The collection is divided into a number of Departments:-

Department of Palaeontology

Our collection places most emphasis on British fossils, particularly those from Kent and the south-east. The fossils in our collection range from two billion year old algae to Neolithic tools dating from only a few thousand years ago.

Department of Geology

This holds our collection of rocks, minerals and gemstones from around the world. This Department also hosts our growing collection of extra-terrestrial objects such as meteorites and tektites.

Botanical Department

Part of our 'Living Fossil' collection, all of the plants maintained here are survivors of the age of the dinosaurs and help our understanding of the eco-systems that existed millions of years ago.

Department of Zoology

The active development of this Department is currently suspended due to lack of space but it is hoped that our planned move to larger premises will enable us to introduce displays that will complement our existing 'Living Fossils' collection with animals whose ancestors date back to the dawn of life itself.

The first display in this programme has been started and contains specimens of Triops longicaudatus a relative of the Horseshoe Crab that dates back to the Triassic Period. Click here for further information on this unique animal

Display Department

As well as looking after the many pictures, paintings and visual exhibits within the museum this is where many of our display models are designed and constructed. See dioramas of past life, a model of the ship that Frobisher used in his search for the north-west passage, a north sea oil rig, open cast quarry and many more.

Library and Resource Centre

The library contains over 8000 items including books, periodicals, news articles, maps, together with brochures and leaflets of geologically famous localities around the world.

The resource centre contains a number of computer based packages, together with audio/video cassettes and DVDs covering many aspects of geology. Research materials are held appropriate to all ages from the kindergarten child interested in dinosaurs to the serious undergraduate studying for a degree in the Earth Sciences.

For prospective students of geology, prospectuses on all universities and colleges around the UK currently providing courses in the geological sciences are also available.

Click here to view our Collection & Disposal Policy.

Click here for information on our Schools Loan Service.

Click here to see our photogallery of some of the fossils in our Palaeontology Department.

Click here to see our photogallery of some of our rocks, minerals, crystals, and gemstones.

Click here to see our photogallery of some of the Living Fossils in our Botanical Collection.

Click here to see our photogallery of geologically related and inspired landscapes.