8 very Unusual free attractions in London

Discover the Bizarre: The Jar of Moles at the Grant Museum of Zoology! 🏛️🔍

Let me take you on a wild tour of the Grant Museum of Zoology—a hidden gem nestled in the heart of London. 🏛️🔍

Grant Museum of Zoology: Where Curiosity Meets Creatures

Origins and Purpose:
- Founded in 1827 by Robert Edmond Grant, this museum started as a teaching collection for the University of London (now known as University College London).
- Today, it’s a treasure trove for both students and curious visitors.
What Awaits You:
- Natural History Collection: The museum spans the entire Animal Kingdom, housing around 67,000 specimens.
- Skeletons, Specimens, and Stuffed Animals: Imagine cases filled with these wonders. From delicate skeletons to preserved creatures, it’s a zoological wonderland.
Rare and Extinct Specimens:
- Look out for:
  - The Quagga: The skeleton of an extinct South African zebra. Only seven exist worldwide, making this one the rarest.
  - Dodo Bones: Yes, the legendary flightless bird that vanished from Mauritius.
  - Thylacine Specimens: This dog-like marsupial went extinct in the 1930s.
Models and Artifacts:
- Admire Blaschka glass models capturing intricate marine invertebrates like jellyfish.
- Explore a world of models and artifacts that bridge science and art.
Practical Details:
- Free Admission: No need to book in advance. Just show up during opening hours.
- Location: Find it in the Rockefeller Building at University College London in Bloomsbury.
- Opening Times:
  - Tuesday to Friday: 1pm to 5pm
  - Saturday: 11am to 5pm
Getting There:
- Tube Stations: Warren Street, Euston Square, and Goodge Street—all within a five-minute walk.
- Address: 21 University Street, London, WC1E 6DE.

So, whether you’re a zoology enthusiast, an art lover, or just curious about the animal kingdom, the Grant Museum invites you to explore its fascinating world. 🌟🐾

Learn more about the Moles in our Specimen of the Week blog post and check out an interview with the Jar of Moles. Happy exploring!

Prepare for Aviation Awesomeness: Explore the Imperial War Museum! 🛩️🚀

Imagine stepping into a world where history meets high-flying machines. At the Imperial War Museum, you’ll find more than dusty relics—it’s a turbo-charged adventure. Buckle up:

Spitfire Fever:
- The Spitfire, that iconic British fighter plane, takes center stage. Imagine its elliptical wings, that Rolls Royce engine purring, and the sky as its playground.
- Evolution of an Icon: From 27 December 2021 to 20 February 2022, the museum hosts the Spitfire: Evolution of an Icon exhibition. Twelve Spitfires, different marks, all in one place. Free with museum entry!
- Battle of Britain Vibes: These warbirds ruled the skies during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Now, they’re back, showing off their wartime evolution.
Harrier Jet Thrills:
- Ever seen a Harrier fighter jet up close? Buckle your seatbelt! These vertical takeoff marvels defy gravity.
- Imagine the roar as a Harrier lifts off. It’s like a symphony of power and precision.
More Than Metal:
- Beyond planes, explore tanks, rockets, and artifacts that tell tales of courage and conflict.
- Witnesses to War: Each exhibit whispers stories of sacrifice, resilience, and the human spirit.
Practical Details:
- Location: The museum is in London, near Lambeth Road.
- Opening Times:
  - Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
  - Closed on Mondays (unless it’s a bank holiday)
- Admission: Free, but donations are welcome.
Family Fun:
- Spitfire Engineers: Winter 2021 brings family activities. Design your own Spitfire, learn about its engineering, and feel the forces of flight. Hands-on fun for all ages!

So, whether you’re an aviation buff, a history enthusiast, or just curious about the machines that shaped our world, the Imperial War Museum awaits. Ready for takeoff? 🚁🌟

Meet the Overstuffed Walrus: A Quirky Icon at the Horniman Museum! 🌟🐾

Imagine stumbling upon a walrus that defies all expectations. At the Horniman Museum, you’ll find just that—a walrus that’s more than meets the eye. Let’s dive into this curious tale:

The Walrus’s Origins:
- Over a century ago, our walrus arrived at the museum. But here’s the twist: Victorian taxidermists didn’t quite grasp walrus fashion.
- Instead of wrinkles and folds, they went all out—overstuffing our marine friend. The result? A walrus that’s both gigantic and wrinkle-free.
Forest Hill’s Mascot:
- Our overstuffed walrus has become a Forest Hill mascot. Visitors adore its quirky charm.
- Picture it: sitting smack in the middle of the Natural History Gallery, surrounded by other wonders.
Temporary Farewell:
- Brace yourself—the walrus is taking a hiatus. The Natural History Gallery is undergoing a two-year renovation as part of the Nature + Love project.
- Starting from 4 March 2024, the walrus won’t be on display. But fear not—it’ll return in 2026.
What’s Next?:
- When the gallery reopens, our beloved specimen will reclaim its central spot.
- The refurbished gallery will focus on human impact on the planet. Expect thought-provoking displays.

So, if you’re up for a walrus-sized adventure, visit the Horniman Museum. It’s where history, quirkiness, and environmental awareness collide! 🌿🐋

The Horniman Museum and Gardens in London offers a mix of free and ticketed experiences. Here’s the scoop:

Free to Enter:
- You can explore the main museum without needing a ticket. Wander through its fascinating exhibits, soak in the history, and enjoy the natural wonders.
- No need to pay for general entry—it’s on the house!
Ticketed Attractions:
- While the museum itself is free, there are specific areas that require tickets:
  - Aquarium: Dive into an underwater world for a fee.
  - Butterfly House: Flutter among tropical butterflies in this enchanting space.
  - Dinosaur rEvolution: Unearth prehistoric giants and their fascinating stories.
Booking in Advance:
- To guarantee entry to the Aquarium, Butterfly House, or Dinosaur rEvolution, it’s best to book tickets ahead of time.
- During busy periods, advance booking helps you skip the queues and dive right into the experience.

Step into Prehistory: Crystal Palace Dinosaurs! 🦕🌿

Imagine a time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth, and science was just finding its feet. At Crystal Palace Park, you’ll encounter the world’s oldest dinosaur sculptures—a blend of art, science, and Victorian wonder. Let’s dive in:

The Geological Court:
- These sculptures were born in the 1850s, a time of curiosity and discovery.
- Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins, the sculptor, brought dinosaurs to life under the guidance of Sir Richard Owen, a renowned anatomist and paleontologist.
- The result? Life-sized models of extinct animals, inaccuracies, and all.
The Lineup:
- Iguanodon, Megalosaurus, and Hylaeosaurus—the pioneers of dino art.
- These sculptures represent the cutting edge of 19th-century paleontology.
- Their charm lies in their quirks—the result of imperfect fossils and nascent science.
Temporary Farewell:
- The Geological Court is undergoing renovation, but fear not—the dinosaurs will return in 2026.
- Until then, they rest, a testament to Victorian imagination and early scientific leaps.

Visiting the Crystal Palace Dinosaurs is absolutely free of charge! 🦕🌿

These ancient sculptures, nestled in the heart of Crystal Palace Park, await your curious gaze. Whether you’re a dino enthusiast or simply seeking a prehistoric adventure, you won’t need to reach for your wallet. So, wander among the giants, imagine their roars, and embrace the wonder of these timeless creatures. 🌟🔍

So, wander through Crystal Palace Park, spot the ancient giants, and marvel at how far we’ve come. 🌟🦖

Explore the Intersection of Art, Health, and Science at Science Gallery London! 🎨🌿🔬

Step into a dynamic space where creativity, well-being, and scientific inquiry collide. At Science Gallery London, you’ll encounter exhibitions that defy boundaries. Let’s dive in:

Art Meets Science:
- These exhibitions span the spectrum—from thought-provoking art installations to cutting-edge health research.
- Imagine interactive displays, thought experiments, and immersive experiences.
Health and Well-Being:
- Dive into topics like mental health, medical breakthroughs, and holistic wellness.
- Explore how art and science intersect to shape our understanding of well-being.
Community Hub:
- Science Gallery London isn’t just a museum—it’s a hub for dialogue, creativity, and community engagement.
- Attend talks, workshops, and events that spark curiosity and foster connections.
Free Admission:
- With the exception of our ticketed partnership with LIFT 2024 for Bat Night Market, entry to all exhibitions and events is free.
- So, come with an open mind and explore the fascinating blend of art, health, and science.

Discover Health and Medicine: Wellcome Collection Awaits! 🌿🔬

Imagine stepping into a space where science, medicine, and art converge. At the Wellcome Collection, you’ll encounter exhibitions that unravel the mysteries of health and human experience. Let’s dive in:

Exploring Connections:
- Our permanent and temporary exhibitions bridge the gap between science, medicine, life, and creativity.
- Admission is always free, so come with an open mind and explore!
Current Exhibitions:
- Jason and the Adventure of 254: A captivating journey awaits from 21 March 2024 to 12 January 2025.
- Being Human: A permanent exhibition that delves into our existence.
Past Gems:
- Take a peek at our previous exhibitions and installations:
  - Medicine Man
  - The Cult of Beauty
  - Genetic Automata
  - Milk
  - And more!
Stay in the Know:
- Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on what’s happening, read our latest stories, and get involved.
- Admission is free, but the experience is priceless.

So, whether you’re a curious mind or a health enthusiast, the Wellcome Collection invites you to explore the wonders of our shared human journey. 🌟🏛️

Embark on a Wizarding Adventure: Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Awaits! 🚂🌟

Imagine standing at the bustling King’s Cross Station, where reality and magic intertwine. As any true Harry Potter fan knows, this is where Hogwarts students catch the Hogwarts Express. But how do they reach Platform 9¾? Let’s dive into the enchantment:

The Magical Gateway:
- In the wizarding world, students dash through a brick wall between platforms 9 and 10 to reach Platform 9¾.
- In our Muggle reality, King’s Cross platforms 9 and 10 are separated by tracks. But fear not—the magic lives on!
The Iconic Trolley:
- Look out for a luggage trolley embedded in the wall. It’s your ticket to Hogwarts!
- Make-believe that you’re off to start your magical school journey. Pose for a photo by the trolley—it’s accessible at all hours.
The Harry Potter Shop:
- Next door, you’ll find the Harry Potter shop. Styled like Ollivander’s wand emporium, it’s a treasure trove for fans.
- From time turners to Hogwarts school jumpers, immerse yourself in wizarding wonders.
Why King’s Cross?:
- J.K. Rowling chose King’s Cross as the station for students to board the Hogwarts Express for a romantic reason—it’s where her parents first met on a train to Scotland departing from King’s Cross.

So, channel your inner wizard, push that trolley, and let the magic unfold. Visit King’s Cross Station and relive the enchantment of Harry Potter’s world! 🌟🚉

Discover the Isokon Building’s Remarkable Legacy: Isokon Gallery Awaits! 🏢🌟

Imagine stepping into a space where architectural innovation, artistic brilliance, and historical intrigue converge. At the Isokon Gallery, you’ll delve into the lives of celebrated residents who once called the Isokon Building home. Let’s explore:

The Isokon Building:
- Designed by Canadian engineer Wells Coates, the Isokon Flats—also known as Lawn Road Flats—pioneered minimalist urban living in Britain.
- Its compact “Existenzminimum” flats featured communal kitchens, shared services, and a vibrant social hub.
Famous Residents:
- Walter Gropius, founder of the Bauhaus, left his mark here.
- Marcel Breuer, designer of modernist furniture, also called Isokon home.
- Agatha Christie penned her mysteries within these walls (1941–1947).
- László Moholy-Nagy, art educator at the Bauhaus, added to the creative mix.
- Egon Riss, Arthur Korn, and other luminaries contributed to the building’s intellectual buzz.
Espionage and Intrigue:
- Isokon wasn’t just about art and architecture—it housed spies too.
- Dr. Arnold Deutsch, the NKVD agent who recruited the infamous Cambridge Five, resided here.
- Soviet spy Jürgen Kuczynski taught economics while calling Isokon home.
The Isokon Gallery:
- Located in the former garage, the gallery tells this remarkable story.
- Explore original artifacts, texts from experts, and even a recreated original bathroom and kitchen.
- It’s free to enter and relies on donations to preserve this slice of history.

So, step into the Isokon Gallery and unravel the threads that connect architecture, creativity, and espionage. 🌟🔍