Breaking away from the typical museum experience of historical artifacts and long educational sessions, a unique museum has emerged as a refreshing alternative.
Unlike traditional museums, the Crab Museum in Margate, Kent, has taken the spotlight by focusing solely on the often overlooked creature, the crab. Time Out recognized this unconventional museum as the top destination to visit in 2026, surpassing many renowned institutions.
The Crab Museum offers a fresh perspective for those seeking a break from the ordinary. Packed with engaging facts, humor, and a unique approach, it challenges the conventional museum experience.
Nestled in Margate Old Town, the unassuming Crab Museum delves into every aspect of crabs, from their evolutionary history to their role in medicine and reproduction.
Visitors are greeted with entertaining and informative illustrations that not only cover crab-related topics but also touch on various socio-political issues in a family-friendly manner. The museum was meticulously curated by brothers Bertie and Ned Suesat-Williams and Chase Coley in 2021.
In a conversation with one of the co-directors, it became evident that the museum’s atmosphere is light-hearted, but the scientific content is substantial. The founders, self-proclaimed “Crab Enthusiasts,” bring a wealth of scientific and educational backgrounds to their passion for learning and teaching.
Ned Suesat, a co-director at the Crab Museum, is described as an “archaeologist by training” with a profound interest in marine life, which inspired this unique venture. When asked about the museum’s genesis, he emphasized the interconnectedness of knowledge, humans, non-humans, crabs, humor, politics, and more as the driving force behind the museum’s concept.
Although his passion lies with crabs, Ned acknowledges that the museum could have centered on any subject.
While Timeout catapulted this scientific haven into the limelight, Ned humorously remarked that they were too engrossed in discussing crabs to notice. Their primary aim is to demonstrate to visitors that learning about science can be as enjoyable as any leisure activity.
A recent TripAdvisor reviewer, impressed by their visit, praised the museum’s humorous and enlightening experience, awarding it a 4.6-star rating. They were pleasantly surprised by the entertaining crab-themed displays and recommended a visit for those seeking a light-hearted adventure.
The Crab Museum welcomes visitors from Friday to Sunday between 11am-5pm, offering free admission with occasional ticketed events and performances.
Looking ahead, Ned expressed optimism for a future where appreciating crabs and supporting unconventional museums becomes mainstream. Despite uncertainties, including climate challenges and political shifts, their commitment to the museum’s quirky charm remains unwavering.
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