Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

This museum is a bit of a hidden gem really. It's quite an unassuming building from the outside, but is surprisingly large inside, with 3 floors. Entry is free. It's an interestingly-designed building, with the first floor being visible from the second floor. This means that some of the larger and taller pieces (such as the impressive totem pole) within the museum can be seen from a height, which offers a different perspective. There are some great artefacts on display here, and a wide range of cultures and countries are represented. There is also plenty of information to read and learn from. The atmosphere inside the museum is quiet and relaxed. There are customer toilets on a few of the floors, and there is also a great gift shop on the ground floor. The staff member working there was very friendly and happy to help. It's a really good museum and totally worth visiting.

Friendly museum with a diverse range of artifacts to explore. Treasure hunt sheets available to give kids a challenge. Split over three floors with different themes in each part. Free entry.

Another free museum that offers up history through the perspective of various ancient and not so ancient civilisations across the spectrum of time. The museum covers the ground floor and the upstairs floor, with the latter being the most fascinating as there is a wealth of artifacts from some of the oldest countries on earth and it's always a pleasure to consume knowledge about the everyday lives of different civilisations scattered across the earth. There is a very pleasant and relaxed atmosphere about this museum so you can take your time and absorb all there is to see here so definitely make a beeline for it if you happen to be in Cambridge and are looking for things to see or do.

If you're looking for a place where you can immerse yourself in the diversity of cultures and history, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge is an excellent choice. Although relatively small, the museum impresses with the richness of its exhibits – from prehistoric tools to art from Oceania and Africa, as well as fascinating everyday objects from around the world. The exhibitions are very well organized and clearly described, making even a short visit (about 1–2 hours) both informative and enjoyable. Special highlights include artifacts related to James Cook’s voyages and collections from indigenous cultures. The museum is particularly family-friendly – many exhibits spark children's imagination, and the peaceful atmosphere encourages exploration. Another great advantage is that admission is free, and its location in the center of Cambridge makes it easily accessible during a stroll around the city. The friendly and helpful staff further enhance the experience, often sharing additional interesting facts. In summary – this is definitely a place worth visiting, whether you are a history enthusiast, a travel lover, or simply looking for an inspiring stop in the heart of Cambridge.

Plenty of fascinating exhibits on human history from all over the world, including canoes, armours, ornaments, statues and totem poles. There's also a great little shop with some cool souvenirs.

A fascinating glimpse into human history, from ancient tools to striking ethnographic collections. The exhibits are well-curated and thought-provoking, highlighting both local discoveries and artifacts from around the world. It’s compact enough to explore in an hour or two, yet rich in detail — a hidden gem for anyone curious about our shared past.

Love this wonderful place, accessible in all ways, humorous , staff are lovely and it's great free resource. If you are in the area, shopping or having lunch and cocktails go and have a mooch round. Make sure you see the rude pot description, giggling is accepted! There are a multitude of really interesting artifacts.

We went looking for the Sedqwick Museum of Earth Sciences and found this too. It is actually at the opposite side of that museum at the arched gate. If you go right instead of left, you will find the door to the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology. This is also free to the public and consists of a few floors of exhibits. When you come in, you will be greeted by a receptionist who will explain what you will see. The store is also there for you to purchase any nice trinkets for home. On the first floor is an introduction to the 2 sciences and local historic finds in Cambridge. The second and third floors are an open concept display. The reason for this is the huge totem which reaches to the ceiling. The exhibits are broken down by country or group of people. Take your time as you could easily miss the smallest of details. On the lower floor, are more complete collections. You will also find the larger displays here since it is an open floor. Please be aware there are some displays that contain nudity. This is actually normal for anthropology studies, so don’t be too shocked by this. It is a great learning experience to see how other cultures live, not our own. On the upper floor we found makeshift displays so you can see some of the items in storage. There are also more regular displays for review. They also have murals and graffiti on the walls that are called ‘People and Stuff, a subversive collaboration.’ See what was and what is for our humanity as a whole. Maybe discover what will be as well from learning the past.

We enjoyed our browse here, and thought the displays were well mounted and interesting. Loads of artifacts from digs in England as well as around the world!

The University Museum Of Archaeology & Anthropology, on Downing street, is home to a rather modest collection of artefacts. The entrance to this museum is rather historic as is most of Cambridge. Although this museum is small the items encased within it's walls are interesting and some even leave you staring for a while. This, nor any museum in Cambridge can out shine free museums in, let's say, London but we must appreciate it for what it is. If you don't allow yourself to expect too much from this museum then you shall not be too disappointed.