Lapworth Museum of Geology
Discover dinosaurs, dazzling gems, and Earth's history at this free museum on the University of Birmingham campus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Lapworth Museum of Geology
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover dinosaurs, dazzling gems, and Earth's history at this free museum on the University of Birmingham campus.
"A free hidden gem in Birmingham, packed with fossils, minerals, and a resident dinosaur!"
Free Admission & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the museum's work.
Interactive Fun for Kids
:child: Look for free activity sheets, coloring pages, and puzzles to keep younger visitors entertained.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roary the Dinosaur
Main Hall
Meet Roary, the museum's resident dinosaur skeleton, a must-see for all ages! A true highlight that sparks wonder.
Gemstone and Fossil Collections
Exhibition Halls
Marvel at dazzling gemstones and ancient fossils, including specimens from local Wenlock limestone. A treasure trove for rock enthusiasts.
Interactive Earth Science Displays
Interactive Zone
Engage with hands-on exhibits demonstrating earthquakes, tectonic plates, and Earth's evolution. Fun and educational for everyone.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Discoveries
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the museum's work.
Interactive Fun for Kids
:child: Look for free activity sheets, coloring pages, and puzzles to keep younger visitors entertained.
Parking Information
:car: Paid parking is available via the RingGo app, a short walk from the museum.
Explore the Campus
:walking: Take a stroll through the beautiful University of Birmingham grounds before or after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the museum's work.
Interactive Fun for Kids
:child: Look for free activity sheets, coloring pages, and puzzles to keep younger visitors entertained.
Parking Information
:car: Paid parking is available via the RingGo app, a short walk from the museum.
Explore the Campus
:walking: Take a stroll through the beautiful University of Birmingham grounds before or after your visit.
Gift Shop Treasures
:gift: Check out the new gift shop for unique souvenirs, books, and geological-themed items.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lapworth Museum of Geology for its free admission and fascinating collections, particularly the dinosaur skeletons and diverse mineral displays. It's a highly recommended, engaging, and educational experience for families and science enthusiasts alike, though some note it can get warm on hot days.
"Nice small museum that's free but asks for a donation.
A couple of dinosaurs, lots of rocks and some cool interactive displays. Covers evolution.
There is a section on geologists from Birmingham and the university.
It will keep you entertained for 1 hour or so.
Parking is 10 minutes walk but the walk is nice through the university grounds.
They have live shows regularly.
When I was there they had murder in the museum, an app on your phone to find clues (tricking children into looking at items into the museum). Well worth the £20 because the kids did that, whilst I looked at the displays in the museum."
Ben “The Hosk” Hosking
"Visited recently for an event held by the University of Birmingham and Kidney Care UK... The museum, located within the university, is beautiful and has plenty to explore. The atmosphere was welcoming, and staff were friendly and helpful throughout the event. It was well-organized and a great success. A lovely venue for both events and to visit in general"
rebecca g
"Free entry to this hidden gem of a museum. Spoke to the person on reception about parking, who advised the parking is paid via RingGo app as seen in the signage and not free as per some Google reviews.
Small museum with geological collections over 2 floors, located on Birmingham University campus. It is not a particular big museum, doable within 45 minutes if you read most of the information.
It is not an interactive museum.
There are toilet facilities on the ground floor.
There is the Barber Institute of Fine Arts museum located close by but as of 2025, it remains closed until 2026 for major improvements."
Jan-Fei Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the University of Birmingham campus. You can reach it by bus from the city center, with several routes stopping nearby.
Yes, paid parking is available on campus. You can pay using the RingGo app.
The museum is generally accessible, with facilities on the ground floor. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
Absolutely! Numerous bus routes serve the University of Birmingham campus, making public transport a convenient option.
Taking a bus from the city center is a straightforward and common method to reach the University of Birmingham campus where the museum is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's opening times can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most current information before your visit.
No, general admission to the Lapworth Museum of Geology is free, and you do not need to book tickets in advance. Donations are welcome.
Admission to the Lapworth Museum of Geology is free. They do, however, welcome donations to help support their collections and operations.
The museum occasionally hosts special events, workshops, and exhibitions. It's advisable to check their website or social media for announcements.
The Lapworth Museum of Geology offers free entry to all visitors. Donations are encouraged to aid in the preservation and display of their collections.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore extensive collections of fossils, minerals, rocks, and dinosaur skeletons, including Roary the Allosaurus. There are also interactive displays on Earth science. +2
Yes, it's very family-friendly with interactive exhibits, dinosaur displays, and free activity sheets that children often enjoy. +2
Most visitors spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level and engagement with the exhibits.
Yes, the museum features interactive displays covering topics like earthquakes, tectonic plates, and the evolution of the Earth.
'Murder at the Museum' is an interactive event where visitors use an app to follow clues around the museum to solve a mystery, making the visit engaging for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a cafe. However, there are dining options available within the University of Birmingham campus, or you can find eateries in the nearby Selly Oak area.
While there isn't a dedicated cafe, it's generally acceptable to consume your own food in designated areas or outside the museum, but always check for specific campus policies.
The University of Birmingham campus has various cafes and food outlets. Selly Oak, a short distance away, also offers a range of dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Lapworth Museum of Geology. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
Roary the dinosaur, the vibrant mineral displays, and the unique fossil specimens offer excellent photo opportunities. The museum's architecture itself is also quite photogenic. 
Video recording for personal use is typically allowed, similar to photography. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
Drones are generally not permitted inside museums or on university campuses without specific authorization due to safety and privacy concerns.
Visitors often capture close-ups of intricate fossils and colorful minerals, as well as wider shots of the dinosaur skeletons and the museum's interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about an hour to an hour and a half to explore. The museum is located on the University of Birmingham campus, making it a pleasant place to visit. While there's no cafe on-site, the university campus offers various food options, or you can pack a picnic to enjoy nearby.
💰 Budget Travelers & Students
It's a great place to spend a few hours learning about geology, paleontology, and Earth sciences. Combine your visit with exploring the beautiful University of Birmingham campus, which is also free to wander around.
🔬 Science Enthusiasts & Geology Buffs
Don't miss the chance to see Roary the Allosaurus and explore the interactive exhibits that delve into topics like plate tectonics and evolution. The museum's connection to the University of Birmingham also means it's at the forefront of geological research.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Attraction: Roary the Allosaurus
The presence of such a significant dinosaur skeleton makes the museum a fantastic destination for families and anyone with an interest in paleontology. It provides a tangible connection to a distant past, sparking curiosity and wonder about the creatures that once roamed the Earth. The museum's presentation of Roary ensures it's not just an exhibit, but an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Seeing Roary up close offers a unique educational opportunity, allowing visitors to appreciate the anatomy and grandeur of these ancient predators. It's a reminder of the deep history of life on our planet and a highlight that consistently receives praise in visitor feedback.
Exploring the Collections: Fossils, Minerals, and More
Visitors frequently praise the quality and variety of the mineral displays, with many noting the vibrant colors and intricate structures of the specimens. The museum also highlights the work of geologists from Birmingham and the university, providing context on local geological research and discoveries. This blend of global and local perspectives enriches the visitor experience.
Interactive elements, such as demonstrations of earthquakes and tectonic plate movements, make the learning process engaging and accessible. These hands-on displays, combined with the vast array of static exhibits, ensure that the Lapworth Museum of Geology offers a comprehensive and fascinating journey through the world of earth sciences for everyone.
A Gem for Budget Travelers and Families
Parents often appreciate the museum's family-friendly atmosphere, with many mentioning the availability of free activity sheets, coloring pages, and puzzles that help keep children engaged. The interactive displays and the presence of Roary the dinosaur are particular hits with younger visitors, turning a museum visit into an exciting adventure.
Reddit discussions frequently recommend the Lapworth Museum as a top pick for affordable outings in Birmingham, emphasizing its educational value and entertainment factor. The combination of free entry, engaging exhibits, and a welcoming environment solidifies its reputation as a must-visit for those seeking enriching experiences on a budget.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit