Myths and Monsters

Been a bit busy recently with work and the children's half-term. One of the things we did during that week off was visit the wonderful Horniman Museum in Forest Hill, South-East London. We've always loved this great venue which has so many different kinds of spaces that you could easily spend all day here - it has wonderful collections of objects focussing on people and cultures from around the world, beautifully kept gardens with stunning views over London and the small menagarie of animals next to the picnic tables. There are some other great children-friendly activities there too - our children like the interactive Music Room, the aquarium (with seahorses, yey!) and the various 'hands-on' sessions.

The museum is free with one temporary exhibition which is ticketed - we went to see the 'Myths and Monsters' exhibition, newly-opened on 13 February. The Horniman blurb describes it thus:

"Cyclops, unicorn, yeti, dragon, the chimera… are these creatures real or imagined? Take a journey into the strange world of Myths and Monsters and unravel the truth behind universal legends and myths. Discover the origin of the Cyclops, the links between dragons and the dinosaurs, and why the yeti is the monster most likely to be real."

The exhibition has several life-size animatronic models of the mythical creatures, along with photographs and displays. My 7 year old was able to engage with the displays but my 5 year old was more interested in the colouring area in the exhibition room! The museum is well worth a visit, especially with children. I have to say though, non-parents may wish to avoid school holiday time unless they are feeling strong.  Here below are some photos I took at the exhibition - enjoy if you go.

Myths and Monsters at the Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ. It is open daily 10.30am to 5.30pm, until 5 September 2010. Tickets cost £5 for adults; £2.50 for children; children under 3 Free, Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £13. For more details visit the museum’s website.