My visit to the Natural History Museum was to put my wide angle lens to some use and I didn’t have much to do on a cold rainy day. What turned out was a complete jaw dropping picture day of the iconic, well preserved Romanesque building of London.
The Museum opened to public in April 1881. Architecture was by Alfred Waterhouse who used terracotta to brave inclement English weather.
The use of terracotta came as a surprise when this was built as it was an inexpensive construction material used for only cheap Victorian towns. However today this is one of the most imposing and beautiful buildings of England. The hues of blue and cream make a very subtle combination which is enhanced with detailing on the beams and arches.
A 25.2 m long Blue Whale skeleton hangs in the center of the Museum. This replaces the giant Diplodocus’s (lovingly called Dippy) skeleton which proudly was housed for a long 100 years.
As its a large museum of Natural History, it has several sections dedicated to whales, aquatic plants and animals, fossils, many exhibits which would be of educative interest to children. There is a Darwin center which would take you through several stories of evolution of earth and its beings.
Admission to the museum is Free. yayaya! Specific exhibitions may be charged.Nearest tube station is South Kensington. Follow the signs for exit to Natural History Museum.
Natural History Museum is the finest monument in London. You will be more stunned by the grand architecture than the collection of fossils here. Absolutely a Must Visit.
