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Whipple Museum of the History of Science, Cambridge

4.5
#7 of 11 in Museums in Cambridge
Science Museum History Museum
The Whipple Museum of the History of Science is a Museum attached to the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, which houses an extensive collection of scientific instruments, apparatus, models, pictures, prints, photographs, books and other material related to the history of science. It is located in the former Perse School on Free School Lane, and was founded in 1944, when Robert Whipple presented his collection of scientific instruments to the University of Cambridge. The Museum's collection is 'designated' by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) as being of "national and international importance".The Museum is one of eight museums in the University of Cambridge Museums consortium.Department of History and Philosophy of ScienceThe Museum forms part of the Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Cambridge. The Department includes a working library with a large collection of early scientific books, some of which were given by Robert Whipple. The Museum plays an important part in the Department's teaching and research.CollectionsThe museum's holdings are particularly strong in material dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries, especially objects produced by English instrument makers, although the collection contains objects dating from the medieval period to the present day. Instruments of astronomy, navigation, surveying, drawing and calculating are well represented, as are sundials, mathematical instruments and early electrical apparatus.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
66 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • August 18, 2017
    the family and me visited the whipple museum on our week in cambridge and this was really one of the best bits of the whole time there. its a good set of instruments and bits and pieces that they have...  more »
  • August 18, 2017
    The Whipple museum is an interesting place to see some of the historical instruments used in science and it's discoveries. Charles Darwin features with his microscope. Worth the visit.  more »
  • August 16, 2017
    We visited as a group to the Whipple Museum of the History of Science. Upon arriving, our mentors have already made a reservation to this museum and several different groups were also arriving at the ...  more »
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Google
  • Great place to spend an couple if hours if you are at all interested in science or history (or both!) Some amazing equipment on display from Darwin and some other famous names. Opening hours are short to make sure you check!
  • Excellent variety of scientific instruments dating back centuries. Fascinating.
  • A lot of old instruments and science things. A bit of chaos without a guide.
  • Lovely to see the old computers
  • A great small museum, but a little dated in that you'll need to read all the detailed information on exhibits to make the most of it. It could make more of some astounding discoveries made here in the past.
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With over 150 hotels, B&Bs, inns, and self-catering facilities, Cambridge offers a wealth of lodging options for every taste and budget. While visiting this heritage-rich city, you can even enjoy the university experience by staying in a college room. These centrally located B&B rooms offer an inexpensive and convenient alternative to staying in the city's hotels. You can retrace the footsteps of the university's famous graduates, grab a meal in the college hall, get lost in the campus and hidden courtyards, and end the day with a drink in the college bar.
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