Oxford University Museum of Natural History

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History houses the University's scientific collections of zoological, entomological, geological, palaeontological and mineralogical specimens, accumulated in the course of the last three centuries. The exhibits occupy a large centre court with its elegant cast iron columns supporting the great glass roof, and surrounded on four sides by upper and lower arcades. They are devoted to the history and diversity of life on Earth and the rocks and minerals that form it.

What is not on public display are huge reserve collections that are used for research and teaching. These are organised into five Collections: Entomological, Geological, Mineralogical, Palaeontological and Zoological, each one cared for by a Curator and Assistant Curator.

The entire collection of this museum is a Designated Collection of national importance.

Additional info

Parking: There is no public parking available at the Museum, although coaches for visiting groups are usually able to drop off in Parks Road outside the Museum. There is a limited amount of pay-and-display parking in Keble Road and St Giles. Oxford has four park-and-ride car parks on the Ring Road, with regular bus services to the city centre.

Disabled access: The Museum has separate wheelchair access at the north-west door. Unfortunately the gallery is not accessible to wheelchair users.

Organised parties: The Museum welcomes organised school and other parties. Please see the Education Services page for more details.

Drawing and painting in the Museum: The floors and walls of the Museum are unsealed, porous stone. They can be easily damaged by the spillage of artists' materials. Therefore artists may draw in the Museum using graphite pencils only.

Photography: Visitors are welcome to take photographs for their personal use. Professional photography may be arranged, in advance, with the Museum Administrator.

Food: There are no restaurant facilities at the Museum; there are many cafes and restaurants within a few minutes walk of the Museum in the city centre. Picnic lunches can be eaten on the Museum lawn and in the nearby University Parks in fine weather.