The Polar Museum - Image 1

The Polar Museum

Cambridge, United Kingdom•4.6(735)•Museum

Explore fascinating polar exploration history and artifacts at this free Cambridge museum, perfect for families with young children.

The Polar Museum, located at the Scott Polar Research Institute at the University of Cambridge, offers visitors a unique journey into polar exploration and discovery. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits related to polar expeditions, making it an educational and inspiring destination for families. Visitors of all ages, including young children from 0-5 years, can explore the museum's indoor exhibits featuring historic polar exploration narratives, expedition artifacts, and interactive learning resources. The venue is completely free to enter, making it an accessible cultural experience for all families. The museum caters to children by providing learning resources and maintaining a pushchair-friendly environment, ensuring parents with young children can navigate comfortably throughout the space. Beyond the main exhibits, the museum offers online catalogues, educational resources, and special features such as the Shackleton Online collection, providing depth for visitors interested in specific aspects of polar history. The museum's accessibility features and family-focused amenities make it an ideal destination for a memorable educational outing with children.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:00
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(735 reviews)
R
Robyn Allwright

Robyn Allwright

a month ago

Wonderful museum. Nicely arranged and so nice to see Native North American art displayed.

C
Carole Noel

Carole Noel

3 months ago

A wonderful place, not very large, but a visit can significantly expand your knowledge. Interesting and certainly worth a visit. Free admission. Don't forget to look at the ceiling 😉 in the entrance.

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D

D

4 months ago

A small but delightful museum dedicated to the exploration of the poles. It gives a good picture of the spirit of the times. I gained great respect for the explorers. Under extreme and harsh conditions, they explored areas that were previously terra incognita. They need to be careful with the woke texts. They are on the edge, but nevertheless, this museum was a fantastic surprise. We were welcomed by two young, enthusiastic people. I truly enjoyed it. Highly recommended.

K
K. Peake

K. Peake

5 months ago

This was a fascinating museum to visit, delving into many details of the North and South Poles! There are objects displayed that were discovered at both of them and the travel of indigenous people is touched on, showing a kayak and models of the sledges. Different items of clothing can be seen that were worn by them in the freezing cold temperatures and the works they crafted too, including unique masks and a drum! Stories are told of exhibitions made to the Poles and items used to make these journeys are kept here, alongside the likes of tools and transport deployed once having reached the destinations themselves. Ship and kayak models have a strong level of detail, story is also told of Antarctica's discovery in 1820! Creative displays in another section demonstrate differing concepts and the artwork has a unique blend of colors, communication methods used in modern times to reach out to the rest of the world and damage to the Ozone Layer are focused points too.

L
Lee Ambrose

Lee Ambrose

8 months ago

A great museum especially if you have an interest in the Poles and exploration. It's free to enter and has a gift shop.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Polar Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Polar Museum

Is The Polar Museum free to visit?

Entry to The Polar Museum is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is The Polar Museum suitable for?

The Polar Museum is suitable from newborn up to age 5.

Is The Polar Museum dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Polar Museum.

Is there parking at The Polar Museum?

Yes — The Polar Museum has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at The Polar Museum?

The Polar Museum doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is The Polar Museum pushchair-friendly?

Yes, The Polar Museum is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at The Polar Museum?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Polar Museum.

How do I get to The Polar Museum by public transport?

The Polar Museum is well-served by public transport.
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