The Bournemouth Natural Science Society (BNSS) is a charity and non-profit organisation at 39 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH1 3NS, close to Lansdowne. Founded in 1903, it is based in a Grade II listed building dating from around 1865. The museum is more than a display space: the society runs talks, exhibitions, study groups, field meetings and social events throughout the year, while its two libraries contain more than 5,000 volumes. Dr Jane Goodall, DBE, has been the society’s patron for nearly ten years.
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Inside, the collections cover Natural History, Geology, Egyptology and Archaeology. Expect fossils, rocks, minerals, ancient hand axes and an Egyptian mummy said to be around 2,600 years old. The natural history displays include preserved birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, eggs and shells. There is also a live animal showcase with reptiles, snakes, tarantulas and stick insects, looked after by keeper Jim. The building has a traditional, slightly old-fashioned museum feel, and the different rooms and collections make it more hands-on and varied than a single exhibition gallery. Outside, the garden has benches, a lawn, two wildlife ponds and mature trees, including a Ginkgo biloba and a tulip tree.
The museum is generally open to members, the public and small groups on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 16:00, with last entry at 15:30. Extra openings sometimes take place during school holidays, so it is sensible to check before travelling. Admission is free, although donations are encouraged; the society suggests £10 for a family. Groups of more than ten people need to book in advance by email or phone. The museum is about a 10–15-minute walk from Bournemouth Train & Bus Station, and buses stop close to the building on Christchurch Road. There is a 25-space car park, including two disabled spaces, although it is reserved for members, visitors and society business.
Access reflects the age of the building. A step-free route is available through the side doors to the lower-ground-floor lecture theatre and toilets, with a chair-lift providing access to the ground floor. The main museum room and Inner Hall are on one level, while several upstairs and basement collections involve stairs. A push wheelchair can be booked in advance. For more information, contact BNSS on 01202 553525 or contact@bnss.org.uk.
Published Date
28 September 2026
