Business Details
42 Years
experience
Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester, Dorset
Established in 1984, our museum pioneered innovative approaches to dinosaur education, becoming Dorchester's foremost visitor attraction. Founded by museologists Michael and Jackie Ridley, we introduced interactive displays and the globally adopted 'Feely Box' technique, blending education with hands-on engagement. Recognised as Britain's original dinosaur-focused museum, we've hosted millions of visitors and featured on major children's television programmes.As an independent institution, we reinvest ticket and shop sales to enhance visitor experiences. Our work has inspired museums worldwide and earned accolades like the European Museum of the Year Award nomination.
Services
Dinosaur Exhibits
Interactive Displays
Educational Programmes
School Visits
Gift Shop
Multimedia Presentations
Tactile Exhibits
Special Events
Group Bookings
Dinosaur DNA Hunt
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience creating engaging dinosaur exhibits.
- Our museum pioneered interactive displays and the 'Feely Box' technique used worldwide.
- We offer exclusive dinosaur DNA hunt events for educational entertainment.
- Our team includes expert museologists with international recognition.
- We provide year-round educational programmes for schools and groups.
What people say
Interactive and informative
Great day out for all the family
Excellent educational resource
Memorable experience for children
Knowledgeable staff
Services
Dinosaur Exhibits
Our life-sized dinosaur reconstructions include iconic species like T. rex and Stegosaurus. Visitors can touch exhibits to understand prehistoric anatomy. Fossils and skeletons provide scientific context for all ages.
Interactive Displays
Multimedia exhibits explain dinosaur history through engaging technology. The pioneering 'Feely Box' allows tactile exploration of replica fossils without visual cues.
Educational Programmes
Curriculum-linked workshops available for all key stages. Expert-led sessions cover palaeontology, evolution, and Jurassic Coast geology. Resources include dinosaur DNA hunt activities.
Special Events
Seasonal events like Dinosaur DNA Week feature interactive challenges. Temporary exhibitions explore specific dinosaur species or palaeontological discoveries with expert talks.
Gift Shop
Official merchandise includes dinosaur models, books, and educational toys. Telephone orders available for UK delivery. Products support museum conservation efforts.
People
Michael Ridley
Founder
Co-founder with over 40 years of museology experience. Pioneered interactive display techniques now used globally. Developed educational programmes for schools and universities.
Jackie Ridley
Founder
Co-founder specialising in tactile exhibit design. Created the 'Feely Box' concept for sensory learning. Featured in multiple television documentaries about dinosaur education.
Questions
What are the museum's opening times?
Open daily 10am-4pm April to October. Winter opening weekends and school holidays only. Check website for current details.
Are there educational resources for schools?
We offer curriculum-linked workshops, guided tours, and dinosaur DNA hunt activities for all key stages.
Can I book group visits?
School and group visits available year-round with advance booking by phone.
Is the museum accessible for disabled visitors?
Fully accessible ground floor exhibits. Wheelchair access and accessible toilets available. Assistance dogs welcome.
What special events are available?
Seasonal events include Dinosaur DNA Week, temporary exhibitions, and themed activity days during school holidays.
Reviews (5)
Brendan Hampshire
Jan 23, 2022
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The museum is okay, a little tired and worn around the edges, but very informative and interesting. Staff were lovely. Value for money is poor.
Dawid M.
Jan 11, 2022
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Unbelievable poor display compare to the entry price. Strongly not recommended !!! Two floors of ordinary flat converted to so called "museum". Avoid.
Fam Arnold
Oct 09, 2021
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8.99 is an incredibly large price for what you get. Closed at 4pm, so we only got 35 minutes. Shame would have been worth an hour but not at that price; felt exploitative
Stuart Watt
Sep 29, 2021
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My 9 year old daughter is a Dino freak. And it was the best day ever. Knowledgeable, friendly staff. Great info and design.
Colin Hemfrey
Sep 14, 2021
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Excellent small museum packed with information and displays for all ages. Top marks for having all their video screens operative, a first this year for me (and I've been to a lot of museums). Well worth 5 stars!!
