An Interactive Science Experience
Wonderlab is the Science Museum's dedicated interactive gallery, designed to let visitors experiment with scientific principles rather than just read about them. Opened in its current form in 2016 as the Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery, it replaced the museum's earlier Launch Pad gallery and expanded significantly on the concept.
The gallery occupies a large space on the third floor and is filled with over 50 hands-on exhibits covering forces, friction, light, sound, electricity, chemistry and mathematics. Visitors can create lightning, launch rockets, experiment with pulleys, play with optical illusions and explore the physics of bridges and structures.
Live Demonstrations
One of the main draws of Wonderlab is its programme of live science demonstrations. Museum explainers perform shows throughout the day, covering topics such as combustion, cryogenics, electricity and chemical reactions. These are not dry lectures. They are designed to be theatrical, surprising and entertaining, with real flames, liquid nitrogen and loud bangs featuring regularly.
The demonstrations take place on a purpose-built stage within the gallery and typically last about 10 to 15 minutes. They are included in the Wonderlab ticket and are one of the main reasons families rate the gallery so highly.
Who Is It For?
Wonderlab is designed primarily with children in mind, and families with school-age children make up the majority of visitors. The exhibits are pitched at a level that allows children to experiment independently while still learning something, and the gallery has a buzzing, playful atmosphere that encourages curiosity.
That said, adults without children also enjoy the gallery. The science behind the exhibits is real, and the demonstrations are genuinely impressive. If you have any interest in physics or engineering, you will find plenty to engage with.
Very young children (under about five) will enjoy some of the exhibits, particularly the water play and light tables, but many of the more complex experiments require fine motor skills and reading ability that younger children may not have.
Why It Is Charged
While the rest of the Science Museum's permanent galleries are free, Wonderlab requires a paid ticket. This is because the interactive equipment requires constant maintenance and replacement, and the live demonstrations require trained staff. The charge helps fund these ongoing costs.
The ticket price varies depending on whether you book in advance or on the day, and there are concessions for children, families and members. It is worth booking online in advance, particularly during school holidays and weekends, as the gallery can sell out.
Practical Tips
Wonderlab can get very busy during school holidays and on weekend afternoons. If possible, visit on a weekday during term time for a quieter experience. The gallery is open during normal museum hours, and you can combine your visit with the free galleries on other floors.
Allow at least an hour in Wonderlab, though many families spend closer to two hours. Timing your visit to catch one or two live demonstrations will enhance the experience significantly.
