World Museum, Liverpool (must see)

Established in 1851, Liverpool’s World Museum is a treasure trove of global knowledge and history, housed in an imposing Neoclassical building on William Brown Street. Originally founded as the Derby Museum to showcase the 13th Earl of Derby's natural history collection, the museum has evolved significantly over the years. Today, it is part of the National Museums Liverpool, offering free entry and a range of exhibits spanning archaeology, ethnology, natural sciences, and physical sciences.

The museum's diverse offerings include a planetarium—the first outside London, opened in 1970—featuring shows on space science and exploration, attracting around 90,000 visitors annually. Another major draw is the Natural World area, which hosts live insect colonies, interactive displays in the Clore Natural History Centre, and exhibits on zoology and botany.

A key attraction is the museum's Egyptology collection, boasting well-preserved mummies and ancient artifacts. The World Cultures gallery showcases treasures such as a full set of ancient Samurai armor and objects from Asia and beyond. British archaeology enthusiasts can marvel at items like the Anglo-Saxon Kingston brooch and Liudhard medalet, part of the Canterbury-St Martin's hoard.

The physical sciences collection is notable for its specialized instruments, including artifacts from CERN and early planetary calculators. Visitors can also explore the museum's meteorite from Mars, which landed in Nigeria in the 1960s, underscoring its interplanetary reach.

Initially sharing space with a library on Duke Street, the museum quickly outgrew its premises due to its immense popularity. A purpose-built structure was erected in 1860 on land donated by Sir William Brown. Over the decades, the museum expanded, survived significant wartime damage during the Blitz, and underwent a refurbishment in 2005. This transformation introduced a central atrium, new galleries, and increased display spaces, earning it the name World Museum to reflect its global focus.

From the live creepy crawlies in the Bug House to the cutting-edge planetarium and the award-winning interactive history centers, the museum offers something for all ages. Whether exploring ancient treasures, marveling at meteorites, or delving into the mysteries of the universe, the World Museum remains a must-visit destination that captures Liverpool’s vibrant spirit and global connections.

Why You Should Visit:
Floors and floors of things to see; it's a mix of exhibits so there should be something to interest everyone.
You could easily spend all day here if you bought your picnic (the cafe is to be avoided) and went to the planetarium.

Tip:
If you're on a budget and need to take kids out and keep them entertained, this is the place to take them!
Just make sure you book well in advance – online booking is very easy and you can just show tickets on the phone.
Also, consider combining your visit with a trip to the Walker Art Gallery (a 2-minute walk away) and discover a diverse range of world-class art.