Activity Quest is the podcast packed with stuff to do!

Each week sees a Fun Kids favourite go out-and-about to explore what’s on offer across the UK.

This week, Adam’s off to the Horniman Museum and Gardens to explore their world-renowned galleries – including the curious tale of a stuffed walrus…

He’s also visiting their butterfly house and we’re making a Horniman-inspired exhibit at home too.

What is the Horniman Museum and Gardens?

The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a museum founded by Frederick John Horniman in 1901.

It offers visitors a captivating journey through anthropology, natural history, and musical instruments!

Its anthropology collection showcases artefacts from diverse cultures and societies, providing a rich insight into the global tapestry of human heritage. The natural history section features a wide array of animal and geological specimens, while the museum’s exceptional collection of musical instruments highlights the musical diversity of cultures worldwide.

In addition to its indoor exhibits, the Horniman Museum is known for its gardens.

Find out more here!

How much is the Horniman Museum and Gardens?

The museum and gardens are free to visit.

There is a charge to visit the Aquarium, Butterfly House, and some of their events and exhibitions.

How can I get to the Horniman Museum and Gardens?

Address: 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London, SE23 3PQ

🚂 By train or tube

The Horniman is a five to ten minute walk from Forest Hill station and is signposted from the platform 1 exit (towards London Road, not Perry Vale).

The walk is uphill though there are several bus services which stop at both the station and Museum.

Forest Hill is on the London Overground line between Highbury and Islington and West Croydon / Crystal Palace line which offers a high frequency service from North, East and South London.

The station is also well served by trains from Central London, Croydon and Surrey.

Direct train services run from London Bridge (approx every ten minutes).

🚌 By bus

There are direct buses to the Horniman from around south London, including Brixton (P4), Catford (185), East Croydon (197), Lewisham (185/P4) and Peckham (197/363).

You can even reach them by direct bus from central London (route 176) and Victoria (185).

Closest bus stops

176, 185, 197, 356, P4 – stop outside the Museum and Gardens on London Road.

122 – stops on Dartmouth Road.

P13 – stops on Underhill Road.

363 – stops on Sydenham Hill Road.

🚴‍♂️ By bike

There are bicycle racks on the Avenue, near the main entrance on London Road, and by the Butterfly House, just inside the Horniman Drive gate.

The Avenue bike racks are more suitable for cargo bikes/trailers.