The Natural History Museum’s world famous iconic Diplodocus, ‘Dippy’, takes his first trip across Great Britain since 1905 this summer and this will be your one and only chance to see it, in person, in the Midlands. Budding palaeontologist or not, the 292 piece skeleton cast which arrived in London in 1905 is 21.3 metres long, 4.3 metres wide and 4.25 metres high and a true spectacle to behold that inspires awe and inspirational viewing for even the most dino-sceptic spectator. Also on display will be a velociraptor cast, a cast of a dinosaur nest and a real Great auk, the famous bird which became extinct the mid-19th century. Birmingham’s bird collection will also return to the museum for the first time in nearly 20 years showcasing the amazing diversity of modern birds, and how they evolved from one group of dinosaurs who survived extinction. The exhibition will be interactive and give specialist insight into prehistoric creatures that roamed our earth, long before we existed. There will also be chances for you to try your hand at a Dino Dig, delve deeper into Dippy’s past with curator’s tours, crafts and trails. Come on the 23rd June to catch a special Night at the Museum Screening too. Book tickets fast, unlike the main attraction, they won’t hang around for long. See here for the details of the Dippy drink & dine dinner party packages.

Sat 26 May to Sun 9 Sep 2018. Tickets are free but booking is advised: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk