By Isle of Wight Observer
Dinosaur Isle museum re-opened on Tuesday, after more than half a million pounds of repairs and improvements aimed at protecting its fossil collection, and upgrading the visitor experience.
The Sandown seafront attraction welcomed visitors again from 10am, following a £498,000-project, funded through the Museum Estate and Development Fund, and an additional £180,000 from the Isle of Wight Council.
Work included a new roof, improved heating and air-conditioning, and updated lighting throughout the galleries. The improvements are designed to help safeguard the museum’s 35,000 fossil specimens, many of them unique to the Isle of Wight.
Dinosaur Isle has also appointed a new curator and general manager, Dr David Button, who said: “I’m honoured to be taking care of the museum’s world-class fossil collection.
“The Dinosaur Isle team are delighted to invite the public back to discover more than 130 million years of the Isle’s history.”
Among the highlights is the fossil remains of the Island’s newest named dinosaur, Istiorachis, a sail-backed plant-eater, identified by scientists in early 2025, shortly before the museum closed for repairs. Visitors can also see research continuing in the museum’s fossil lab.
While the museum’s pterosaur-shaped building remains unchanged, some external maintenance will continue, and scaffolding will stay in place for a short period. Visitors with access needs are advised to call ahead on 404344.
Opening hours are 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday, with daily opening from March 30 to April 10 during the Easter holidays.