Natural History Museum Tring
Explore Lord Rothschild's vast collection of taxidermied animals and insects, a Victorian treasure trove of natural history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Natural History Museum Tring
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Lord Rothschild's vast collection of taxidermied animals and insects, a Victorian treasure trove of natural history.
"A fascinating and educational experience, especially for families, with a truly unique collection."
🎯 Book Free Tickets Online
Essential for guaranteed entry, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring multiple galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lord Rothschild's Grand Collection
Main Galleries
Explore thousands of taxidermied animals and insects, a testament to Victorian natural history collecting.
+1
Giant Squid 'Archie'
Marine Life Exhibit
Marvel at the impressive 8-meter-long giant squid, a truly awe-inspiring specimen.
Extinct and Rare Species
Various Galleries
See creatures that are now extinct or critically endangered, offering a poignant look at biodiversity loss.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Free Tickets in Advance
+2Embrace the Taxidermy Experience
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Free Tickets Online
Essential for guaranteed entry, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring multiple galleries.
📸 Capture the Scale
Get up close to appreciate the true size of the animals.
💰 Donate to Support
Entry is free, but donations help preserve this amazing collection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Free Tickets Online
Essential for guaranteed entry, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring multiple galleries.
📸 Capture the Scale
Get up close to appreciate the true size of the animals.
💰 Donate to Support
Entry is free, but donations help preserve this amazing collection.
☕ Cafe & Play Area
Enjoy refreshments and a small play area for kids on site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Natural History Museum Tring for its extensive and fascinating collection of taxidermied animals, offering a unique glimpse into biodiversity. The free entry is a major draw, making it an accessible and educational outing for families and individuals alike. While some find the taxidermy a bit somber, most appreciate the scale and historical significance of Lord Rothschild's legacy. +1
"The Natural History Museum at Tring, once the private collection of the eccentric Walter Rothschild, is now home to one of the UK’s most extensive displays of taxidermied animals - over 4,900 specimens, including rare and extinct species. Walking through the galleries was a strange mix of awe and sadness. On one hand, it was fascinating to see creatures I’ll never encounter in the wild. But at the same time, seeing so many stuffed animals, especially knowing the context of mass collecting in that era, made me pause. It stirred questions about how we preserve nature, what we’ve lost, and what it means to display these lives frozen in time. The museum itself is full of curiosities - hybrids, animals with unusual colouration, and six themed galleries to explore. It’s popular with families, which means it can be a bit chaotic if you’re hoping for quiet reflection or photos. Still, entry is free, and despite the emotional complexity of the visit, I left feeling grateful for the chance to witness such a unique collection. It definitely gave me a lot to think about."
Aleks Baranska
"Set over three floors, this place is packed with animals and birds from all round the world. Very well presented and helpful staff. Allow several hours to have a good look.
There is a good cafe and plenty of seating. A small kids play area is located in the grounds."
Mike G0HWK
"An impromptu visit for a rainy day! We did not queue for long but was recommended by staff to book in future - the footfall was very busy so I understand why. An interesting museum with plenty to see. Clearly appealing for children but also very enjoyable for adults too. A small gift shop with a lovely offering. Will certainly return."
Sarah Franco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Tring, Hertfordshire. You can reach it by car via the A41. There is free parking nearby. If arriving by train, Tring station is a short taxi or bus ride away. Some visitors have used it as a day trip from Luton Airport.
Yes, parking is available nearby and is free.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip from London, easily accessible by car or train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, general admission to the Natural History Museum Tring is free. However, booking a timed ticket online in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry.
While not always mandatory, booking free timed tickets online is strongly advised to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times.
The museum typically operates in timed slots, often with a 90-minute duration. It's best to check their official website for the most current opening hours and slot availability.
Donations are very welcome and help support the museum's collections and operations. You can donate online or in person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's renowned for housing Lord Rothschild's vast collection of taxidermied animals and insects, including many rare and extinct species.
Yes, it's very popular with families. Kids are often amazed by the sheer number and scale of the animals.
You'll find a huge variety, from mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects to marine life like the famous giant squid 'Archie'.
The museum is generally accessible, with lifts available to all floors.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on the day of your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering refreshments and food.
While there's a cafe, it's often possible to bring your own snacks, especially if you plan to use the outdoor seating areas or nearby Tring Park.
📸 📸 Photography
The sheer scale of the taxidermied animals, especially larger specimens like whales and elephants, makes for striking photos. The intricate details of smaller insects and birds are also captivating.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect the specimens. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Kids can marvel at the size of elephants and giraffes, and discover creatures they've only read about. The museum often has kid-friendly exhibits and a small outdoor play area to keep them entertained. Pro-tip: Book your free timed tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends. Consider bringing snacks for the kids, as while there's a cafe, a picnic can be a good option.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+2 While there's no admission fee, consider making a donation to support the museum's vital work. It's a fantastic way to experience a significant collection without spending a fortune. Save money: Pack your own lunch and enjoy it in the nearby Tring Park, or utilize the museum's cafe for more affordable options. Free parking nearby also helps keep costs down.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The scale of the larger animals, the intricate details of birds and insects, and the atmospheric Victorian galleries provide a rich visual landscape. You can experiment with capturing the texture and form of the specimens, as well as the overall grandeur of the collection. Photography tips: While personal photography is generally allowed, avoid flash to protect the delicate specimens.
Look for interesting angles and lighting to bring out the character of each exhibit. The museum's layout allows for close-up shots, so don't be afraid to get detailed. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Lord Rothschild
+1 His passion for collecting, though reflecting the practices of his era, has left an unparalleled legacy for scientific study and public education.Visitors can still feel the Victorian charm of the original building, with its grand galleries and meticulously preserved specimens. The collection includes not only common species but also rare and extinct animals, offering a unique glimpse into the Earth's biodiversity throughout history.
The sheer volume and variety are astounding, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history. While the collection is a marvel, it also prompts reflection on the history of collecting and conservation. The taxidermy, while expertly preserved, can evoke a sense of melancholy for some, as it represents lives lost.
Exploring the Taxidermy Collection
+1 These exhibits are meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate the true scale and detail of creatures from around the globe. From the majestic to the minuscule, the collection spans a vast array of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Highlights include impressive displays of large mammals, such as elephants and giraffes, which give a powerful sense of their size.
+1 You can also find rare and extinct species, offering a poignant reminder of what has been lost to time. The marine life exhibit is particularly notable, featuring the impressive 8-meter-long giant squid, Archie. While the taxidermy is a primary draw, it's worth noting that some visitors find the displays a bit unsettling or sad due to the nature of taxidermy.
+1Family Fun and Educational Value
+2 The interactive exhibits and the ability to get up close to the specimens make learning about habitats and biodiversity an engaging experience for young minds. Beyond the main galleries, the museum often hosts special events and activities for children, such as 'DinoSnores for Grown-Ups' (though this is more for the London branch, Tring often has kid-focused events).
Parents and educators appreciate the free admission, making it an accessible outing for many.
+1 The museum provides a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about the natural world, conservation, and the importance of biodiversity in a visually stimulating environment. 
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