Whipple Museum of the History of Science
The Whipple Museum of the History of Science
The Whipple Museum of the History of Science on Free School Lane holds an internationally relevant collection of scientific instruments and models, dating from the Middle Ages to the present. The Museum was founded in 1944 by Robert Whipple. He was a businessman involved in the scientific instrument trade and an avid collector of scientific books and instruments, which formed the basis of the Museum’s collection.
Since its foundation the Museum acquired many instruments formerly used by the Colleges and the departments. Currently they display a wide array of instruments used for navigation, astronomy, calculation and surveying. The collection highlights include:
- Charles Darwin’s microscope (from circa 1846). He purchased it to process samples he collected on the HMS Beagle.
- The Grand Orrery (from circa 1750), which is an ornate model of the solar system, as it was then known.
- The Planispheric Astrolabe, which is the earliest known English astrolabe in existence (14th century).
Like all other Cambridge museums, the Whipple is free to enter and they frequently hold events for families and set up new temporary exhibits. Have a look at their website to see what they have on during your visit! The Museum has access available for individuals with limited mobility and they also have accessible toilet facilities.
You can find out more about all the Cambridge museums and other amazing sights in the city by booking a Private Tour with us!
Opening hours: 12:30am-4:30pm
Getting Here By Train
Cambridge Train Station
Getting Here By Bus
St Andrew’s Street (Stop S1): Citi 1 and Citi 3
Getting Here By Car
Grand Arcade Car Park, Corn Exchange St, Cambridge CB2 3QF
VISIT THIS SITE ON A PRIVATE CAMBRIDGE WALKING TOUR
You can find out more information on this site, and some of the most iconic sites in the city, on a Private Walking Tour of Cambridge!
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