Visiting the Darwin Centre
Uncover the science of nature
Curious? Meet our Darwin Centre science guides in this video
The landmark Darwin Centre is now open to the public. Museum visitors can explore world-class science in action in a dramatic new public space.
The Darwin Centre is a state-of-the-art science and collections facility. The building is the most significant expansion at the Museum since it moved to South Kensington in 1881.
See world-leading scientists at work, incredible specimens, exciting displays and much more.
Entrance is free
10.00 - 17.50
No advance booking is required
The Darwin Centre is open after hours this summer until 21.30 on the last Friday of the month on:
- 25 June, 30 July and 27 August
Find out about the Darwin Centre's many attractions including the spectacular Cocoon experience and high-tech Attenborough Studio.
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Getting to the Darwin Centre
Find out how to get to the Darwin Centre and where all the great places to explore inside are.
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Cocoon
Get a sneak preview of what the spectacular Cocoon experience reveals.
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Cocoon highlights
Glimpse some of the incredible exhibits and amazing views and activities inside Cocoon, so you know what to look for on your visit.
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Attenborough Studio
Join in exciting events and shows in this high-tech studio space.
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Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity
Find out about UK biodiversity and how you can get involved in nature activities.
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NaturePlus in the Darwin Centre
When you visit the Darwin Centre, pick up your free NaturePlus card to collect highlights of your visit along with bonus features to explore later online. Find out more.
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Climate Change Wall
Witness the dramatic effect of climate change at this visually stunning wall display of moving images, films and graphics.
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Science in the Darwin Centre
Uncover the vital work that Museum scientists do in the new centre's state-of-the-art labs.
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Darwin Centre architecture
Be dazzled by the dramatic designs of the Darwin Centre cocoon building.
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Learning activities in the Darwin Centre
Explore the fantastic learning activities and events for schools.
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Sign up for e-news
Sign up for e-news and get regular updates about the Darwin Centre.
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Royal opening of the Darwin Centre highlights
Enjoy some of the momentous moments at the royal celebrations for the Darwin Centre's opening.
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Darwin Centre videos
Watch some of our Darwin Centre videos from the earliest development stages to the spectacular royal opening event.
Experience Cocoon
Cocoon
Take the Cocoon journey. Share the excitement of exploring, studying and preserving nature in this dramatic public space and state-of-the-art scientific research centre.
No advance booking is required.
Experience Cocoon at night
More to explore
The new Darwin Centre Courtyard opens for After Hours
Enjoy an evening drink and picnic-style menu outside in the relaxing ambience of our newly-unveiled Darwin Centre Courtyard terrace. Next summer After Hours are on 30 July and 27 August.
Find out about summer After Hours opening
Stunning specimens revealed
Marvel at 100s of specimens, displays and interactives.
Explore the specimen collection
Cutting-edge science in action
See scientists at work on vital research and delve into the science of nature.
Glimpse the grandeur of the building
View the breathtaking Darwin Centre cocoon building from all angles in our slideshow. See the latest photos.
Find out about the fearless abseilers who cleaned the cocoon exterior.
Cleaning the cocoon news article
Darwin Centre supporters
The Natural History Museum is grateful for the support of the following donors.
