Rotunda Museum

The museum was founded by William Smith, known as the ‘Father of English Geology.’ Smith’s contributions to geological mapping and stratigraphy are central to the museum’s exhibits. The Rotunda was constructed to house his collection and to showcase the geology of the Yorkshire coast, an area rich in fossils and geological formations. Over time, the museum has expanded its collection and now offers insights into the area’s broader natural history.

The Rotunda Museum holds significant cultural value, highlighting Scarborough’s role in the development of geological sciences. The museum’s exhibits provide an understanding of how geological processes have shaped the landscape. It also connects visitors with the prehistoric life that once inhabited the region, offering a window into millions of years of natural history.

What to see at the Rotunda Museum

Visitors to the Rotunda Museum can expect a range of geological exhibits focusing on the Jurassic period. The museum’s Speeton Plesiosaur, a marine reptile fossil, is one of the key highlights. Other notable displays include fossilised plants, ammonites and dinosaur footprints found along the Yorkshire coast.

The museum’s circular gallery features a stratigraphic column designed by William Smith. This column visually represents the layers of rock formations found in the area. Interactive displays and informative panels accompany the exhibits, making it accessible for both adults and children.

Visiting the Rotunda Museum

The Rotunda Museum is at the southern end of the town centre, not far from the beach. It is easily accessible by public transport, with buses stopping outside and Scarborough railway station about a 10-minute walk away.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday (closed on Mondays and Sundays).

The admission fee is valid for a full year and also includes entry to Scarborough Art Gallery. Entry is free of charge with the National Art Pass.

Allow 1–2 hours for a visit to the Rotunda Museum.