Science Museum in London: A Great Family Day Out
The science museum offers an interactive and exciting day out regardless of age. While many review sites suggest allowing 2-3 hours for a visit it would be impossible to experience everything in that time. It is best to view it as a full day event as there really is so much going on. Plus this is a fun, free day out that cannot get spoiled by the British weather.
Depending upon visitors’ interests there are a variety of exhibitions to keep everyone enthralled. One of these is the Making of the Modern World where visitors can witness a number of objects that have defined our times. Visitors are encouraged to download the reality app which is presented by James May as he talks through the various displays. If visitors are more interested in the ‘Who’ than the ‘What’ then ‘Who am I?’ explores personal identity by looking at intelligence, personality and language. There are a number of tours which offers visitors a whistle-stop 30 minutes around some of the larger exhibits, which are brought to life by the skilled narrative of one of the museum guides.
The museum is designed to be as interactive as possible to capture visitors’ imaginations. There are a variety of age related activities catering for the under 5’s through to teens and adults. Pre-school children are introduced to construction, light and sound in the Garden exhibit, and for slightly older children there is the Pattern Pod where they can enjoy using multi-media to examine organic shapes. Teenagers will be kept entertained in the Launchpad area with over 50 interactive displays and shows, whilst adults are catered for through both traditional and hands-on exhibits. Each element is designed to be accessible for the target audience and promotes the thirst for knowledge and joy of discovery.
One of the biggest attractions is the IMAX theatre. There are a variety of shows in 3D which are available for all to watch, although under 13s must be accompanied by an adult. It costs a little bit extra to view some of the 3D and 4D films.
Finally, no trip to the Science museum would be complete without a visit to the gift shop. It is well stocked with an abundance of gadgets and kits aimed at inspiring creativity and developing the mind. There is a pocket money section as well as some quite expensive pieces to take home as a present.
Insider Tips:
There are a selection of places to eat and drink around the museum all offering family friendly dining and facilities. The café and restaurant provide light snacks as well as something more substantial. Visitors who choose to bring their own food are welcome to use the picnic area which is located on the first floor. In an effort to make visiting with children even easier, eating and drinking is permitted in the non-carpeted areas of the museum.
Getting here:
The easiest way to get to the museum is by tube. The nearest station is at South Kensington.
