What is an orrery? Why is the clock chiming 13? Why would you collect and display a set of plaster horses’ teeth, some green spectacles and several hundred pocket calculators?
Join us for a tour of the Whipple’s collection in 10 objects, featuring spectacular instruments, fascinating scientific stories, and links to some of Cambridge’s most famous names.
Meet at the reception point in the Main Gallery.
What is an orrery? Why is the clock chiming 13? Why would you collect and display a set of plaster horses’ teeth, some green spectacles and several hundred pocket calculators?
Join us for a tour of the Whipple’s collection in 10 objects, featuring spectacular instruments, fascinating scientific stories, and links to some of Cambridge’s most famous names.
Meet at the reception point in the Main Gallery.
Book your free tickets here!
This guided tour explores how teeth and smiles have been represented in art, from symbols depicting undesirability in pre-modern painting to today’s idealised 'toothy smile', revealing how the mouth carries powerful cultural meaning.
Craving a cosy space to be creative, unwind and meet new people? Our Crafternoon is your chance to slow down, get your creative juices flowing and draw inspiration from our collection.
This month we're drawing inspiration from local contemporary artists and Cambridge Open Studios. Create a collaborative piece using prompts from your fellow participants.
All skill levels are welcome, adults 18+ only.
From the Fitzwilliam’s own collections and the Cambridge University Herbarium, to the archives of Kew Gardens and the V&A, Dr Glassman uncovers how this striking plant has been collected, studied, and celebrated across the UK. Discover what a single species can reveal about artistic inspiration, scientific curiosity, and the intertwined histories of museums and botanical institutions.
Facilitated by experienced artist Cläre Basel - explore connections between artworks and objects from our collection and discover new-found connections between one another.
Creative Connections is for adults aged 65 and over.
A film that explores the historical legacy of Black presence in Cambridge, featuring personal stories from scholars and residents.
The screening will be followed by a thought-provoking discussion with community participants and film producers Dr Kenny Monrose and Seetha Tan.
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.
