Oxford University Museum of Natural History

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is not just a museum; it is a sublime temple to discovery and an absolute, non-negotiable gem for anyone with a passion for geology, archaeology, or the raw wonder of the natural world. Housed in a 19th-century neo-Gothic masterpiece on Parks Road, its vast, cathedral-like hall—with a soaring glass roof and intricately carved stone columns—is itself a monumental exhibit, designed to reflect the unity of nature, art, and science. For the geologist, the ground floor is a paradise. The mineral and meteorite collections are world-class, displayed with both scientific clarity and artistic beauty. You can stand before breathtaking crystal formations, touch a slice of Martian meteorite, and trace Earth's history through meticulously curated rock sequences. For the archaeologist and anthropologist, the true magic lies just beyond: a door at the rear leads directly into the Pitt Rivers Museum, one of the world's most important and evocative collections of human cultural history. This densely packed, dimly lit cabinet of curiosities holds everything from Hawaiian feather cloaks and Inuit kayaks to ceremonial masks and ancient tools, arranged typologically to spark wonder and comparative thought. My highest recommendation comes with strategic advice. You must visit both museums as one continuous experience. Allocate at least three hours, and start in the bright, architectural splendor of the Natural History Museum before diving into the captivating labyrinth of the Pitt Rivers. Engage with the staff and volunteers—often practicing scientists—who can share incredible insights. Visit on a weekday morning for quieter contemplation, and don't forget to look up: the building's ironwork and the stone columns, each carved with a different British plant species, are a testament to Victorian scientific detail. This is where the spirit of academic curiosity becomes tangible. It is a deeply inspiring, beautifully preserved, and utterly essential institution that reminds us why we explore, collect, and strive to understand our planet and our past. Do not miss it.

Fascinating museum. Much quieted than the London one (which is honestly a plus), but with some great exhibits. The fossil collection and dinosaur casts were a particular highlight for our son – once we managed to tear him away from the gift shop. The staff are friendly and very keen to impart their knowledge. We came twice in one weekend to make sure we saw everything.

Beautiful museum in a wonderful building. I visited in poor weather and it was wonderful to see Oxford at its best, but indoors! A great place for photography, lovely exhibits and friendly staff - on the door and the little cafe upstairs. Loads to see for children and grown-ups! The building itself is so nice to look at, it is possible to overlook just how much effort has gone into the actual exhibits - which were in some places quite different to my last visit.

I visited this place on a weekday (Thursday) with no pre plans and no tickets booked. I think the entry is free as i was not asked to buy any at the entrance. It was a two storey meuseum extension with the skeleton frameworks on the ground floor. It is not that huge. Everything inside is managed very beautifully with a cafeteria on the top floor where you also get access to wifi. I found the staff working there very friendly and I was very happy to know that we can take pictures all inside however you are not allowed to take foods and drinks inside it and you get to see a poster suggesting this at the entragate. Got to see multiple skeleton frameworks of those creatures that don't exist in today's world. I liked the way those tiny insects were kept. Multiple varieties can be seen in the same frame. The circlike structure is beautifully designed by crabs and other species, and the globe like structures made up of by multiple species of butterflies 🦋 also appear so fresh and beautiful. There's also a rotating DNA sequence module and different marine gastropods. Main attraction is the giant whale skull and the giant skeleton of dinosaurs in the middle of the meuseum. Expect these you will get to see crocodile, beer, turtle, ostrich, owl, pegion, peacock, and varieties of other species as well. I have attached photographs for your reference. It's a very good place to visit either for an educational purpose or just at your leisure. I will definitely recommend visiting.

A good place to visit. The museum is full of history, with a lot of exhibits, from stuffed animals, to clothes from different historical periods and all kinds of things made by man throughout humanity. Entrance is free.