Unearthing the science, stories and local discoveries that shape what we know about Dinosaurs today.
A new exhibition opening this summer, Banbury Museum & Gallery invites visitors to step into the world of dinosaur myth, science, and discovery, and to uncover the vital role North Oxfordshire has played in shaping our understanding of life millions of years ago.
Every dinosaur ever seen, on film, TV, in books or exhibitions, has, at least in part, been a work of the imagination. Since the first dinosaurs were identified, there has been a desire to put flesh on the bones and a glint in the eye of these amazing animals.
Dinosaurium: Reimagined Creatures explores our relationship with the history of dinosaur discoveries. From ancient fossil finds that inspired legends of dragons to iconic film franchises like Jurassic Park and the latest scientific breakthroughs happening in our area now. Visitors will discover fascinating objects and fossils, engaging stories and learn through interactive hands-on activities.
This exhibition also celebrates some of North Oxfordshire’s rich paleontological history. The region is home to some of the earliest scientifically documented dinosaur discoveries and continues to be a site of significant recent finds. These internationally important contributions to science underscore the significance of our local landscape in unlocking the secrets of Earth’s distant past.
“The discovery of dinosaur bones and other ‘strange creatures’ have fascinated us for centuries, but the story of how we discovered them, how we’ve interpreted them, and what they continue to teach us is still evolving’
Says Exhibitions Manager Dale Johnston. “We’re especially excited to highlight North Oxfordshire’s unique place in that story, offering our community a personal connection to scientific discovery.”
The exhibition also delves into the world of fossil hunters, whose meticulous work fuelled scientific progress and showcases animals that coexisted with dinosaurs and are still alive today. This exhibition will encourage visitors to think about how dinosaurs have been presented and imagined through history, from 19th-century illustrations to blockbuster films.
With family friendly and interactive experiences, get up close and personal with our prehistoric past. Handle fascinating fossils and touch real dinosaur bones. Whether you’re a curious child, a budding palaeontologist, or simply fascinated by the natural world, Dinosarium offers something for everyone.
Exhibition Details:
- Dates: Opens Saturday 19th July and runs to Sunday 11th January 2025.
- Location: Banbury Museum & Gallery, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury OX16 2PQ.
- Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-4.00pm, Sunday 11am -3pm
- Tickets: On sale now,booking in advance recommended
Ticket Information: For further information on ticketing and visiting Banbury Museum & Gallery, see our website. www.banburymuseum.org
Adult: £5.00
Child: £2.50 (under 5’s free)
Concessions incl. students, over 65’s, Mill Members and unwaged £3.00
Art Fund members £2.50
Unsold tickets will be made available on the day, but we strongly advise booking prior to your visit, especially at weekends, school holidays and other busy times.
About Banbury Museum & Gallery:
We are a family friendly museum at the heart of Banbury’s vibrant Canalside. The museum features two permanent galleries exploring the history of Banbury and its waterways in addition to the Pye Gallery which features an ever-changing programme of temporary exhibitions.
Discover local artists, crafts, and souvenirs in our museum shop. And visit our onsite café partners Connie’s @ The Museum canalside for homemade lunch, snacks, cakes and coffee.
