Horniman Museum and Gardens
With a National Art Pass you get
Find out more
Founded in 1901, the Horniman Museum and Gardens in south London houses nationally regarded collections of anthropology, natural history and musical instruments, as well as an aquarium.
With over 16 acres of landscaped gardens offering dramatic views of London, and a year-round programme of exhibitions, activities and events, the Horniman offers visitors of all ages an inspiring window on the world.
The Horniman is London’s only museum where environment, ecology and human cultures can be seen side by side at a global scale. Alongside the idyllic oasis of gardens, the museum's eclectic collection of over 350,000 objects spans anthropology, natural history, musical instruments and an aquarium.
In April 2015, the museum ran a highly successful Art Happens crowdfunding campaign to fund an exhibition of Mark Fairington's paintings, alongside the hidden specimens that inspired them. And during 2021, the museum began an online club of Environment Champions, created a micro-forest to combat severe local air pollution; and launched the 696 Programme – an investigation into the responsibility of public organisations to support local music.
The Horniman is dedicated to providing a creative hub for the local south London community, and particularly encourages young people to connect with art and museums – from implementing a thriving youth panel to offering work experience and apprenticeship opportunities, the museum is constantly inspiring the next generation.
Why you should go
Diverse collection of objects from around the world
Educational programs for people of all ages
Set in 16 acres of gardens, including a tropical butterfly house and animal enclosures
Visitor information
Address
100 London Road, Forest Hill, London, Greater London, SE23 3PQ
020 8699 1872
Opening times
Museum and Cafe:
10am – 5.30pm
Closed 24 – 26 Dec
Gardens:
Mon-Sat 7.15am – sunset
Sun and Bank Holidays 8am – sunset
Closed 25 Dec
Exclusions and safety measures
The majority of the Horniman is free to enter but you must have a ticket to visit the Aquarium and Butterfly House. Find out more about planning your visit.
Your ticket is valid only for the date and time you choose.
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.