Event information
A free annual celebration of science and the arts across South Kensington.
17 & 18 June
Free, ticketed events
In the Museum and on Exhibition Road
The Great Exhibition of 1851 was revolutionary! Held in Hyde Park, it was a celebration of science, technology, art and design, showcasing objects and innovations from all around the world.
In fact, if it wasn't for this extraordinary exhibition, we, along with our neighbours the V&A and the Science Museum, might not be where we are today! It was actually the Great Exhibition that led to the creation of the permanent museum quarter in London's South Kensington.
Since 2019, the Great Exhibition Road Festival has celebrated science and the arts. At this year's festival we'll be exploring the power of awe and wonder to inspire us, motivate change and spark innovation.
We're working together with the V&A, the Science Museum and Imperial College London to explore the extraordinary, from scientific innovations to the future of food. Join us on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 June for a weekend jammed packed with fun, free events and activities for all ages.
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What is the Great Exhibition Road Festival?
A free annual celebration of science and the arts across South Kensington., the festival is a collaboration between organisations on and around Exhibition Road.
What's on?
The Great Exhibition Talk
Join our Principal Curator of Mammals Richard Sabin and our Head of Conservation Lorraine Cornish as they delve into how the Great Exhibition of 1851 came about and why we celebrate it today with our own mini Exhibition Road Festival.
In 1851, the Great Exhibition introduced stunned audiences to magnificent objects and scientific innovations from all around the world. But this sheer awe and wonder wasn't the only thing sparked by the festival, it also had a profound impact on science and society! Find out how this extraordinary exhibition shaped science, industry and the everyday lives of the British people.
14.30-15.00, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 June
The Ocean Show
It's time to plunge beneath the waves and submerge yourself in life in the oceans. Join us on an underwater adventure as you take on the role of a deep-sea diver in our fun, interactive family show.
Find out all about the weird and wonderful creatures that live in the deep, dark depths of the oceans and discover how our scientists are exploring this fascinating underwater world.
Free, family event
15.30-16.00 and 16.30-17.00, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 June
Women in Science tours: Palaeontology
Discover the fascinating work of female palaeontologists on this tour of the Museum's first-floor balconies, where you'll encounter numerous treasures and develop your understanding of fossils and ancient life.
Learn about the research of female palaeontologists past and present, including some who've worked at the Museum.
Various dates. Free, walk-ups accepted subject to capacity.
Art Highlights Tour
Take a short, guided tour of our Images of Nature gallery and see some of our most treasured artworks and archive items. Our knowledgeable guides will explore the stories behind each exhibit and discuss how big issues relating to biodiversity and the environment can be addressed through art.
Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 June
16.00-16:15, 16.30-16.45, 16.45-17.00
Parasites
Find out how scientists at the Museum are working with colleagues around the world to better understand the parasite infections and are helping to improve the health and wellbeing of millions of people.
Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 June
12.00-17.30
Free, drop in event
Behind the Scenes Tour: Spirit Collection
Go behind the scenes with our knowledgeable science educators for a look at the Museum's fascinating zoology collection preserved in spirit.
Various dates.
Adult £25, Member £22.50
The Biggest Dinosaurs That Ever Lived
Join Professor Paul Barratt as he tackles some of the big questions science has about supersized dinosaurs, including: how were they able to grow that large? What and how much did they eat? And why are so many found in one part of South America?
Saturday 17 June 14.30-15.15
Free