Booth Museum of Natural History

First opened in 1891 and a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, the Booth Museum of Natural History owes its existence to the life and works of Victorian naturalist and collector Edward Thomas Booth. The sheer number of exhibits – more than 500,000 insects, over 30,000 plants, 50,000 or so fossils and minerals, etc. - makes this a must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in the world around us. 

Perhaps the focal point of the Booth Museum, however, is the collection of bird dioramas that Booth himself created. This is a day out venue that is at times quirky and eccentric, while always remaining interesting and instructive. Be sure to bring the youngsters to the Discovery Lab, an accessible gallery that offers a range of hands-on, interactive displays for all. 

We particularly liked the butterfly and moth collection, which includes examples of brightly coloured insects from all over the world. You’ll also find bees and wasps in the collection, as well as plenty of information about just how vital these creatures are to our lives. And should you want to treat the kids at the end of your visit, there’s an excellent gift shop just waiting to be discovered here. 

The Booth Museum of Natural History is free to visitors. It’s located in Dyke Road, just across the road from the park.