Getting ready for your school visit

Welcome to the Museum, where you and your class can explore the wonders of nature and discover the stories behind our amazing collections.

We have range of gallery guides you can print off and use with your groups. You can reserve a lunch space with your booking.

Have you booked?

All school visits must be booked. For more information, see essential booking information for educators.

On the day
Our galleries

On the day

Parking for coaches

There are a limited number of stopping spaces for coaches in two locations - Queen's Gate and Cromwell Road. Coaches can stop for a maximum of 15 minutes to drop off and collect passengers.

We kindly remind coach parties and drivers that leaving an engine idling when stationary is an offence and may be subject to a fine by the local council. Out of respect for our neighbours and to reduce the carbon footprint in our surrounding area, please help us avoid any unnecessary pollution.

Where to go when you arrive

All school groups should use the entrance on Exhibition Road. (Visit the Getting here page to see its location.)

A staff member can direct you to School Reception on the lower ground floor of the Green Zone, where you can check in and use the toilet facilities.

Cloakroom spaces are very limited and cannot be guaranteed. Our team will always do their best to accommodate groups, but we would strongly recommend bringing as little as possible with you in case capacity is full.

If you have booked an activity, please allow sufficient time (at least 20 minutes) to register and get to the activity location.

Eating

A lunch space for the indoor picnic area can be reserved when you book. These are for 30 minutes at a set time between 11.00 and 13.30. This is subject to availability.

You can bring your own food or buy sandwiches, soft drinks, tea and coffee from our cafes.

Supervision guidelines

Minimum adult to pupil ratios, risk assesments and the code of conduct can be viewed on the essential information page.

Need to cancel a visit?

If you have booked a school activity and need to cancel, email our bookings team. They will provide a confirmation email. Please read our payment and cancellation conditions for charged-for school activities.