Immerse yourself in a fascinating realm of deep-sea discovery in Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures at the Horniman Museum and Gardens, opening on 13 February 2026.
From piloting a giant submarine to exploring ocean mysteries through hands-on activities and getting up close to living marine creatures, this engaging, interactive exhibition invites visitors to discover the marvels of the deep.
On display in Europe for the first time, Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures is inspired by Jules Verne’s classic novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas. Visitors will step aboard the legendary Nautilus submarine and embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Command the Nautilus submarine – take the helm, scan the ocean through the periscope, and learn how submarines navigate vast bodies of water.
Uncover hidden mysteries – crawl through shipwrecks, decode ancient secrets in Atlantis, and weave through towering kelp forests.
Meet the creatures of the deep – come face-to-face with a giant squid and spot camouflaged reef creatures as you explore vibrant underwater worlds.
Dive into interactive challenges – collect deep-sea specimens, test your skills as a submariner, and see if you have what it takes to explore the unknown.
Six aquarium tanks – added to the exhibition by the Horniman – will give visitors an exciting opportunity to get up close to real marine life and truly feel like they are exploring the underwater world. The Horniman has also partnered with Octonauts to bring this aquarium area to life with ‘creature reports’ about the species on display and their habitats.
Designed for adventurers of all ages, Voyage to the Deep blends science, storytelling, and adventure into a dynamic experience that invites families, students, and curiosity seekers to discover the wonders of the deep sea.
Hartley George, the Horniman’s Senior Aquarium Curator, said: ‘We’re so excited to welcome visitors to Voyage to the Deep, where they can embark on their own underwater adventure. The Horniman Aquarium team has created some truly magical live displays that will inspire curiosity and awe in children and adults alike.’
Produced by the Australian National Maritime Museum, this imaginative exhibition is toured internationally by Flying Fish, a renowned producer of travelling exhibitions.
Jay Brown, Principal & Managing Director of Flying Fish, said: ‘At Flying Fish, we strive to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, and our partnership with the Australian National Maritime Museum allows us to do just that. Through imaginative technology and masterful storytelling, this exhibition is a multi-sensory experience that transports visitors into a world where exploration and imagination merge to create something extraordinary.’
Dr. Peter Hobbins, Head of Knowledge at the Australian National Maritime Museum, said: ‘Jules Verne’s novel was imaginative, encouraging wonder at the unknown world beneath our seas. There’s still so much we need to learn about the underwater world, and Voyage to the Deep will inspire the next generation of undersea explorers. Dive in!’
Voyage to the Deep is open at the Horniman Museum and Gardens from Friday 13 February until Sunday 1 November 2026. The Horniman will also host a special programme of events and activities linked to the exhibition, including a free Octonauts trail around the Museum and Gardens. Please see the website – horniman.ac.uk – for details.
Tickets to Voyage to the Deep are now on sale. Please go to the website – horniman.ac.uk – to book. Prices – child £7, adult £9.80, family of three (1 adult) £20.20, family of four (up to two adults) £27. Under 3s, Horniman Members and Benefactors enjoy free, unlimited entry to the exhibition.
