Step back 200 million years to meet the terrifying and fascinating sea creatures that ruled the oceans while dinosaurs roamed the Earth. London’s Natural History Museum offers an immersive experience that captivates visitors of all ages with its new Jurassic Oceans exhibition.
- Face off with marine reptiles from the Jurassic period
- Hands-on fossils and interactive quizzes for all ages
- Learn how ancient life links to modern climate change
What happened
The Jurassic Oceans exhibition at the Natural History Museum recreates the world’s seas from around 200 million years ago during the Jurassic period. At that time, the planet was warmer and more humid, with turbulent seas that supported a diverse array of marine life, from tiny plankton to massive marine reptiles like plesiosaurs and mosasaurs. While dinosaurs ruled the land, ferocious predators dominated the oceans, making it a thrilling backdrop for exploration.
Visitors journey through stages of prehistoric marine life, starting with the decline of giant amphibians and moving deeper into the underwater ecosystem. The exhibition features real fossils, including ammonites and ichthyosaurs, alongside dramatic displays of ancient predators like the enormous megalodon shark. Through informative panels and interactive elements, visitors also discover the scientific links between these ancient creatures and the modern marine world.
Why it feels good
Jurassic Oceans offers a carefully designed experience that appeals to children and adults alike. Younger visitors enjoy tactile encounters like holding dinosaur poo and stamping a trail sheet to vote for the sea’s fiercest predator, while older guests can delve into detailed information on evolution, fossil discoveries, and climate change. The exhibition’s educational approach makes learning fun and accessible, sparking curiosity and awe.
The show also creates an emotional connection by drawing parallels between the past and present. It highlights how species adapted to environmental changes millions of years ago and explores contemporary challenges with climate warming happening at a much faster rate. These thoughtful insights encourage visitors to appreciate Earth’s history and the urgent need for conservation.
What to enjoy or watch next
To enrich your visit, spend time with the interactive screens and quizzes at the exhibition’s end, comparing your own hand size to the flipper of a long-necked plesiosaur or inspecting fossils like ammonite shells and mosasaur teeth. The section dedicated to Jurassic sharks is particularly fascinating for those interested in these prehistoric giants, including the colossal megalodon.
After exploring Jurassic Oceans, consider browsing the museum’s extensive dinosaur galleries or attending family-oriented talks and events to continue the adventure. For those planning a visit with children, the exhibition provides a perfect half-term outing that balances entertainment with education, making prehistoric ocean life come alive in a fresh and compelling way.