An exciting new discovery centre has landed in our city that’s sure to excite the numberphile in your life, and covertly convert those who are too cool to like maths. Introducing MathsWorld, which has opened on London’s South Bank just in time for half term.
MathsWorld follows in the success of Leeds’ MathsCity to “do for mathematics what the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum do for the physical and biological sciences”. The hands-on museum provides visitors the chance to interact with maths in all manner of ways – with a particular focus on maths as it occurs in the real world. This ain’t not maths class – it’s so much more than that.
Guests can take part in experiments, tackle fiendish challenges, and explore a variety of curiosities and images. There are over 40 hands-on exhibits within MathsWorld, which is split up into Zones across its 700 square-metre space. These Zones encompass a variety of themes, such as:
- Code-breaking
- Artificial Intelligence
- Shape
- Problem solving
There is also a dedicated area for under-8s (or just the less mathematically-inclined…).
But this isn’t just a museum for kids. MathsWorld includes “material suited to visitors of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, from beginners to mathematics professionals”. That means it doesn’t matter if you struggle to remember your times tables or are a pro with the Quadratic Formula, you’ll find something to grapple with here. And you’ll no doubt learn something new along the way.
MathsWorld around the world
MathsWorld follows in the footsteps of MathCity, which has attracted 48,000 visitors since it opened in 2021. Given the larger space and prime location, MathsWorld is expected to see over 90,000 visitors coming through its doors each year.
MathsWorld and MathCity have themselves drawn inspiration from other maths discovery centres around the world. They’ve particularly been influenced by the Mathematikum in Germany and MoMath in the USA.
With something to offer for everyone, from school trips to groups of tourists, families, and just curious number-lovers, MathsWorld hopes to “foster awareness of the central role maths has played, and will increasingly continue to play, in the world around us”.
đź“Ť You can find MathsWorld at Arches, 6 Burrell Street, SE1 0UN. The nearest stations are Blackfriars and Southwark.
Find out more about MathsWorld here.