Great North Museum: Hancock

The Great North Museum: Hancock is a natural history museum in Newcastle upon Tyne featuring fossils, minerals, preserved animals, and archaeological finds from expeditions and local discoveries. The collections span multiple exhibition spaces with displays ranging from rocks and bones to ancient artifacts and geological formations.

The museum opened in 1884 from collections gathered by the Natural History Society of Northumbria, with the naturalist John Hancock contributing significantly to its early development. This founding reflects how Victorian-era researchers and collectors brought their discoveries together into a public space.

The institution reflects the region's deep connection to its natural surroundings and how collectors shaped local scientific understanding over time. Visitors encounter stories of Northern England's geological character and learn why these discoveries mattered to people who lived here.

The building sits on Barras Bridge with good public transport access and wheelchair access throughout all areas. Entry is free, making it easy to visit at your own pace during weekday or weekend hours.

The research library on the upper floor holds rare handwritten documents and original scientific papers focused on Northern England's natural history. This collection remains actively used by scholars and researchers studying the region's geological and biological heritage.

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Inception: 1884

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Operator: Tyne & Wear Archives & Museum

Part of: North East Museums

Address: Great North Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PT

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-17:00; Saturday 10:00-16:00; Sunday 11:00-16:00

Phone: +441912226765

Email: info@greatnorthmuseum.org.uk

Website: https://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 54.98000,-1.61300

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00