The Tailor-Made Guide to Dinosaur Days Out in the UK
- Barry Pickard
- Aug 22
- 11 min read
Updated: Oct 11
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Regardless of this, please be advised that all opinions expressed in this blog post are genuine and authentically my own.
Author: Barry Pickard
Hi, I'm Barry, the owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries and I have been designing bespoke self-guided tours for adventurous and curious travellers since 2015. I am a history graduate with a passion for travel.
I created this blog to show, through my own adventures, how you can have an incredible travel experience as an independent traveller, giving you the information to navigate the world with confidence.
Contents
Where can you find real dinosaur footprints in the UK without travelling halfway around the world? The answer might surprise you—and it's closer than you think. Standing on a windswept beach in Skye, listening to the rhythmic crash of waves against ancient rock, I found myself staring at three-toed prints that hadn't seen daylight for 168 million years. The salty tang of sea air mixed with the earthy scent of exposed sediment as I traced the outline of a Megalosaurus track with my finger, feeling the weight of deep time beneath my feet.
After watching the latest Jurassic film with my son, I knew we needed more than CGI thrills—we needed real encounters with prehistoric giants. As someone who's spent many years exploring family-friendly attractions across the UK, I've discovered that you don't need a Hollywood budget or a trip to exotic locations to give your children an unforgettable dinosaur adventure. From London's iconic animatronics to Scotland's hidden fossil treasures, I've road-tested these dinosaur exhibits near me with my own family, noting everything from parking practicalities to which exhibits will hold a restless youngster's attention.
This isn't your typical "must-see" list compiled from press releases and Wikipedia. Every recommendation here comes from personal experience—the queues I've waited in, the gift shops I've navigated, and the moments of genuine wonder I've witnessed in my son's eyes. Whether you're planning a weekend break or looking for day trip inspiration, these dinosaur hotspots will transform your family into modern-day palaeontologists without breaking the bank.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if having dinosaur days out in the UK appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the UK’s dinosaur attractions, or indeed, a general tour of the UK.
Dinosaur Days Out in the UK
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is housed in a stunning neo-Gothic building, and brings together an impressive collection of zoological, geological, and paleontological specimens. From glittering minerals and ancient fossils to taxidermy animals and interactive exhibits, the museum offers something for all ages. Its soaring glass-and-iron roof floods the central hall with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming space that invites exploration and curiosity.
One of the highlights of my visit was the dinosaur gallery, which is both fascinating and beautifully presented. The museum is home to several iconic dinosaur skeletons, including a towering Tyrannosaurus rex, a Triceratops skull, and the impressive remains of an Iguanodon. There’s also a cast of the famous Megalosaurus, the first dinosaur ever named scientifically—fitting, since it was discovered in Oxfordshire. Seeing these ancient giants up close was a real thrill, and the detailed information alongside each exhibit made it easy to appreciate their significance. If you're a fan of dinosaurs, this part of the museum alone is worth the trip.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
After checking out the dinosaur museum exhibits, don’t miss the Pitt Rivers Museum, located just behind the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. It offers a fascinating and unconventional journey through human culture and history. Unlike traditional museums that group items by time period or region, the Pitt Rivers arranges its vast collection thematically—so you’ll find displays of masks, weapons, textiles, and tools from all over the world side by side. I found that the museum’s dimly lit, cabinet-filled galleries really drew my attention in and created an interesting atmosphere of discovery.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a treasure trove of history, science, and culture, all housed in a striking modern-meets-Victorian building in the heart of Edinburgh. The museum’s natural history galleries are particularly engaging, with interactive displays and life-sized models that bring prehistoric life vividly to life. A rotating programme of exhibitions ensures there’s always something new to discover, from ancient artefacts to cutting-edge science.
During our visit, we were drawn straight to the dinosaur exhibits, especially the Tyrannosaurs exhibition. It featured a cast of “Scotty,” one of the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever found. The display also explored the broader tyrannosaur family tree, including feathered relatives from Asia. Seeing these creatures up close, especially in such a well-curated setting, was a real highlight of my recent Edinburgh trip.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
From January 31st to September 14th 2026, there is going to be an exhibition called Giants, which is going to feature colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. There will be life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family friendly exhibition.
Natural History Museum, London
The Natural History Museum in London is one of the most iconic museums in the world, and its dinosaur gallery is a major reason why. Housed in a grand Romanesque building, the museum offers a journey through Earth’s history, with exhibits ranging from meteorites to mammals. The dinosaur section, located in the Blue Zone, is a permanent and free-to-visit gallery that draws millions of visitors each year.
I was especially excited to see the museum’s famous T. rex animatronic, which roars and moves in a way that’s both thrilling and slightly eerie. The gallery's dinosaur exhibits also includes the skull of a Triceratops, a cast of the first Iguanodon skeleton ever discovered, and the massive Scolosaurus. The museum a must-see for any dinosaur enthusiast.
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Jurassic World: The Experience, Battersea Power Station
Jurassic World: The Experience at Battersea Power Station is a full-throttle, immersive adventure that brings the blockbuster franchise roaring to life in central London. It’s hosted at NEON, a cutting-edge entertainment venue right next to the iconic Power Station.
There are 10 immersive zones, each designed to make you feel like you've landed on Isla Nublar and are starring in the smash-hit Hollywood franchise. You get to dodge life-size animatronic Velociraptors and a ferocious T-Rex, pet baby dinosaurs and explore the Genetic Creation Lab, all within one hour.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Book a ticket to experience Lift 109 in Battersea Power Station and experience a unique view of central London.
Blackpool Zoo
Blackpool Zoo offers more than just live animals—it also features a fantastic Dinosaur Safari, a walk-through experience that transports visitors back to the prehistoric era. The trail winds through lush landscaping, complete with sound effects and water features, creating an immersive environment that’s both educational and entertaining.
We wandered through the safari and came face-to-face with over 30 life-sized dinosaur models, including a fearsome Tyrannosaurus rex, soaring Pteranodons, and marine reptiles. The attention to detail in the models and the naturalistic setting made it feel like stepping into a lost world. It’s a brilliant addition to the zoo and a great way to engage younger visitors with palaeontology.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
The Dinosaur Safari area is next door to the elephant enclosure.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo is best known for its pandas (which have sadly returned to China) and its marching penguins, but it also hosts an outdoor dinosaur exhibition that’s well worth seeing. Some of the animatronic models move and roar, adding a dramatic flair to your zoo visit. It’s included in the standard admission and located at the top of the hill within the zoo grounds.
When I visited, I was genuinely impressed by the scale and realism of the dinosaurs. The T. rex was a standout, but there were also Velociraptors, Stegosaurus, and more. The setting among the trees and hills of the zoo added to the atmosphere, making it feel like a real-life Jurassic encounter.
Dino Park at Hetland
Dino Park at Hetland is a family-friendly attraction near Dumfries that combines outdoor adventure with prehistoric fun. It’s part of Hetland Garden Centre and features a Dino Walk, fossil dig, and even a Dino Mine. It’s designed with younger visitors in mind but offers plenty of charm for all ages, including big kids like me!
As I explored the park with my son, I was greeted by life-sized models of Triceratops, Velociraptors, and a towering T. rex. The interactive elements, like digging for fossils and listening to dino-themed stories in the Dino Den, made it a hands-on experience. It’s a great stop for families or anyone looking for a light-hearted dinosaur fix.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
The garden centre includes an excellent café-restaurant.
Don’t miss the dino shrubs at the entrance!
Great North Museum: Hancock
The Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle is a free, family-friendly museum that covers everything from ancient Egypt to local wildlife. Its natural history galleries are particularly strong, with a focus on fossils and prehistoric life. The museum is well laid out and easy to navigate, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon visit.
I was especially drawn to the full-sized T. rex replica in the Fossil Stories gallery. It’s an impressive centrepiece, surrounded by other prehistoric creatures like Ichthyosaurs and marine reptiles. The displays are informative without being overwhelming, and the museum’s interactive elements make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
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Kelvingrove Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow is a beautifully curated space that blends art, history, and science under one roof. Set in a grand Victorian building surrounded by parkland, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits—from Renaissance paintings to ancient Egyptian artefacts. Its natural history section includes fossils, taxidermy, and geological specimens, making it a rewarding stop for curious minds of all ages.
Currently, the museum is not exhibiting any dinosaurs, but it is worth keeping an eye on upcoming events, because Kelvingrove has hosted temporary dinosaur events in the past. For example, the museum welcomed a visit from “Dippy” the Diplodocus during its UK tour, and also an impressive temporary exhibition featuring a Tyrannosaurus rex, which I was lucky enough to catch. If there are no temporary exhibitions, don’t worry, because the museum’s permanent displays include fossils and information about Scotland’s ancient past. Even without the headline skeletons, the museum’s atmosphere and variety made it a memorable visit.
Ulster Museum
The Ulster Museum in Belfast offers a wide-ranging collection that spans art, history, and natural sciences. It’s located in the Botanic Gardens and is free to enter, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages. The museum’s Discovery Centres are especially engaging for families, with hands-on activities and themed zones.
One of the highlights of my visit was the natural history section, where I came face-to-face with dinosaur skeletons and fossils. It’s a great place to learn and play, especially if you’re travelling with kids.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Make sure to plan in some time to visit the Botanic Gardens after checking out the museum - the Belfast Tropical Ravine and The Palm House are both filled with beautiful flora.
An Corran Beach, Skye
An Corran Beach near Staffin on the Isle of Skye is one of the few places in the UK where you can see real dinosaur footprints in situ. The beach is scenic and peaceful, with views of the Quiraing and the Sound of Raasay and is the most remote place on this list where to find dinosaurs. Access is via a short walk from the car park, but timing your visit with the tides is essential.
Standing on the beach and spotting the three-toed prints of a Megalosaurus was a surreal experience. These footprints, over 168 million years old, are embedded in the rock and visible at low tide. It’s a powerful reminder of the island’s prehistoric past and a must-see for any dinosaur lover.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Aim to arrive at low tide. The tide tables can be viewed on the BBC website.
Staffin Dinosaur Museum
Just a short drive from An Corran Beach, the Staffin Dinosaur Museum is a small but fascinating stop. Founded by local fossil hunter Dugald Ross, the museum houses an impressive collection of bones, footprints, and fossils found on Skye. It’s a passion project that has grown into a respected centre for palaeontology.
I loved the personal touch of this museum—many of the fossils were discovered by Dugald himself, and the stories behind them are just as compelling as the specimens. THis must be one of the quaintest dinosaur museums in the UK. From Stegosaurus bones to theropod trackways, the collection is rich and varied. It’s the perfect complement to a visit to the nearby dinosaur footprints.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Kilt Rock is just a stones through away from the museum, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit this spectacular waterfall.
Dinosaur Accommodation
Coylumbridge Resort Hotel: A Dinosaur Paradise in the Scottish Highlands
Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the Coylumbridge Resort Hotel offers something truly special for dinosaur-obsessed families. As you approach this family-friendly resort, you'll be greeted by an impressive collection of life-sized dinosaur models positioned around the hotel grounds, creating an immediate sense of excitement that sets the tone for your prehistoric adventure. The hotel's commitment to the dinosaur theme extends beyond mere decoration – these carefully crafted models provide fantastic photo opportunities and serve as an introduction to the Jurassic world that awaits inside.
What truly sets Coylumbridge apart is its unique dinosaur-themed mini-golf course within the Funhouse, where families can putt their way through a prehistoric landscape complete with towering T-Rex models and other ancient creatures. Combined with the hotel's excellent family facilities, including spacious family rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to the stunning Scottish Highlands, it makes for an ideal base when exploring Scotland's dinosaur attractions. The resort's location also puts you within reach of other family-friendly activities in the Cairngorms, making it a perfect choice for families who want to combine their love of dinosaurs with outdoor adventures. For families planning a dinosaur-themed getaway, securing your stay at this distinctive resort ensures you'll have prehistoric fun right on your doorstep.
Conclusion
From the grandeur of London's Natural History Museum to the intimate charm of Skye's Staffin Dinosaur Museum, the UK offers an incredible diversity of dinosaur experiences that go far beyond what most families expect. I've watched my son's imagination ignite as he’s stood beneath towering T. rex skeletons, traced ancient footprints on remote beaches, and dug for fossils in purpose-built excavation sites. These aren't just tourist attractions—they're gateways to scientific wonder that can spark a lifelong passion for natural history. The beauty of exploring dinosaurs in the UK lies in the variety: you can combine a day at the zoo with prehistoric encounters, turn a city break into a palaeontological adventure, or discover that some of the world's most significant fossil discoveries are hiding in plain sight on our own doorsteps. Each location offers something unique, whether it's the cutting-edge animatronics that make children gasp or the quiet thrill of finding real fossils embedded in our landscape.
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on exciting days out in the UK, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Which dinosaur attraction will you visit first with your family—share your prehistoric adventure plans in the comments below!
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if having dinosaur days out in the UK appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the UK’s dinosaur attractions, or indeed, a general tour of the UK.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
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