Neutron tomography is experiencing a rapid uptake by palaeontologists for the digital excavation of specimens not achievable using mechanical means or X-ray tomography. Interest in neutrons is driven by their ability to penetrate iron-rich minerals, and their high sensitivity to hydrogen, which acts as a natural contrast agent to enhance the visibility of select fossils and preserved soft-tissue structures. The applications of neutron imaging in palaeontology extend beyond the description of extinct species, and can inform conservation efforts, authenticity investigations and contribute to museum exhibitions. Neutron-assisted discoveries are making headlines, and discoveries such as the first evidence that crocodiles ate dinosaurs, new pterosaur species, neurosensory diversity in early reptiles, the oldest amniote skin and world’s oldest heart illustrate how neutron tomography is leading a revolution in palaeontology.