When you think of London’s museums, you perhaps don’t necessarily also think of vast acres of gardens to explore. They’re typically contained within buildings – albeit with the occasional courtyard. But the Natural History Museum (fittingly, because, y’know natural and nature) does in fact boast an incredible selection of gardens to explore. And this year, they’ve given their Natural History Museum gardens a big ol’ dino-centric makeover; unveiling their brand new bronze Diplodocus statue today (July 16).
Opening to the public this week on July 18, the Museum’s gardens have been transformed into a place to rest, picnic, and learn – all at once. As well as a gorgeous spot, it will also act as a living laboratory for the museum’s research. Museum scientists and volunteers can use the gardens to study “best practices to protect and enhance urban nature”.
Today, the museum has revealed that the centrepiece of the Jurassic landscape will be the bronze diplodocus named ‘Fern’ (which was named by local schoolchildren).
And remember the best part – it’s free to visit!
What’s changed in the Natural History Museum gardens?
The most exciting new change to the garden is that arrival of a bronze cast of the Musuem’s much-loved Diplodocus. This stunning sight will take centre stage in the Jurassic garden. To complement the new dino arrival, the garden is also “filled with Wollemi pines, dwarf ginkgos and cycads – flora all chosen to evoke the feel of a landscape in the Jurassic Period“.
Other new arrivals and additions include:
- The Evolution Garden, which traces “2.7 billion years of history… through an immersive timeline of plants, geology, and representations of reptiles, birds and mammals”
- A canyon of ancient stones that have been collected from across the UK
- The Nature Discovery Garden with different habitats showcasing the UK’s rich biodiversity – even in urban spaces
- A larger Wildlife Garden (which has doubled in size) and pond area (which has increased by 60%), to better support and monitor the animal and plant life diversity.
Said Dr Alex Burch, Director of Public Programmes:
“We cannot wait to welcome all visitors to our completely reimagined gardens this summer. This is the first time in 140 years that the gardens around our building have been completely transformed. Through two new outdoor galleries – complete with a new resident dinosaur – visitors will explore the incredible story of Earth, stretching back more than 2.7 billion years. The five acres of gardens provide a wildlife haven in the heart of London. They will be the perfect setting for people to connect with, learn about and cherish the nature to be found in our towns and cities.”
The Natural History Museum gardens will open to the public on July 18, 2024. Find them at Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 5BD. The nearest stations are South Kensington and Gloucester Road.
Find out more about the new gardens at the Natural History Museum here.