A really interesting museum sparks interest and is a a great way to spend a day. Not only is Cambridge the home of academic excellence and steeped in history and iconic buildings, it is also proud to be home to a wide variety of world class museums. Many of the museums are free and feature in our free things to do in Cambridge post here. Bring history to life with a trip to one of these wonderful museums in Cambridge.
Fitzwilliam Museum
Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RB
The Fitzwilliam has collections of beautiful works of art, paintings, and amazing historical artefacts. When planning to visit museums in Cambridge, this should most definitely feature on your list. Exhibitions change on a regular basis so you can get a new experience each time you visit. Past exhibitions have included FEAST & FAST which presented a fascinating insight into the history and culture of food and eating. The Fitzwilliam has something for everyone and entrance is free.
Find out more the Fitzwilliam museum here.
The Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
Lensfield Rd, Cambridge CB2 1ER
A firm favourite with old and young, this museum was set up in 1920 to create a centre of excellence in the study of the world’s Polar Regions. The Institute has an excellent collection, illustrating polar exploration and bringing history to life through artefacts and photographs. You can enjoy seeing Scott’s belongings from the famous expedition and many other thought provoking items. A fascinating museums that is well worth a visit and will interest the whole family.
Find out more The Scott Polar Research Institute here.
University Museum of Zoology
Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3EJ
One of Cambridge’s most popular museums, the University Museum of Zoology is home to thousands of specimens from the animal kingdom. From the largest elephant to the smallest insect, look and learn about them here. The museum sits proudly amongst the best collections in the world so is a top choice for children. A must see museum in Cambridge and one which you will thoroughly enjoy.
Find out more University Museum of Zoology here.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3DZ
This beautiful, hidden gem is next to the Zoology Museum, and is home to a collection of Cambridge Universities local antiquities. They have archaeological and ethnographic artefacts from all corners of the globe and you can even see artefacts gathered by Captain Cook! This small museum will captivate and inspire.
Find out more The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology here.
Duxford Imperial War Museum
Duxford Airfield, Building 425, Cambridge CB22 4QR
Just south of the city, the Duxford Imperial War museum is well worth the journey. This is Britain’s biggest aviation museum and includes almost 200 aircrafts, military vehicles and more. The fabulous machines are certainly fascinating but the human stories that sit alongside them are for us the star of the show. A really interesting day out so get out of the city and have a look.
Find out more Duxford Imperial War Museum here.
More things to do in Cambridge here.