We’ve been open since Victorian times, when Frederick John Horniman first opened his house and extraordinary collection of objects to visitors. Since then, our collection has grown tenfold and includes internationally important collections of Anthropology and Musical Instruments, as well as an acclaimed Aquarium, a Butterfly House and Natural History collection. Learn more about the History of the Horniman Museum and Gardens.
The Horniman connects us all with global cultures and the natural environment, encouraging us to shape a positive future for the world we all share. Today, the Horniman is London’s only museum where environment, ecology and human cultures can be seen side by side at a global scale. In 2022, the Horniman was recognised as Art Fund Museum of the Year.
Unusually for such an important Museum, you can see our collection up-close and face-to-face. You can even pick up, try on and play with some of our objects.
Our visitors come time and again to explore our free Museum, take part in our activities and enjoy our 16-acre gardens. And they discover something fascinating and mesmerising every time.
