Few museums in the world capture the imagination quite like London’s Natural History Museum. From the moment you step into its grand Romanesque hall and meet “Hope,” the enormous blue whale suspended overhead, you realise this is more than a museum it’s a celebration of life itself.
Whether you’re visiting to see the world-famous dinosaur skeletons, explore the glittering gemstones of the Earth Hall, or lose yourself among ancient fossils, one thing is certain: getting there is simple.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to get to the Natural History Museum in London by train, Tube, bus, taxi, car, and even bicycle, so you can plan your journey with ease and get in there and make it about you.
Where Is the Natural History Museum Located?
The Natural History Museum is located at:
Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD
This part of London, South Kensington, is affectionately known as the Museum Quarter, also home to the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The area is central, lively, and incredibly well-connected by public transport. You can reach it easily from anywhere in London, whether you’re coming from the West End, Heathrow, or beyond.
By Underground (Tube)
For most visitors, the London Underground (known locally as the Tube) is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the museum.
South Kensington Station
The closest station to the Natural History Museum in London is South Kensington, served by the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines.
Once you arrive, simply follow the clearly marked signs to the South Kensington Museums pedestrian tunnel, a covered walkway that connects directly to the museum entrance. It takes about five minutes on foot and spares you from crossing busy roads, which is especially handy on a rainy day.
If you’re staying in central areas like Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, or Covent Garden, the Piccadilly Line takes you directly to South Kensington without any changes.
By Bus
If you prefer to take in the city sights above ground, London’s buses are another reliable and scenic option.
Several routes stop just steps from the museum’s main entrance on Cromwell Road:
14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, and C1.
Get off at the stop named “South Kensington Museums.” From there, the museum’s grand façade is right in front of you.
Tip: If you have an Oyster card or contactless payment, buses charge a flat fare (no zones), making this one of the most affordable ways to travel through central London.
By Train Connecting from Other Cities or Airports
How do I get to the Natural History Museum by train? Most long-distance visitors will first arrive in London via major railway stations or airports. From there, it’s an easy connection to South Kensington.
From Heathrow Airport (LHR)
- By Tube: Take the Piccadilly Line directly from Heathrow to South Kensington. The journey takes 40–50 minutes, with no need to change trains.
- By Taxi: Around 45–60 minutes, costing roughly £60–£80 depending on traffic.
From Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- By Train: Take the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station, then transfer to the District or Circle Line towards South Kensington. The total journey is about one hour.
- By Taxi: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, typically £90–£120.
From Luton (LTN) or Stansted (STN) Airports
- By Train: From Luton, travel to St Pancras; from Stansted, travel to Liverpool Street. Then take the Piccadilly or Circle Line to South Kensington. Expect 1.5 hours total.
- By Taxi: Around 1.5–2 hours, with fares between £100–£150.
Whichever route you choose, London’s transport network makes it straightforward to move from airport to museum without stress.
By Taxi or Cab
If comfort and convenience are top priorities or you’re travelling with family, taking a black cab or booking an app-based taxi (Uber, Bolt, FreeNow) is a simple solution.
Taxis can drop passengers directly at the museum’s Cromwell Road or Exhibition Road entrances.
Approximate journey times:
- From Central London (Oxford Street / Piccadilly Circus): 15–20 minutes
- From Victoria Station: 10–12 minutes
- From Paddington Station: 15 minutes
- From King’s Cross / St Pancras: 20 minutes
Taxi Tip: My London Transfer will make your trip easier and convenient.
By Car
Driving in central London is possible, but not always practical. There’s no public parking at the museum itself, and you’ll also need to pay the London Congestion Charge if you enter Zone 1 between 7 AM and 6 PM on weekdays.
Nearby paid car parks include:
- Union Car Parks, Gloucester Road, SW7 4SF
- Pavilion Road Car Park, Knightsbridge
Because parking is limited and often expensive, many visitors find it easier to leave their car farther out and continue by Tube.
By Foot or Bike
If you’re already exploring West London, walking or cycling to the museum is a pleasure in itself.
Walking
From Hyde Park Corner, it’s a 15-minute stroll through tree-lined avenues, while Kensington Gardens and Royal Albert Hall are just around the corner.
Cycling
London’s Santander Cycles (public bike hire) have docking stations on Exhibition Road and Cromwell Road.
You’ll also find cycle racks outside the museum for personal bikes, though remember, bicycles aren’t allowed inside the museum grounds.
It’s a wonderful way to see more of the city, especially on a sunny day.
Accessibility Information
The Natural History Museum prides itself on being accessible to all visitors.
- Step-free entrances are available on both Cromwell Road and Exhibition Road.
- Lifts connect all major galleries and floors.
- Accessible toilets and quiet spaces are provided.
- Assistance is available at South Kensington Station, and many of the surrounding pavements are wheelchair-friendly.
You can find full details on the museum’s official Accessibility Page.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early (before 10:00 AM) to avoid long queues.
- Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
- If you’re planning to visit on a weekend or during school holidays, pre-book special exhibition tickets in advance.
- Combine your visit with nearby sights: the V&A Museum, the Science Museum, or Hyde Park are all within walking distance.
- The area around Exhibition Road has cafés, bakeries, and casual restaurants perfect for a post-museum lunch.
- On wet days, use the pedestrian tunnel from South Kensington Station to stay dry all the way to the entrance.
Final Words
Getting to the Natural History Museum in London couldn’t be easier. Whether you’re arriving on the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow, hopping on a bus from Knightsbridge, or taking a leisurely walk from Hyde Park, the journey is part of the London experience itself.
With its grand architecture, free admission, and timeless exhibits, the museum is a must-visit for anyone curious about the natural world.
So plan your route, pack your curiosity, and as they say, get in there and make it about you because the real wonder begins the moment you set out.
FAQs
What is the nearest Tube station to the Natural History Museum?
The closest station is South Kensington, served by the Circle, District, and Piccadilly Lines, about a 5-minute walk via the pedestrian tunnel.
How do you get to the Natural History Museum by train?
From airports like Heathrow or Gatwick, take a train or Tube into central London, then transfer to the District, Circle, or Piccadilly Line to reach South Kensington.
Can I take a taxi directly to the entrance?
Yes taxis and ride-share vehicles can drop you off right outside the main entrances on Cromwell Road or Exhibition Road.
How long does it take from Heathrow by Tube?
About 40–50 minutes on the Piccadilly Line, with no changes required.
What’s the best time to visit the museum?
Weekday mornings or late afternoons are the quietest. Arrive before 10 AM or after 4 PM for a calmer experience.
