The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill celebrates its 125th birthday

For 125 years, the Horniman has been bringing the world to Forest Hill. The much loved museum and gardens opened on 29 June 1901, and in 2026 it has been celebrating its anniversary with a year of events, new spaces and a heartfelt appeal for visitors' memories.

The Horniman was a gift to the people in perpetuity from tea trader and philanthropist Frederick John Horniman, who wanted to "bring the world to Forest Hill". Today its collection numbers 350,000 objects, specimens and artefacts from around the world, displayed in galleries including the World Gallery of anthropology, a music gallery and an acclaimed aquarium.

The celebrations began with a free 125th birthday party on 27 June, featuring more than 40 activities. There were three stages for local and young musicians, roaming music and dance, a storytelling tent, giant weaving and cyanotype printing, birthday hat making, children's games at the Smallympics, and a Horniman history display and memory map.

Further highlights of the anniversary year include a season of live concerts on the historic Bandstand, a special birthday edition of the Sunday market, the return of Music, Jerk 'n Tings and a schools event.

The museum has also invited visitors past and present to share their memories and photos, from long ago school trips and family outings to favourite objects and exhibitions. "The Horniman has welcomed generations of visitors since it opened on 29 June 1901, and we know what a special place it has in people's hearts," said chief executive Gordon Seabright.

The anniversary coincides with the Horniman's Nature + Love project, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. New and revitalised spaces are opening in the gardens and museum over the coming months, including Kusuma Nature Play, and the natural history gallery will reopen in early 2027 after redevelopment. Chair of trustees Michael Salter-Church said he was "even more excited to think about the next 125 years".

The 16 acres of gardens are a destination in their own right, with medicinal and dye gardens, a sound garden, a Butterfly House, an animal walk and sweeping views across London. The Horniman was Art Fund Museum of the Year in 2022.

The Horniman Museum and Gardens is on London Road, Forest Hill, SE23. For the anniversary programme, visit horniman.ac.uk/125.