Great North Museum Hancock

History of Great North Museum Hancock

This museum was purpose built in Newcastle as a natural history museum in 1884 to house the growing collections of the natural history society of Northumbria. John Hancock was instrumental in securing funds for the museum. When he died in 1890 the museum briefly changed from the new museum of natural history to the Hancock Museum. John Hancock donated his prolific collection of British birds to the museum many of which are in the museum today.

What can you see at the Great North Museum Hancock?

The gallery features a living planet gallery which tells the story of wildlife and habitats. It also features a Hadrian’s wall gallery which enables visitors to discover the detailed history of the world heritage site. On top of this, the public can find out about all the forts, milecastles and associated museums that can be visited today. The gallery includes a wealth of archaeological finds from across the 73 mile stretch of Hadrian’s Wall.

The Mouse House which is near the entrance of the museum is especially for under 5’s and there are regular activities for younger visitors in this space.

On the ground floor there are Fossil Stories which uses fossils to show major changes to the landscapes, animals and plants that were around millions of years ago. It also features a T rex replica skeleton.

Accessibility 

There are lifts and stairs inside providing access to all floors. For easier access, all lifts have voice announcers and Braille Indicators. You’ll find accessible toilets on the ground, first and second floors of the museum. Guide Dogs are also welcome, if needed, the public have the option to hire a wheelchair and to do this please ask at the reception desk.

They also hold a relaxed autism friendly openings on dates during school holidays.

Blue badge parking if you have a blue badge they have four accessible parking bays at the front right corner of the museum you can use.

Additional Information 

Everybody is welcome to use the Great North Museum Hancock Library. No membership is necessary, it is an open working library for visitors to the museum, members of the public, researches, students and volunteers.

The museum is free entry but donations are welcome.

You can check out information on other galleries from the eric knows website

You can check out our opening times from this website

To see more of what events we have on to offer you can check it out by this website