Discover Dinosaurs at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

Running until 21 April, Cretaceous Horsham takes you through the fascinating story of how dinosaurs came to be discovered.

We follow the story of Sussex physician Gideon Mantell and how he made one of the most significant discoveries leading to our understanding of evolution right on our doorstep. As well as exploring the events leading to the classification of dinosaurs, the exhibition uncovers the species that would have been found walking the District during the early Cretaceous Period. Fossils, artefacts and artworks from our own collections, and loans from other museums will be on show within the exhibition.

We had a special behind the scenes look at some of the exhibits

Visitors can learn about our very own Horshamosaurus and get up close to the Great Horsham Iguanadon – discovered by George Bax Holmes in 1840, right in the heart of Horsham. Make your mind up about the heroes and villains in the Mantell Story, which is brought to life by some fantastic loans from the Natural History Museum, Booth Museum, Royal Society and private lenders.

Don’t miss the exhibition

In the midst of a real conflict between religious and scientific theories at the time, the story of the discovery of dinosaurs feels cinematic. When the Crystal Palace dinosaurs were unveiled in 1854, ‘dinomania’ swept Victorian society as their world view shifted to the understanding that the most fantastical creatures had once inhabited the earth. Sussex and Horsham were key places driving this scientific revolution.

Stepping into the Museum is a great way for visitors of all ages to feel connected with the awesome creatures walking our local  landscape millions of years ago.

Get hands on with the Children’s Trail

Budding palaeontologists can enjoy our themed trail around the Museum, and a dinosaur discovery challenge in the exhibitions space. There are two tactile areas within the exhibition; a bespoke ceramic display explores the shape of some of the dinosaurs that were our residents, and another area uncovers the possibilities of different textures of dinosaur skins.

See something new every visit

Our Museum is packed full of historic artefacts and works of art. The Museum also features a children’s gallery with exhibits for younger visitors, trails and dressing up.

Following the success of last year’s Museum Late events, we will be inviting you to join us at the Museum on selected evenings throughout the year.

The evening openings are a perfect opportunity to see the exhibits after hours and enjoy free entertainment and refreshments in our beautiful walled garden.