Great North Museum Hancock
A free Victorian museum in Newcastle showcasing dinosaurs, mummies, Hadrian's Wall, and natural history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Great North Museum Hancock
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free Victorian museum in Newcastle showcasing dinosaurs, mummies, Hadrian's Wall, and natural history.
"Absolutely loved my visit! From life-sized dinosaurs to fascinating mummies, there’s so much to explore."
🎯 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Enjoy this amazing museum without an entry fee! Donations are appreciated to support their work. :moneybag:
🦖 Roar-some Dinosaur Fun
Kids and adults alike will love the impressive dinosaur exhibits. Get ready for some 'roarsome' adventures! :dinosaur:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Hall
Main Exhibition Hall
Stand in awe of life-sized dinosaur skeletons, a guaranteed hit for all ages. Roar-some fun!
Ancient Egypt
Ancient Worlds Gallery
Uncover the mysteries of mummies and ancient artifacts. A fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

Hadrian's Wall
Living Planet Gallery
Explore Roman artifacts and learn about life on the frontier of the Roman Empire. History brought to life.

The Mouse House
Ground Floor
A delightful interactive play space for under-5s, sparking curiosity with engaging wall activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Family Fun Awaits
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Enjoy this amazing museum without an entry fee! Donations are appreciated to support their work. :moneybag:
🦖 Roar-some Dinosaur Fun
Kids and adults alike will love the impressive dinosaur exhibits. Get ready for some 'roarsome' adventures! :dinosaur:
👶 Little Ones' Play Area
The Mouse House is a fantastic free drop-in play area for under 5s with interactive walls. :baby:
🪐 Planetarium Shows
Don't miss the Planetarium for captivating shows about space and the universe. Book tickets in advance! :star:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Enjoy this amazing museum without an entry fee! Donations are appreciated to support their work. :moneybag:
🦖 Roar-some Dinosaur Fun
Kids and adults alike will love the impressive dinosaur exhibits. Get ready for some 'roarsome' adventures! :dinosaur:
👶 Little Ones' Play Area
The Mouse House is a fantastic free drop-in play area for under 5s with interactive walls. :baby:
🪐 Planetarium Shows
Don't miss the Planetarium for captivating shows about space and the universe. Book tickets in advance! :star:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Great North Museum: Hancock for its free entry and diverse, engaging exhibits, particularly the dinosaur and Egyptian collections. It's highly recommended as a family-friendly destination with interactive elements and a welcoming atmosphere. While not the largest collection, it offers substantial educational value for its price point.
"This is one of Newcastle's free museums. It was a quiet weekday when I visited. Not been since childhood some 40 years ago, so it was good to go back. Spent a few hours looking at the different aspects of the museum. The Ancient Egypt section was my favourite. Well worth a visit to the Planetarium if you have an interest in the planets, stars and the universe. We watched from Earth to the Universe. Can recommend it."
Nicola Smith
"I absolutely loved my visit to the Great North Museum in Newcastle! 🦖 From life-sized dinosaurs to fascinating mummies and ancient history exhibits, there’s so much to explore. 🌟 The best part is that it’s free and perfect for a fun, interactive family day out. My kids had a great time with all the hands-on activities and interactive screens. Highly recommended if you’re looking for something exciting and educational to do."
Mohammed Adil
"I can't believe this place is free to visit. It's a very good place to learn British history. There is an Egyptian museum as well, with mummies on display. A must-go place with children. It's beautifully managed, and the staff is very kind."
Abdullah Riaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Newcastle upon Tyne at NE2 4PT. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. Newcastle Central Station is also a walkable distance away. :bus: :train:
While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public car parks are available within walking distance. Consider using city centre car parks for convenience. :car:
Absolutely! Numerous bus routes serve the area around the museum. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient options. :bus:
Yes, the museum is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with lifts and ramps available to navigate different levels. :wheelchair:
The museum is well-served by local buses. Newcastle Central Station is also a key hub for both national rail and local metro services, a short walk away. :train: :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Great North Museum: Hancock is completely free! Donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the collections and exhibits. :moneybag:
General admission is free and doesn't require booking. However, for special events or Planetarium shows, advance booking is often recommended or required. :ticket:
The museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 5 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially on bank holidays. :clock:
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and special events, including talks and family activities. Check their website or social media for current listings. :calendar:
Yes, Planetarium shows usually have a small admission fee. It's advisable to book these in advance as they can be popular. :star:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the impressive dinosaur skeletons, the fascinating Ancient Egypt collection with mummies, and exhibits on Hadrian's Wall. The Mouse House is great for younger children. :dinosaur: :ancientegypt: :romansoldier:
Absolutely! It's a fantastic family-friendly museum with interactive displays, a dedicated play area (The Mouse House), and engaging exhibits like dinosaurs that kids love. It's been nominated for family-friendly awards! :child: :trophy:
You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the various galleries. If you plan to see a Planetarium show, allow an extra hour. :timer:
Yes, the museum offers a dedicated play area called The Mouse House for under-5s, and baby changing facilities are available. :baby_bottle:
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but please check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or displays. Always be mindful of other visitors. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit. :coffee:
While there's a cafe, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks to consume in designated areas or outside the museum. Check for specific policies. :sandwich:
Being in the city centre, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs within a short walking distance of the museum, offering a wide range of dining options. :forkandknife:
The cafe typically offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and light snacks, catering to a range of tastes. :cake:
It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about specific dietary options, as offerings can vary. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the museum. However, always be respectful of other visitors and check for any signs indicating restricted areas. :camera:
The dinosaur hall, the Ancient Egypt displays, and the Roman artifacts from Hadrian's Wall are particularly photogenic. The architecture of the building itself is also quite striking. :statueofliberty:
Tripods and flash photography may be restricted to avoid disturbing other visitors or damaging exhibits. It's advisable to check the museum's photography policy. :tripod:
Natural light can be limited in some galleries. Consider visiting during less crowded times to get clearer shots without too many people in the background. :sunwithface:
The T-Rex skeleton, the sarcophagi in the Egyptian section, and the interactive elements in The Mouse House are popular spots for photos. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🔬 Science & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural World
Beyond the grand skeletons, you can delve into the intricacies of taxidermy, marvel at insect collections, and learn about the diverse ecosystems found in the North East. The museum's commitment to showcasing both ancient and modern natural history ensures a dynamic and engaging experience for all who visit. It's a place where curiosity is encouraged, and learning feels like an adventure.
A Journey Through Ancient Civilizations
Complementing the Egyptian collection are exhibits on Greek and Roman life, including significant artifacts related to Hadrian's Wall. These displays provide context for the region's historical significance within the Roman Empire. The museum effectively uses interpretation to bring these ancient worlds to life, making them accessible and engaging for a modern audience. It’s a chance to connect with history on a tangible level, exploring the objects and stories of people who lived millennia ago.
Family-Friendly Fun and Learning
Key attractions for families include the dinosaur hall, which is a guaranteed hit, and The Mouse House, a dedicated interactive play area for toddlers and preschoolers. This space is designed to spark curiosity with engaging wall activities and information. The museum's interactive screens and hands-on elements throughout various galleries further enhance the learning experience for kids, making it an ideal destination for a fun and educational family day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit