Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, nestled within the University of Cambridge, is a true gem of history and discovery. Established way back in 1728 as the Woodwardian Museum, it holds the title of the oldest museum within the university's rich tapestry of institutions. What began as a modest collection of around 10,000 fossils, minerals, and rocks has now exploded into a staggering array of at least 2 million items.

Wandering through the museum feels like flipping through the pages of a 4.5 billion-year-old storybook. From the meteoritic building blocks that formed the planets to the myriad fossils showcasing the evolution of life in oceans, on land, and even in the skies, there's something awe-inspiring at every turn. It's not just a museum, though. It's also a major hub for teaching and research within the Department of Earth Sciences, making the Sedgwick Museum a true national treasure.

If you're planning a visit, be sure to check out their intriguing collection of meteorites. These celestial visitors offer a tangible connection to our solar system's distant past. The museum's layout is both engaging and educational, perfect for anyone with a budding interest in geology or paleontology. Don't forget to pause at the Charles Darwin exhibit, which adds another layer of historical significance to your visit.