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in the Green Zone
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nearest entrance:
Cromwell Road
(with steps)
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The Investigate Centre is currently closed.
Closure notice
The Investigate Centre is currently closed. We hope to open it again soon. Please check this page for updates.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Drop in to Investigate, our science centre where children and adults can get hands-on with the Museum's collection.
Designed especially for families with children aged 7+, the Investigate Centre has over 300 specimens to explore and spark your curiosity. You'll discover remarkable objects ranging from trays of fossils and beetles to larger bones, skins, minerals and much more.
Get up close with nature
Everything in the Investigate Centre can be held or touched, so pick an object to study and unleash your inner scientist. Examine it under a microscope or compare it with others objects, browse the dedicated library or chat with one of our friendly science educators, who are always on hand to support your investigation.
What will you discover?
Scientists make predictions about the natural world based on their observations. In the Investigate Centre, children are encouraged to think, explore and ask questions like a scientist. With so much to discover, there's something to inspire every young scientist.
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Science educators are on hand to support your investigation.
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Get up close and explore interesting objects.
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Examine and compare different types of animals and species.
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Weigh and measure your specimen.
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Take notes on your research.
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Examine your specimen under a microscope.
Explore the galleries with the Museum map
Find out how to get around with the Museum map. There are four zones to discover.
How to find the Investigate Centre
The Investigate Centre is in the Green Zone on the Lower Ground Floor. It can be accessed by the lift or stairs opposite the Creepy Crawlies gallery on the Ground Floor.
Read about the work of our Museum scientists
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Science newsToxic chemicals in UK whales and dolphins are exceeding safe limits
Almost half of marine mammals around the UK are being poisoned by banned chemicals.
28 November 2023 -
Science news400-million-year-old fish fossil reveals how we got our arms
A question that has puzzled scientists for over 150 years may finally have been answered.
1 November 2023 -
CollectionsWomen of colour who have broken barriers in the world of science
Our new Women in Science: Women of Colour Tour tells some inspiring stories.
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Science newsBird beaks reveal the changeable nature of evolution
The Natural History Museum’s collections are helping scientists to get a handle on how evolution works.
25 October 2023
Plan the rest of your day at the Museum
What's on
Find out what's on with our calendar of activities, special events and temporary exhibitions.
Getting here
Plan your journey to the Museum, including transport options and Blue Badge parking.
Galleries and maps
Discover what you can see and do in our free galleries. Get around with the Museum map.