Cumberland House Natural History Museum
Discover a charming Victorian natural history collection and a magical butterfly house, all with free admission. A delightful local gem!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Cumberland House Natural History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a charming Victorian natural history collection and a magical butterfly house, all with free admission. A delightful local gem!
"A cute museum with a wonderful butterfly house, perfect for families and budget travelers!"
🦋 Support the Museum
Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this lovely spot.
♿ Ground Floor Access
The butterfly house and ground floor are wheelchair accessible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enchanting Butterfly House
Ground Floor
Step into a tropical paradise filled with fluttering butterflies. A magical experience for all ages, especially toddlers!
Victorian Natural History Collection
First Floor
Explore a fascinating collection of taxidermy, fossils, bones, and shells amassed by Henry Guermonprez.
Local Flora and Fauna Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Discover detailed descriptions of local plant and animal life, offering insights into the region's natural heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Donations Welcome
Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What to see in Portsmouth
🦋 Support the Museum
Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this lovely spot.
♿ Ground Floor Access
The butterfly house and ground floor are wheelchair accessible.
What can I do on a week's holiday in Southsea?
📸 Great for Little Ones
Toddlers and young children will adore the butterfly house!
🧐 Appreciate the Quirks
Enjoy the unique Victorian collection, including some 'bad' taxidermy examples!
Tips
from all over the internet
🦋 Support the Museum
Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this lovely spot.
♿ Ground Floor Access
The butterfly house and ground floor are wheelchair accessible.
📸 Great for Little Ones
Toddlers and young children will adore the butterfly house!
🧐 Appreciate the Quirks
Enjoy the unique Victorian collection, including some 'bad' taxidermy examples!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cumberland House Natural History Museum for its charming butterfly house and interesting Victorian natural history collection, all offered with free admission. While some note the lack of lift access to the first floor, the museum is generally considered a delightful and educational experience, especially for families and those on a budget.
"Lovely little museum with a wonderful butterfly house. Entry is Currently £5. Wheelchair accessable to the ground floor including butterfly house, but no lift to 1st floor. Accessable toilet available. 5star except for lack of lift, but understandable as it's located in a relatively small Victorian building."
360Tour Guide
"What a cute museum! My family had a wonderful time exploring the exhibits. Although little it was enough for my two young kids. A bonus is it's free with donations appreciated."
Kenzie Beames
"A quaint little museum and butterfly house showcasing a Victorian collection of natural artefacts - Taxidermy, fossils, bones, shells, invertebrates etc, collected by one man, Henry Guermonprez with descriptions of the local flora and fauna."
Alison Simpson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cumberland House is located in Southsea. It's accessible by public transport, with local bus routes serving the area. Parking may be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations.
While specific parking details can vary, street parking is often available in the vicinity of Cumberland House. It's recommended to check local signage for restrictions and fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Cumberland House Natural History Museum is free! Donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep of the museum and its exhibits.
No, advance booking is not typically required as the museum offers free admission. You can usually just turn up.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, it's a great spot for children, especially the butterfly house which is a big hit with toddlers and young kids. The exhibits are engaging for younger visitors.
The ground floor, including the butterfly house, is wheelchair accessible and features an accessible toilet. However, there is no lift to the first floor.
A visit to Cumberland House can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and how long you spend in the butterfly house. It's a small but packed museum.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised, but the exhibits are self-explanatory. Staff are usually on hand to answer questions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially regarding flash photography.
The butterfly house offers vibrant and colorful photo opportunities. The taxidermy and fossil displays also make for interesting shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Butterfly House
This section is fully accessible for wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonder of these delicate creatures. The staff are often noted for being friendly and helpful, adding to the positive visitor experience. It's a small but impactful part of the museum that leaves a lasting impression.
A Glimpse into Victorian Naturalism
While some might humorously note the 'bad taxidermy' examples, they add to the museum's quirky charm and historical authenticity. The museum also highlights local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience for those interested in the natural environment of Southsea. It's a quaint and compact display that offers a rich historical and scientific perspective.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit