Dinosaur Isle Museum will mark its 25th anniversary with a day of family-friendly fossil fun next week.
The Sandown attraction is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate its milestone birthday on Monday 10th August 2026, with activities taking place both inside the museum and on the museum lawn from 10am to 4pm.
Fossils on display outside
Gazebos will be set up outside featuring displays of Isle of Wight fossils, giving visitors the opportunity to get a closer look at some of the Island’s remarkable prehistoric finds.
Local artist Jasmine Ward will also be running dinosaur-themed art activities throughout the day.
Talks and hands-on activities
Inside the museum, families will be able to take part in a range of hands-on experiences, including opportunities to discover shark teeth and other fossils, alongside a programme of talks from the museum’s scientists at 11am and 1pm.
The event forms part of the museum’s silver anniversary celebrations, with a larger commemorative event planned for the autumn.
David Button, curator and general manager of Dinosaur Isle Museum, said,
“We’re delighted to be celebrating Dinosaur Isle’s 25th birthday with our visitors and local community.
“The museum has spent a quarter of a century sharing the Isle of Wight’s internationally important fossil heritage, and this event is a chance for families to get involved, discover something new and celebrate the incredible prehistoric story of our Island.”
Museum expands talks programme
The museum has also announced an expansion of its regular public talks programme.
Following a successful trial, talks from the museum’s experts and visiting scientists will not take place daily at 11am and 1 pm every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Jones-Evans: A fantastic achievement
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chair of the economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee, said,
“Dinosaur Isle is one of the Isle of Wight’s most distinctive attractions and an important part of our cultural and educational offering.
“Reaching 25 years is a fantastic achievement, and I am delighted to see the museum continuing to inspire young people and families while showcasing the Island’s world-famous fossil heritage.”
The birthday event is included with normal museum admission and is expected to appeal to dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
For more information, visit the website.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
