Investigate
Reach out and touch amazing specimens
In the Museum's hands-on Investigate science centre, adults and children alike will enjoy handling the animal, plant and geological treasures stored here.
Have you ever touched a meteorite from space? Or a fossilised dinosaur bone?
Come and be a scientist in the Investigate centre. Use microscopes and other scientific tools to explore 100s of stunning objects from the natural world, just like our Museum scientists do. Our friendly staff are on hand to help you with your explorations.
Investigate is free for everyone to drop in and explore. It is located on the Museum's lower ground floor in the Green Zone.
See individual time and date listings in the event calendar
Investigate visiting details
- The centre is reserved for school visits on weekday mornings during term time. General visitors are welcome term time weekday afternoons between 14.30 and 17.00.
- During holidays and weekends, the centre is open from 11.00 to 17.00 (last entry is 16.30).
- At busy times you may be given a ticket and asked to come back at a later time, so please allow time in your visit for this.
Investigate highlights
- Handle and examine real specimens from the natural world.
- Explore living organisms in the adjoining courtyard garden.
- Study specimens using microscopes and other scientific instruments and resources.
- Call on our Science Educators to support and guide your investigations.
- Most suitable for families and schools with children aged 7 to 14 years, but there's something for everyone.
Investigate centre closures
The Investigate centre closes for maintenance on the last Thursday of each month from 14.30, except during school holidays. Contact the Museum on +44 (0) 20 7942 5555 for more information.
