Discovery Museum
Explore Newcastle's rich maritime history, scientific innovations, and cultural heritage at this engaging, free museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Discovery Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Newcastle's rich maritime history, scientific innovations, and cultural heritage at this engaging, free museum.
"A fantastic free day out with something for everyone, from engineering marvels to pop culture fun!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a full day of exploration without spending a penny on entry. Donations are welcome.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking across three floors, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turbinia Ship
Maritime History Hall
Marvel at the world's first steam turbine-powered ship, a true engineering marvel from Wallsend's shipbuilding past.
Doctor Who TARDIS
Science and Technology
Step into a replica of the iconic Doctor Who TARDIS, a fun surprise for sci-fi fans and a unique photo opportunity.
Newcastle's Past
Local History
Explore the evolution of Newcastle through engaging displays, from its industrial heritage to everyday life.
Interactive Science Zone
Science and Technology
Engage with hands-on experiments and displays that make science fun and accessible for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Value
Interactive Fun for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a full day of exploration without spending a penny on entry. Donations are welcome.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking across three floors, so wear comfy shoes!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Play Area
There's a dedicated play area upstairs for younger children to burn off energy.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture memories with the TARDIS replica and other unique exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a full day of exploration without spending a penny on entry. Donations are welcome.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking across three floors, so wear comfy shoes!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Play Area
There's a dedicated play area upstairs for younger children to burn off energy.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture memories with the TARDIS replica and other unique exhibits.
☕ Cafe Available
Grab a bite or a drink at the museum's cafe if you need a break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Discovery Museum for its free admission and engaging exhibits, making it a top choice for families and budget travelers. While some interactive elements may occasionally be out of order, the breadth of content, from maritime history to science, ensures a worthwhile visit for most. The friendly staff and clean environment further enhance the positive experience.
"Free... free... for free. A amazing place to visit better than other nearby museums with respect.
Loads of exhibits and things to enjoy inside.
Loved the challenger 2 tank outside.
Loved walking through Newcastle over the years.
No pressure to donate just a few stations scattered about unmanned asking for donations.
Staff where helpful and friendly and with it being big your never too close to other people and you've time to absorb and enjoy the exhibits."
Robin Corney
"Took a train ride with the children and had a under 10 minute walk to the museum. It is free to enter, wheelchair accessible and pushchair friendly, they have places to park your pram or pushchair. They have a cafe. Plenty of things to do, lots to learn and see and plenty of interactive things. 3 floors to interact with, our children range from 2 to 14 and they all enjoyed it. Highly recommend"
Janine Rodgerson
"Booked in for a activity that was making a madel around a moving sphere so we could pick up recycling. It was a small booking fee for adults and child and the 4yr old could come for free. This was harder then I expected but we had a lot of fun and the staff were amazing with both children. Especially since the youngest went rogue controlling the sphere and kept trying to eat the ladies lunch. They absolutely loved this"
Jean Rozanski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Discovery Museum is centrally located in Newcastle upon Tyne and is easily accessible by public transport. Many visitors arrive via train to Newcastle Central Station, followed by a short walk. Bus routes also serve the city centre.
While the museum itself doesn't have dedicated parking, there are several public car parks in the city centre within walking distance. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, with lifts available to access all floors.
Absolutely! The museum is pushchair friendly and offers designated areas to park your pram or pushchair.
From Newcastle Central Station, it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes to the Discovery Museum. Alternatively, local buses stop frequently in the city centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Discovery Museum is completely free! While entry is free, donations are gratefully accepted to help support the museum's exhibits and operations.
The museum is typically open seven days a week, except for bank holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required for general admission as it is free. However, for special ticketed activities or workshops, booking might be necessary.
The museum often hosts special exhibitions and events. Check their website or social media for current listings, such as the trading card game exhibit or historical ship displays. +1
No, free entry applies to all ages. Children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, can enjoy the museum's offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Turbinia, the world's first steam turbine ship, and the fun Doctor Who TARDIS replica. The local history galleries showcasing Newcastle's past are also highly recommended. +1
Yes, the museum features numerous interactive exhibits, including a popular water room for toddlers and science displays. Some interactive elements may occasionally be out of order. +1
Most visitors find that a few hours are sufficient to explore the main exhibits. However, if you have young children or are particularly interested in maritime history, you could easily spend longer.
Yes, there is a small selection of gifts and toys available for purchase in the museum's shop.
The water room is a popular interactive area where toddlers can play with water. It can get very busy, especially during peak times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum to maintain the exhibits. The cafe is available for purchases.
The museum is located in Newcastle city centre, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs within easy walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the museum. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas.
The TARDIS replica from Doctor Who is a unique and popular spot for photos. The Turbinia ship also makes for an impressive shot.
It's advisable to avoid using flash photography, as it can sometimes damage delicate artifacts and may disturb other visitors. Check for signage regarding flash use.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some interactive exhibits might occasionally have minor issues, the overall experience is highly engaging for a wide age range, from toddlers to teens. It’s a great way to spend a few hours learning about Newcastle’s rich history and scientific achievements without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there's a cafe on-site for refreshments, you can also pack your own snacks and drinks to keep costs down. The museum's central location means you can combine your visit with other free activities in the city, like exploring the Quayside or walking through the historic city centre.
🤓 History Buffs & Science Enthusiasts
For science enthusiasts, the interactive displays and the Doctor Who TARDIS replica offer unique points of interest. The exhibits on inventions and technology provide insights into scientific advancements throughout history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Maritime Heritage: The Turbinia
Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale of the Turbinia and learn about the engineering innovations that made it possible. The museum provides context on the shipbuilding industry in the Tyne Valley, highlighting Newcastle's significant role in maritime innovation. It's a powerful reminder of the region's industrial prowess.
Exploring the Turbinia offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in industrial and maritime history. It’s a testament to the ingenuity that once thrived in the North East of England and remains a highlight for many visitors interested in engineering and naval achievements.
Science and Innovation: From TARDIS to Inventions
Beyond the TARDIS, the museum delves into various scientific marvels. You can explore interactive displays that explain complex concepts in an accessible way, from the mechanics of the Newcastle Swing Bridge to other Victorian-era inventions. These hands-on exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through play.
These scientific displays highlight the spirit of invention and discovery that has characterized Newcastle. They provide an engaging experience for all ages, demonstrating how science and technology have shaped our world and continue to drive progress.
Family Fun and Interactive Play
Upstairs, there's a dedicated play area for little ones where they can burn off energy, and the popular water room offers a fun, albeit sometimes crowded, sensory experience. Many exhibits are designed to be hands-on, allowing children to learn through doing, from building bridges to controlling moving spheres.
While some interactive elements might occasionally be out of order, the overall experience is highly positive for families. The free entry makes it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly outing, ensuring that a day of exploration and learning is accessible to everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit