The Treasure Chamber

Deep beneath the earth lies a hidden vault of Dragon lore; a place where Dragons from across place and time lie guarding a wealth of stories. But do you have what it takes to tame these dragons and learn their extraordinary tales?

Join the heroes of Cressida Cowell's How To Train Your Dragon series as they guide you safely through the realms of Earth, Air, Fire and Water to learn more about this diverse range of mythical creatures that have captivated the imaginations of people for thousands of years and across many cultures. Along the way you'll pick up plenty of tips and tricks on dragon etiquette, hone your dragon training skills and meet some fearsome foes as well as some faithful friends.

Co-curated by Cressida Cowell, author of the bestselling How To Train Your Dragon series, this exhibition offers an insight into the enduring appeal of the dragon across cultures. Dragons have featured in stories dating back thousands of years from the Epic of Gilgamesh through to the modern day. Sometimes dragons are fearsome beasts to be overcome with bravery or with quick wits. But they also represent wisdom and enlightenment, ancient beings who act as benevolent guardians offering insight and guidance.

From the Soup Dragon in the children's classic TV show of The Clangers to a pickled dragon in a jar, there's plenty to keep all ages entertained, including the chance to have a go at racing dragons, picking a suitable outfit in which to meet a dragon and seeing if you're brave enough to wake the dragon that lies at the heart of the museum's Treasure Chamber. For in the words of Ursula K. Le Guin, 'It is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.'