While in Newcastle spend some time learning about natural history and ancient peoples during a visit to the Great North Museum-Hancock. Dating back to the 19th century, the museum stands within a renovated Victorian mansion, which is an attraction in its own right. Trace the history of nature and humanity in this all-encompassing museum.
Enter the mansion and gaze up at the life-size cast of an African elephant. Large animals certainly make an impression here, with a T. rex skeleton in the Dinosaur Hall providing an insight into the sheer size of the huge creatures that once roamed Earth.
Move along to see human civilizations, exemplified by the mummified remains of an Egyptian, known as Baktenhor. Explore the Hadrian’s Wall exhibit to learn about Roman life in the north of England, near the Scottish border.
Investigate wildlife with the Natural Northumbria display that looks into the animals found in this part of England. See the stuffed remains of Sparkie, Newcastle’s famed talking budgie from the 1960s.
The Ice Age to Iron Age exhibit is a great example of how the museum ties human history to the natural world, delving into 12,000 years of history in this region. Expand across the globe in the World Cultures area, where you’ll study Greek vestiges and artifacts from other parts of the globe.
Appreciate the Victorian architecture of the museum’s building, beneath which lies an air raid shelter from World War II. The museum is part of the Great North Museum trio that also includes the Hatton Gallery and the Regional Resource Centre. It is free to enter and opens daily from morning until late afternoon.
The Great North Museum-Hancock is located in the heart of Newcastle’s city center. Travel by metro to the Haymarket station and walk north for less than 10 minutes to get to the museum. While you’re here, see other nearby sights such as the Newcastle University Library, the Hatton Gallery and the Newcastle City Council.
