“The Great North Museum charts 500 million years of natural and human evolution, bringing to life the history of our planet and its people through breathtaking displays of world-class treasures.”

The project has been led by Newcastle University in partnership with Tyne & Wear Museums, Newcastle City Council, the Natural History Society of Northumbria and the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne.

Highlights of the new museum include a life-size replica T. rex skeleton, mummies from Ancient Egypt, and a superb collection of Greek art and archaeology.

Visitors can track the story of planet Earth from its place in the universe – brought to life in the Museum’s planetarium – through ancient world civilisations, to natural history and life today.

Live animals from around the world, alongside the well-known Victorian specimens, make up a spectacular display of life on Earth, past and present, and highlighting the needs for conservation efforts worldwide.

The Great North Museum will also serve as the gateway to the environment and landscape of the North East of England.

The Hadrian’s Wall Gallery displays exhibits from the entire length of the wall in the single greatest collection of artefacts from the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site.

Visitors can discover the history of Rome’s North Western frontier, including an inscription stone which proves that the wall was built on the orders of Emperor Hadrian.