Dinosaur Isle Museum Announces Summer Programme Of Fossil Activities And Talks

Families visiting Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown this summer can take part in a packed programme of fossil handling sessions, science activities and expert talks during the school holidays.

The museum has announced events running from Wednesday, July 29 to Friday, August 28, giving visitors the chance to handle real Isle of Wight fossils, meet museum scientists and learn more about the Island's prehistoric past.

The attraction's popular Fossil Lab Hatch will be open every day from 10am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, allowing visitors to get hands-on with genuine local fossils while speaking directly with the scientists who study them.

On weekdays, families can also take part in special gallery activities and try their hand at becoming palaeontologists.

On Mondays and Fridays, visitors can search for fossil shark teeth, while Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays will offer the chance to use fingerprints to explore their place in the evolutionary history of humans.

Museum scientists will also host talks every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1pm in the Education Room, with informal flash talks about the museum's collections potentially taking place in the galleries throughout the day.

Dinosaur Isle Museum curator Dr David Button said:

"We're looking forward to welcoming visitors throughout the summer holidays and giving people the chance to get closer to the Island's incredible fossil heritage.

"From handling real fossils to meeting our scientists and taking part in family activities, there's plenty happening for visitors of all ages.

"The Isle of Wight is one of the best places in Europe to discover prehistoric life, and we hope visitors leave with a greater appreciation of the remarkable discoveries that continue to be made here."

Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chair of the Isle of Wight Council's economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee, added:

"Dinosaur Isle is an internationally recognised museum and one of the Island's most important cultural attractions.

"Its collection has been described by experts as second only to that of London's Natural History Museum in the UK, making it a truly exceptional asset for the Isle of Wight."

The museum, on Culver Parade in Sandown, is home to more than 35,000 fossils and geological specimens, many discovered on the Island.

The Isle of Wight is regarded as one of Europe's richest locations for dinosaur remains, and the museum says its fully air-conditioned building also offers visitors a chance to stay cool during warmer weather.

All activities are included with normal museum admission.