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Ticket comparison

Natural History Museum: which ticket to pick

While general admission to the museum is free, these curated options offer structured storytelling, expert insights, and combined access to neighboring attractions to help navigate the vast collections.

Prices verified: 6 May 2026Mid season

Our recommendation

For most visitors, a highlights tour is the best way to see the museum's 80 million specimens without feeling overwhelmed. Families should opt for themed dinosaur tours, while power-sightseers will find the best value in a multi-site city pass.

  • First-time visitor wanting the 'best of'A professional guide ensures you see Hintze Hall and the most famous fossils in a concise timeframe.
  • Traveling with kidsThis tour focuses specifically on the dinosaur galleries with storytelling designed for younger audiences.
  • Visiting multiple London landmarksThe London Pass covers dozens of attractions, making it the most cost-effective choice for a full itinerary.

Official price and partners

General admission is free but requires a pre-booked timed slot which often sells out. Paid tours offer guaranteed entry and expert insights not available with the free ticket.

Entrance tip

Use the Exhibition Road entrance to avoid the typically longer queues at the main Cromwell Road entrance.

Compare options

GetYourGuide
from £75Free cancellation
  • Guided Tour
  • Private Experience
  • Family Focus
  • Science Museum Combo
  • Multi-Attraction Pass
Book via GetYourGuide

Headout
from £32Best price
  • Guided Tour
  • Private Experience
  • Family Focus
  • Science Museum Combo
  • Multi-Attraction Pass
Book via Headout

Viator
from £155Reserve now, pay later
  • Guided Tour
  • Private Experience
  • Family Focus
  • Science Museum Combo
  • Multi-Attraction Pass
Book via Viator

Viator
Reserve now, pay later
  • Guided Tour
  • Private Experience
  • Family Focus
  • Science Museum Combo
  • Multi-Attraction Pass
Book via Viator

Choose by your situation

You want to see the Science Museum too
Science Museum Combo Tour
You prefer a personalized, scholarly pace
Private Expert Tour
You only have 90 minutes for the museum
Highlights Guided Tour
You are on a strict budget
Free General Admission (Not listed)

What is often not included

  • General admission is free; you are paying specifically for the guide's expertise and tour organization.
  • Special temporary exhibitions (like Wildlife Photographer of the Year) usually require a separate paid ticket.
  • Food and drink at the museum cafes are priced at a premium compared to nearby South Kensington eateries.

Discounts and free entry

Entry is free for all, but booking a timed-entry slot online is mandatory. Some special exhibitions require a separate paid ticket.

Frequently asked questions

  • Is general entry to the museum free?

    Yes, entry to the permanent collections is free, but you must often book a timed entry slot on the official website even if you don't buy a tour.

  • Do I need to print my tour voucher?

    Most providers, including Tiqets and GetYourGuide, accept mobile vouchers on your smartphone.

  • What is the cancellation policy for these tours?

    Most guided tours offer a full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

  • Are these tours accessible for wheelchairs?

    The Natural History Museum is fully accessible, though you should notify your tour provider in advance to ensure the route is optimized.

← Read the full Natural History Museum guide

Our pickfrom £35