History of Science Museum
With a National Art Pass you get
Explore an unrivalled collection of early scientific instruments in the world's oldest surviving purpose-built museum building, the Old Ashmolean in Oxford.
A must-visit for anyone curious about humanity's quest for knowledge, the History of Science Museum, with its vast collection and interactive exhibits, provides a stimulating experience for visitors of all ages.
A story of innovation
The History of Science Museum houses a truly remarkable collection of artefacts that chronicle humanity's journey in science. Covering subjects such as astronomy and timekeeping with watches and early telescopes, to telecommunications, medicine to paintings and photographs scientists, engineers and inventors. The museum also boasts a significant collection of instruments from the Islamic world, and for those interested in more recent advancements, the museum has the iconic blackboards used by Albert Einstein.
Lyra's alethiometer
The museum was instigated by Lewis Evans’ collection of astrolabes and sundials, some of which were once owned by historical figures like Queen Elizabeth I. These dials are believed to have inspired Philip Pullman to create Lyra's alethiometer and the museum celebrates this with Lyra’s Worlds where you can find props and costumes from the TV series.
Digital collection
Unsurprisingly, the museum was an early adopter of digitising its collection, starting the process in the late 1990s. Today you can search over 33,000 objects and manuscripts at their Collections Online site.
A hub for learning
The museum offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with scientific concepts in a hands-on way. There are also captivating temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes, from the rise of AI to the development of life-saving antibiotics.
Visitor information
Address
Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 3AZ
01865 277293
Opening times
Tuesday - Sunday, 12-5pm
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.