    • Wildlife Garden (seasonal)

The museum is funded through government grants, commercial activities and voluntary donations. A suggested donation of £5 is encouraged but entirely optional. Donation boxes are located near the entrances and throughout the museum.

Special Exhibitions & Events

While general admission is free, some special temporary exhibitions and events require separately purchased tickets:

Temporary exhibitions: Major exhibitions such as Wildlife Photographer of the Year typically cost around £13-16 for adults, with concession rates available. Children, members and certain concession groups may receive discounts. Timed tickets should be booked in advance through the museum's website as popular exhibitions often sell out.

Lates (adults-only evenings): The museum hosts periodic evening events for adults (18+) called "Lates," featuring talks, workshops, drinks and gallery access after hours. These are separately ticketed, usually around £25-35, and run from approximately 18:00 to 22:00.

Seasonal ice rink: During the winter season (typically late October to mid-January), the museum hosts an outdoor ice rink in its grounds. Ice skating sessions are separately ticketed and must be booked in advance.

Museum membership: NHM Members receive unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, priority booking for events, exclusive previews, and 10% discount in the shops and cafes. Annual membership is available from around £70 for adults.

Free Entry & Tickets FAQ

Common questions about admission and tickets

Is the Natural History Museum really free?
Yes, general admission to the Natural History Museum is completely free for everyone — all nationalities, all ages. No ticket or booking is required. Just walk in during opening hours. Only special temporary exhibitions and certain events require separately purchased tickets.
How much do special exhibition tickets cost?
Special exhibition tickets typically cost £13-16 for adults. Concession rates are usually available for children, students, seniors and disabled visitors. NHM Members get free unlimited entry to all exhibitions. Check the museum's website for current exhibition prices and availability.
Do I need to make a donation?
No, donations are entirely voluntary. The museum suggests a £5 donation to help support its work, but there is absolutely no obligation. You will not be asked to donate at the entrance — donation boxes are simply placed around the museum for those who wish to contribute.
Is museum membership worth it?
If you plan to visit paid exhibitions more than once a year, NHM membership (from around £70/year for adults) can be excellent value. Members get unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, priority booking, exclusive events, and 10% off in shops and cafes. For occasional visitors, general admission is free and individual exhibition tickets are affordable.

Visit the Natural History Museum for Free

Free general admission every day. Over 80 million specimens, world-famous galleries, and unforgettable experiences for all.

Plan Your Visit