Horniman Museum and Gardens
100 London Road SE23 3PQ
The Museum is open daily, from 10am - 5.30pm. The Butterfly House is open from 10.30am - 4pm.
Train: Forest Hill
2 - 3 hours
0 - 12 years
Wheelchair friendly with accessible toilets
FREE entry excluding Aquarium, Butterfly House, Robot Zoo and some events.
Based on 8 reviews
This is a hidden gem, when compared to other large museums in London, but it's outside of central London so you'll either need to take a bus or the overground to get there. It's well-worth visiting. It's a relatively compact museum that's perfectly sized for kids to enjoy. There are fun curiosities, such as the giant stuffed walrus which is a must see. There are also a butterfly garden (which isn't free) and an animal walk. There's a great environmental education programme that hosts activities for young visitors and outside there are beautiful gardens to explore. It's a fantastic museum. Recommend.
Great day out; plenty to do for all interests.
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About Horniman Museum and Gardens
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a free South London gem packed with quirky exhibits, musical instruments, animals, and outdoor fun. With trails, workshops, and amazing views, it’s perfect for curious kids, nature-loving teens, and parents needing coffee and calm. A top pick for a relaxed family day out.
Top tip from the KidRated team:
Don’t miss the Bandstand kiosk if the café queue is too long – the ice cream is spot on and perfect for bribery.
Quick Inspiration
There’s a huge walrus, hands-on musical instruments, colourful cultural exhibits, and taxidermy animals galore. Plus, the aquarium and Butterfly House (extra fee) are a big hit with little nature fans.
Yes! Entry to the main museum and gardens is totally free. The aquarium and Butterfly House have a small entry fee, but still great value.
Absolutely. From nature trails to hands-on art workshops, plus pop-ups like the Llama Library and robotics activities during school holidays – there’s always something going on.
Yes. The quirky exhibits, musical instruments, interactive workshops and Insta-worthy views make it surprisingly cool. It’s low-key educational in the best way.
Yes. There are plenty of picnic spots in the gardens. Just no food inside the galleries, unless you like feeding the moths.
2–3 hours for the free bits. Add an hour or more if you’re doing the aquarium, Butterfly House, or joining a workshop.
Yes. There’s step-free access, lifts inside, and accessible toilets. The gardens have some hilly bits, but nothing too wild.
Yes. The Animal Walk features alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens and more. It’s great for younger kids and totally free.
It’s in Forest Hill, South London. Super easy to reach via Overground or trains from London Bridge.
Yes. The café serves hot meals, snacks and drinks. Or hit the kiosk near the Bandstand for grab-and-go treats and less waiting around.
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I liked the World Gallery and the fish on the floor inside. They had lots of strange and interesting stuffed animals. The cafe is always a bit busy but they have lots of space outside to play. Maysie Nguyen Matthews (Aged 7)