Natural History Museum at Tring
Discover a world of wonder at Tring Natural History Museum!
This family-friendly destination is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and curious minds alike. It features over 4900 specimens of natural history, across 5 galleries, which includes everything from bugs and butterflies to an extinct giant sloth (and pretty much everything in between)! The museum also has a gallery featuring temporary exhibits that change throughout the year.
A smaller sister to the main museum in London, the Natural History Museum located in Tring, Hertfordshire is the perfect place to explore fascinating exhibits, meet fascinating creatures, and embark on a journey of discovery.
Find out all you need to know to plan your own visit to the Natural History Museum right here.
About Tring Natural History Museum
Tring Natural History Museum remains dedicated to its original mission of conservation and education. The museum houses a vast and diverse collection of natural history specimens, encompassing mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates from around the globe.
Through its extensive collections and engaging exhibits, the museum aims to inspire curiosity, foster a love for nature, and promote understanding of the natural world.
The History of Natural History
Tring Natural History Museum, nestled within the picturesque Chiltern Hills, boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Founded by Lionel Walter, 2nd Baron Rothschild, as a personal collection, the museum's origins lie in the passion and dedication of a young boy who, at the tender age of seven, expressed his desire to "make a museum."
Built in 1889 as a 21st birthday gift for the Baron, the museum's impressive building stands as a testament to his enduring love for natural history. Upon his passing in 1937, the museum was generously passed over to the management of the Natural History Museum in London, ensuring its preservation and continued development.
Museum Highlights
Animal Highlights
Tring Natural History Museum offers an unforgettable opportunity to encounter iconic wildlife up close. Marvel at the majestic lions, playful primates, and colorful birds that call this fascinating institution home. You can even see the skeleton of an extinct giant sloth (certainly not something you see every day!).
Family-Friendly Activities
Engage your family with hands-on displays and interactive exhibits that bring the natural world to life. From scavenger hunts and treasure trails to educational talks and demonstrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Don't miss these unforgettable experiences during your visit to Tring Natural History Museum!
Facilities at Tring Natural History Museum
- On-Site Cafe: Enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink at our museum cafe.
- Gift Shop: Discover unique souvenirs and gifts related to natural history at our well-stocked shop.
- Accessible Facilities: The museum is committed to accessibility and offers facilities for visitors with disabilities.
Planning your visit to the Natural History Museum in Tring
Opening Hours
- Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed: Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Admission Fees
Entry to the museum is completely free (though donations to help with the upkeep of the museum are obviously welcomed). Pre-booking is highly recommended, particularly during school holidays.
Getting There
By Narrowboat: The museum is located in central Tring and is most easily accessible from the Wendover Arm. Moor up at Little Tring Bridge and the museum is less than a 30 minute walk through the countryside and then the town.
By Car: The Museum is located on Akeman Street, Tring, and there is a free car park located right next to the museum.
By Public Transport: Take the train to Tring station and then enjoy a pleasant walk through town to the museum.
For more information and to book tickets,
visit the Tring Natural History Museum website here.
An Unrivalled Way to Experience the Natural Wonders of the Chilterns
Immersing yourself in the local heritage and stunning wildlife of the region doesn't have to end when the museum doors close. For those seeking a truly unique way to explore the landscape, step straight out into nature by transforming your next countryside getaway into a moving floating sanctuary. Moving at a peaceful four miles per hour, our bespoke canal boat holidays allow you to wake up directly alongside kingfishers, herons, and the mirror-like waters of the historic Tring Reservoirs.
If you have never pictured yourself at the helm, we specialise in unlocking the waterways for first-timers by providing gold-standard, personal guidance on all our canal boat holidays for beginners, ensuring you feel completely confident discovering our idyllic local ecosystems.
For family groups wishing to trace the biological history of the valleys together, our boutique fleet includes an unmatched standard in contemporary 5 berth narrowboat hire, complete with fully integrated amenities for dog friendly canal boat holidays so your four-legged companion can join you on the tracking trail.
Before you cast off from Cowroast Marina, explore our interactive route map to plan your custom loops, preview seasonal wildlife highlights within our canal boat travel journal, or review exactly what to pack for a canal boat holiday to keep your binoculars and country gear perfectly organized. For any subtle logistical questions, our dedicated breakdown of canal boating frequently asked questions offers total peace of mind, letting you smoothly transition from historic exhibits to the living, breathing beauty of the Grand Union Canal.