Dinosaurs stomp into Nottingham

The roar-some dinosaur skeletons and fossils that make up this summer’s world-exclusive Dinosaurs of China exhibition have stomped into Nottingham, ready to entertain and educate dinosaur fans. Fresh from their 50 day, 5000-mile sail from China to Nottingham, the show-stopping exhibition of dinosaur skeletons and fossils will now undertake a careful two-week installation process to ensure they are ready for display in July. Featuring globally significant discoveries, some of which have never left Asia before, Dinosaurs of China is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for visitors to see the spectacular Mamenchisaurus – a dinosaur skeleton the same height as three double decker buses; and the amazing Gigantoraptor, the largest bird-like feathered dinosaur in the world. Telling the story of how dinosaurs evolved into birds, dinosaur enthusiasts will be able to see the family-friendly Dinosaurs of China exhibition in Nottingham from 1^st July to 29^th October at Wollaton Hall and Nottingham University’s Public Arts centre Lakeside Arts. The main exhibition at Wollaton Hall will feature 26 dinosaur skeletons and fossils that include some of the best-preserved specimens in the world. Dr Adam Smith, Exhibition Curator, said, “It’s absolutely incredible to have the Dinosaurs of China here, having completed their two-month long inter-continental journey. Seeing such important finds up close is really thrilling and we can’t wait to start the installation process so we can share them with the rest of Nottingham this summer!” Visitors to the complementary exhibition at Nottingham Lakeside Arts will be greeted by two fascinating dinosaur skeletons - the Alxasaurus and the Dilophosaurus - for free. Together with the University's own Life Science collection, the interactive exhibition will explore palaeo-art and how science and art help us figure out how dinosaurs may have looked. There will also be plenty of exciting activities and workshops to keep families entertained. At Wollaton Hall, a free ‘Dino Explorer Zone’ will provide families with a range of themed activities and puzzles for all. The workshops on offer at Lakeside Arts Nottingham include building their own Lego dinosaur and an adventurous nature trail with unexpected twists, challenges and riddles. Tickets for the exhibition are now on sale. Prices are £7.70 for an adult and £5.50 for a child. Family tickets are £22 for two adults and two children. Children under five go free and the event welcomes school parties at a reduced price. For more information, please visit www.dinosaursofchina.co.uk