London Days Out | Opens Friday 5 February 2027
Big news for south east London families. The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill has announced that its much-loved Natural History Gallery will reopen as the Nature Gallery on Friday 5 February 2027, after a full refurbishment.
Here are five things to know.
1. The walrus is staying
Don’t worry, the Horniman’s famous walrus will still be there. It’s joined by more than 2,300 objects from the museum’s collection, alongside artist commissions and multisensory interactives.
2. A spectacular ceiling projection
One of the highlights will be a dramatic new ceiling projection, including footage filmed in the Horniman’s own Gardens, celebrating the wonder of life on Earth.
3. Big questions about our planet
The reimagined gallery explores our connection to and reliance on nature, stories of extinction and climate change, and ideas for how we can all help shape the planet’s future. Local schools and community groups have helped create displays, including one on plastic pollution by young curators from Addey & Stanhope School in Deptford.
4. A new Discovery Den for little ones
Next to the gallery, a new hands-on Nature Discovery Den focuses on local wildlife. It’s been designed with and for families with young children to inspire a lifelong love of nature.
5. The finale of a £12.5m transformation
The opening completes the Horniman’s £12.5 million Nature + Love project and marks the end of its 125th anniversary year. The Grade II listed gallery, first built in 1901, has been renovated while keeping many historic display cases. Earlier this year the Horniman also opened a free outdoor play area and an augmented reality trail in its Gardens. You can support the gallery through the Inspiring Nature crowdfunder, which runs until 29 October.
Visit
Nature Gallery at the Horniman Museum and Gardens
100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ
Opens Friday 5 February 2027
Free entry to the museum and Gardens
Nearest station: Forest Hill