At the Whipple, our collection is brimming with objects that highlight LGBTQ+ histories and themes, showcasing the remarkable contributions of individuals and their stories throughout history. Each tour is uniquely crafted by our specially trained volunteer guides, who bring their own perspectives and creativity to the experience.
Discover the remarkable contributions made to the history of science by pioneering Black scientists. Learn about medical breakthroughs, moon missions, advances in agriculture, and the art of teaching taxidermy.
Meet at the reception point in the Main Gallery.
Ever fancied sketching among telescopes, globes, and ancient scientific instruments? Join us for our second Whipple Scribble of the year! Step into Cambridge University's home for the history of science for a relaxed, creative evening.
Whether you're a seasoned artist or just curious to try something new, all abilities are welcome at this after-hours sketching session. Free to join, it’s a relaxed way to connect with fellow creatives in the Cambridge area.
A Land Where Our Monuments Bloom brings together archival footage of LGBTQ+ pride movements from 1979 to the present alongside contemporary material, celebrating queer history, visibility, and community.
The film was developed by artist Alexander Augustus through the Artist in Residence programme for Cambridge Pride 2025 and is now being screened for the first time as part of this year’s Pride celebrations. Following the screening Alexander will participate in a Q&A session.
Places are limited, so booking is required.
A Land Where Our Monuments Bloom brings together archival footage of LGBTQ+ pride movements from 1979 to the present alongside contemporary material, celebrating queer history, visibility, and community.
This year’s theme, Whatever the Weather at Cambridge University Botanic Garden, invites visitors to submit photographs captured in the Garden during any season and from any year, inspired by the changing light, warmth, skies, colour and atmosphere that shape the landscape throughout the year. Entries close on 31 October.
Drop in and be inspired by the displays and objects that our staff love.
Giant deer, fossil fish teeth, the rocks that built Cambridge... just some of the specimens on display that our staff can't wait to discuss with you. Beware, their enthusiasm is infectious!
Drop into our shop to reserve your free place on the tour.
Ages 12+
Giant deer, fossil fish teeth, the rocks that built Cambridge... just some of the specimens on display that our staff can't wait to discuss with you. Beware, their enthusiasm is infectious!
Drop into our shop to reserve your free place on the tour.
Ages 12+
We are proud to present our LGBTQ+ tour as part of the University of Cambridge Museums 'Bridging Binaries' programme.
It is hard to say for certain that a 19th century scientist was queer just from their memoirs. It is difficult to know whether they were in a romantic relationship with the ‘secretary’ they lived with, or were they just that – a secretary? In the same era, were the two women who lived together for thirty years really just ‘close friends’? Looking for gender queerness in museum collections can be challenging.
We are proud to present our LGBTQ+ tour as part of the University of Cambridge Museums 'Bridging Binaries' programme.
It is hard to say for certain that a 19th century scientist was queer just from their memoirs. It is difficult to know whether they were in a romantic relationship with the ‘secretary’ they lived with, or were they just that – a secretary? In the same era, were the two women who lived together for thirty years really just ‘close friends’? Looking for gender queerness in museum collections can be challenging.
