D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum
A free museum on the University of Dundee campus, showcasing a vast collection of animal specimens and the legacy of biologist D'Arcy Thompson.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Museum is open and free!
D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum
Best Time
Museum is open and free!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free museum on the University of Dundee campus, showcasing a vast collection of animal specimens and the legacy of biologist D'Arcy Thompson.
"A room packed with surprises, affording a lot of enjoyment for quite a long time."
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a penny! Perfect for budget travelers.
⏰ Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially outside summer. Fridays are often a good bet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Specimen Collection
Explore thousands of animal specimens, including skeletons and preserved creatures from around the globe.
Dodo Discovery
A fascinating find: half a dodo discovered in a box mislabeled as 'crocodile'.
Interactive Habitats
Engage with creative workshops that help you build habitats for museum creatures.
Foraminifera Spirals
Discover micro-organisms that inspired D'Arcy Thompson's mathematical approach to biology.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Limited Hours
A Treasure Trove of Specimens
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a penny! Perfect for budget travelers.
⏰ Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially outside summer. Fridays are often a good bet.
🔎 Scavenger Hunts Fun
Kids can enjoy activity sheets and scavenger hunts to make their visit more engaging.
🔬 Anatomy Class Venue
The museum is a unique spot for anatomy classes, surrounded by fascinating specimens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a penny! Perfect for budget travelers.
⏰ Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially outside summer. Fridays are often a good bet.
🔎 Scavenger Hunts Fun
Kids can enjoy activity sheets and scavenger hunts to make their visit more engaging.
🔬 Anatomy Class Venue
The museum is a unique spot for anatomy classes, surrounded by fascinating specimens.
💡 Inspiring Art & Science
See how scientific specimens inspire art, like public engagement posters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum for its extensive and fascinating collection of animal specimens, making it a highly recommended free attraction. While some note occasional off-topic signage, the overall experience is described as enjoyable and educational for all ages, with friendly staff enhancing the visit.
"Excellent museum but has lots of off topic signs about irrelevant topics. I'm here for the animals not to learn about tea plantations! The colonial context is important for the animals but it felt like they went off topic with lots of the info"
James Porter
"Extensive zoology collection for everyone who loves to see what animals and insects are made of. The guides were very friendly and visits to the museum are ticketed. Could spend about an hour here to view all the exhibits!"
Dennis Heng
"One of the loveliest museum I’ve ever visited, a great enjoyment, I warmly recommend visiting this amazing little place"
Noga Harel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the University of Dundee's campus, making it easily accessible. If you're in Zurich, the Polybahn funicular is a fun way to get close!
As it's on a university campus, parking might be limited. Public transport or walking is recommended if you're in Dundee.
Absolutely! The D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum is open to the public, often with free admission.
Many visitors enjoy a 'Dundee day' exploring various attractions. The museum is a great addition to a city break.
Dundee has a vibrant cultural scene with other museums and galleries worth exploring alongside the D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Good news! Many visitors report that entry to the D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum is free. Always check their official website for the most current information.
Opening hours can vary, with some sources mentioning Friday afternoons as a key time. It's best to confirm specific times before your visit, especially outside of peak season.
While some sources highlight Friday openings, weekend hours might be less consistent. Checking the university's museum schedule is advised.
Yes! The museum hosts creative workshops, like 'Happy Habitats,' which require booking via Eventbrite.
The museum has been open during the UofD Science Festival, offering a great opportunity for families to explore. [^Review]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a vast collection of animal specimens, including skeletons, preserved creatures, and detailed displays covering various species.
Absolutely! Kids are often fascinated by the specimens and can enjoy scavenger hunts and activity sheets. [^Review]
Most visitors can comfortably spend about an hour exploring all the exhibits. [^Review]
Yes, the museum offers interactive workshops and activities, like creating creature habitats.
Sir D'Arcy Wentworth Thompson was the first Professor of Biology at Dundee and his work inspired the museum's collection and focus on applying mathematics to biology.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on display.
The diverse range of specimens, from large skeletons to intricate micro-organisms, offers many unique photo opportunities.
The museum utilizes advanced equipment like the Artec Spider 3D for detailed 3D scanning of specimens.
While not explicitly stated, it's common museum etiquette to avoid flash photography to protect delicate exhibits.
Look for the unique skeletons, preserved creatures, and the detailed micro-organisms that inspire awe and make for great social media content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for interactive workshops and scavenger hunts designed to keep younger visitors engaged. These activities transform the visit into a fun, educational adventure, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
[^Review]💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free attractions in Dundee or pack a picnic to keep costs down. It's an excellent way to experience a significant cultural institution without breaking the bank.
🔬 Science Enthusiasts
+1Explore the unique specimens, learn about D'Arcy Thompson's groundbreaking work, and appreciate the ongoing efforts in specimen preservation. It's a place where scientific curiosity is truly rewarded.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of D'Arcy Thompson
+1His fascination with the natural world, particularly the application of mathematics to biology, is evident throughout the museum's collection. The exhibits often highlight the elegant mathematical patterns found in nature, from the spirals of micro-organisms to the growth of shells. This unique perspective sets the museum apart, offering a blend of scientific observation and mathematical insight.
Visitors can learn about Thompson's legacy through various displays and even special events. The museum actively engages with his ideas, making it a place not just to see specimens, but to understand the scientific thought processes that connect them.
A Cabinet of Curiosities
+1Many of these specimens were collected by D'Arcy Thompson himself, offering a direct link to his extensive research and passion for zoology. The museum also houses fascinating finds, like the notable half dodo skeleton, discovered in an unexpected place.
Beyond the static displays, the museum occasionally hosts fluid preservation sessions, ensuring the long-term care of its delicate wet specimens. This dedication to conservation means the collection remains a vital resource for study and public appreciation.
Engaging the Community
+1These events often involve collaborations with artists and educators, like illustrator Cara Rooney, who designed activity sheets for scavenger hunts within the museum.
Such hands-on activities are particularly beneficial for families with children, turning a museum visit into an interactive learning adventure. [^Review] The museum also participates in broader university events, such as the UofD Science Festival, opening its doors to the public for special exploration days. This commitment to outreach ensures the museum remains a vibrant hub for learning and discovery. [^Review]
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit