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Beyond the Galleries Tour

A collection of archive specimens, including a book open on the library table

Delve into the archives

Join us for a special tour package that combines our Secrets of the Natural History Museum Tour with a behind-the-scenes library session, where you’ll get to view our most treasured archive materials up close.

Every Friday from 10 January to 28 February, 15.00-16.30

Adult £25, Child: £20
Member Adult: £20, Member Child £16

Book your tickets

This brand-new tour package offers you an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience.

Your journey begins with our Secrets of the Natural History Museum Tour, which explores the fascinating history of our stunning building and uncovers the mysteries it holds. Starting in the late 1800s, you’ll see digital copies of original sketches and architectural plans for the building, before discovering how it was added to in the twenty-first century.

Following the tour, we’ll take you on a 30-minute behind-the-scenes visit to our beautiful library. Our knowledgeable Assistant Archivist will tell you all about our libraries and the fascinating and important archives and collections they hold. They’ll also divulge the conservation techniques they use to care for these delicate materials to ensure they survive for future generations. Plus, they’ll show you original archival pieces, from Alfred Waterhouse’s original drawings to historic wartime photography. Reserve your spot and see the Natural History Museum through an entirely new lens!

This tour is only for ages 12+.

  • Important information

    Your tour guide will meet you at our Exhibition Road entrance. There will be a sign pointing to this location.

    Arrive on time, as the tour will start promptly.

    This tour is strictly for ages 12+.

    The tour is fully accessible.

    This tour takes place during our public opening hours, so we have headsets for you to use for a better listening experience.

    Entry to our paid exhibitions is not included in your tour ticket, these must be bought separately.

    You must bring an electronic or printed copy of your ticket with you.

    We’re unable to accommodate additional guests on the day.

    Tickets are non-refundable.

    We’re unable to provide refunds or exchanges to latecomers.

    Ticket price doesn’t include use of our cloakroom.

    Ticket prices are subject to change.

    A free ticket for a carer accompanying a guest with a disability can be requested by calling us on +44 (0)20 7942 5000, 09.30–17.30 Monday to Friday, subject to availability.

    Got a question? Call us on +44 (0)20 7942 5000, Monday to Friday 09.30–17.30 or email us at guidedtours@nhm.ac.uk.

    To request a private tour email us at guidedtours@nhm.ac.uk.

    We reserve the right to make any necessary changes to the event as required, such as adjusting the locations, timings or content of the activities. This is to ensure that we deliver a safe experience for guests at all times.

Discount member tickets

Members can purchase discount tickets for this event. Please bring your membership card with you to the event. Not a member? Join today.

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