One of my favourite things about living in London is that I am surrounded by incredible museums - almost of all of which are free!
As a tour guide in London, I get asked a lot about which museums are my favourite, which ones people should visit if they're short on time, and what exhibitions are worth seeing.
So, I've put together this list of the best free museums in London (and a map)!
Here you'll find museums dedicated to history, art, science, the military - and more.
Honestly, I think there is something here for every one, including guests of all ages!
It was hard to come up with an order to put these in so I've kept it simple and alphabetised my list.
I've also made a customised map that features all these museums so you can plan your visits.
You'll notice, for example, that the Natural History, Science and V&A Museum are all next door to one another.
And at the end, I'll also include a list of almost free museums.
NOTE: Visiting a free London museum is one of my picks for the top 10 things to do in London.
Anaesthesia Heritage Centre
If you’re medically-minded (although, in truth, I'm not so much), a visit to the Anesthesia Heritage Centre would be a great way to spend a few hours in London.
The Anesthesia Heritage Centre houses an intriguing collection of artefacts and documents, chronicling the history and evolution of anesthesia and pain relief in medical practice.
Visitors can explore the journey of anaesthetic techniques and equipment, providing valuable insights into the advancement of medical science and patient care.
Because I'm a historian, my favourite things on display are the old anesthetic instruments, although it can feel a bit harrowing looking at them all!
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 am – 4:00pm.
Bank of England Museum
This is one of my favourites on the list, just because I had no idea what to expect when I first went and I was blown away.
I also find that almost nobody has ever heard of it so it tends to be pretty quiet which is another reason I like going here.
The Bank of England Museum in London offers a captivating journey through the history of British currency, featuring rare banknotes, gold bars, and interactive exhibits on monetary policy and the central banking system.
Visitors can explore the fascinating world of finance, understanding the role of the Bank of England and its impact on the country's economy.
But the highlight for me is the opportunity to hold an actual gold bar.
My friend who was with me couldn't even pick it up because it was so heavy!
Also, I grew up in the USA and I was surprised to see some bank notes signed by the Founding Fathers.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00am – 5:00pm. It is open until 8:00pm on every third Thursday of the month.
British Dental Association Museum
If you’ve ever wondered what dentistry looked like in the 1700s (and I definitely have), take a look at the British Dental Museum.
The museum features a fascinating array of vintage dental instruments and historic dentures, offering a glimpse into the evolution of dentistry and oral healthcare practices.
It provides a unique perspective on the progression of dental care and the tools used by dental professionals throughout history.
Now, I know this seems kind of niche but I found it surprisingly fascinating!
Seeing all the old toothbrushes on display gave me a new appreciation for my Oral B electronic brush.
Opening Hours: The Museum is temporarily closed at time of writing (January 2025)
British Library
The British Library. is not JUST a library filled with books, it contains written histories, maps, and illustrated manuscripts from over 3,000 years of civilisation.
I spent a lot of time here when I was writing my thesis and I always found myself engaged in things that had nothing to do with what I was supposed to be studying!
One of the most impressive artefacts is none other than the Magna Carta, original manuscripts by Dickens and Austen, but they also house Shakespeare's first Folio.
I also enjoyed looking at the world's earliest printed books.
They also have some absolutely amazing exhibitions.
I've been to ones showcasing original manuscripts and drawings for Alice in Wonderland and Through The Looking Glass.
This time, I went to one dedicated to music that had handwritten lyrics by Paul McCartney and John Lennon (now a permanent offering), and one about medieval women - which was probably by favourite.
This is another one that not a lot of people know about so I find it doesn't get as busy as some of the larger ones.
But, if there is an exhibition you want to go to make sure to book ASAP.
I've seen them sell out very quickly because they limit the amount of people allowed inside.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:30am - 8:00pm / Fridays 9:30am - 6:00pm / Saturdays 9:30am - 5:00pm / Sundays 11:00am - 5:00pm
British Museum
My guess is that this one is obvious, but I had to put it on my list just in case!
The British Museum in London houses world-renowned exhibits like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, showcasing ancient artefacts and art from civilisations across the globe, offering a glimpse into human history and cultural heritage on a global scale.
I can't count the amount of times I've visited this museum and I still come across things I feel like I've never seen before.
In fact, there's so much here that I find it overwhelming and I know some of my tour guests do, too.
I love exploring all the diverse collections spanning millennia, from Egyptian mummies to Greek sculptures to east Asian art...there's just so much here.
So my colleague Jessica did a virtual tour that showcases some of the highlights for you:
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 10:00am - 5:00pm / Fridays 10:00am - 8:30pm
TIP: The Great Court Restaurant at the Museum does an excellent afternoon tea (they have a spiced carrot quinoa cake that is delicious)!
I have genuinely spent entire days here before so it's nice there's a place for some refreshments in the middle of the day.
Burgh House & Hampstead Museum
Hampstead is one of my favourite areas of London and always on my list of recommendations when visitors are looking for something off the beaten path.
It's almost like a little village tucked up into the hills of North London.
There's beautiful Georgian houses, the incredible Hampstead Heath (with views sweeping over the city) and some amazing pubs like The Holly Bush and The Spaniard's Inn.
And there is one place worth visiting that showcases all the history of this charming neighbourhood: Burgh House in Hampstead.
This Museum features local history exhibits, showcasing the heritage and culture of Hampstead, including artworks, photographs, and artifacts, providing insight into the area's evolution over time.
Visitors can explore the vibrant cultural identity of Hampstead through the museum's collections, offering a window into the neighbourhood's past and present.
This is also a good one for children! The museum offers delightful kids exhibits, providing a glimpse into the history of Hampstead with interactive displays and activities tailored for young visitors.
My nephews loved trying on the old-fashioned clothes and playing with interactive displays. (Am I the only one who wishes they had adult sized clothes too..?
Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday & Bank Holidays from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
The Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution
The Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution in London celebrates the life and work of Michael Faraday, a pioneering figure in electromagnetism, featuring his scientific instruments and original research materials.
From experiments and technological advancements to the people who completed them, the Faraday Museum is a snapshot of British innovation.
I like to consider myself pretty smart but no fewer than 14 (!) Nobel Prize winners have worked at the Royal Institution so to say a visit here was humbling to me is an understatement...
Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of electricity, magnetism, and scientific discovery, gaining insights into Faraday's significant contributions to modern physics.
But my favourite part was actually seeing Michael Faraday’s lab, preserved as it was in the 1850s!
That was a pleasant surprise.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00am – 5.00pm
Grant Museum of Zoology
I'm an animal lover so there's no way I was going to leave this museum off my list!
From a frightening skull of an African Rock Python to their collection of animal brains, there are enough novelties in the Grant Museum of Zoology to keep everyone entertained for the afternoon.
The museum features a diverse array of preserved animal specimens, which I know some people find kind of creepy but I love that there is a chance to actually lay eyes on species that are now extinct.
And this is another one that I recommend for people who are travelling with children.
They have engaging kids exhibits that my niece enjoyed and they also having family-centred activities that change every month.
So, I like that I know there will be something new to see if I take her again.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 1:00pm - 5:00pm / Saturday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre
The Guildhall Art Gallery is a lovely collection of paintings and other artwork that rotate throughout the year, much of which is Victorian or pictures of London.
But, for me, the highlight is the Roman Amphitheatre, adjacent to the Gallery.
Animal fights, public executions, and gladiatorial combats would have been held here, attracting huge audiences from all nearby Roman settlements and I can't believe it's open to the public.
To me, there is something incredibly fascinating about walking through locations where crowds would've gathered centuries ago to watch some truly barbaric blood sports.
This is another location I've noticed is largely unknown by a lot of visitors, so I have been lucky enough to have the entire place to myself on more than one visit!
I recommend a visit right before closing to try to get that experience for yourself.
We also visit on our Roman London Tour so consider joining us!
I also wrote a post specifically about Roman London sites you can visit while you're here so check that out, too.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:00pm
Horniman Museum and Gardens
The Horniman Museum in London is known for its eclectic collection, including an extensive anthropology exhibit featuring cultural artefacts from around the world.
The whole thing is just a riot of colour and I love stumbling across things I've overlooked in previous visits every time I go.
Although, for me, the highlight is the Butterfly House!
I find the aquarium to be quite impressive, too.
The kids in my family enjoy this one, too!
In addition to enjoying the Butterfly House and Aquarium, there are exhibitions specifically aimed toward children and they even do a fun story time on Sundays.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:30pm
Imperial War Museum
The actual, full Imperial War Museum is an organisation of collections throughout London including numerous museums, as well as HMS Belfast, Churchill War Rooms - both of which I love but are not free.
But the namesake location in Lambeth is top tier, holding everything from letters and firsthand accounts of war to machinery and recordings.
Honestly, I think this is one of the best museums in the city.
The exhibits are divided into various sections like First World War Galleries, Second World War Galleries, Turning Points, The Holocaust Galleries (probably the most moving exhibition, in my opinion), Witnesses to War, Lord Ashcroft Gallery and Peace and Security.
You could easily spend an entire day here but I find myself needing a break after a few hours because the content is so harrowing.
NOTE: This is a popular museum for families so I try to avoid the weekends and half term holidays!
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 6:00pm
London Mithraeum
Originally uncovered in the 1950s during rebuilding work in the City, the Temple of Mithras was the largest and most important temple in Roman London.
Myriad figurines and tributes (some of which are in the Museum of London now) were found at the Temple, indicating that it was used frequently by Londinium residents.
Because of the pressing need to build over the site of the Temple, it was very carefully moved to Temple Court on Queen Victoria Street.
That was until the media company Bloomberg, building their European HQ on the land that stands on the original site, decided to reconstruct the Temple back in its original position – where it is believed it was erected in the year 240.
It's free to visit but you need timed-tickets.
The way the Temple of Mithras is presented to the public is truly astounding!
I took some friends of mine for their first time recently and they were so impressed.
When we entered, we spent some time exploring the artefacts on display that had all been found within the bounds of the Temple, before going downstairs to see some more and read about how historians believe the temple was used.
There was a school group there at the same time as us and the staff made sure to keep us separate so we could have our own experience which I thought was a nice touch.
Once the temple itself was empty we were guided in with about 10 other people and told to stand along one of the three walls that surround the temple.
Then, the lights went out, smoke filled the room and chanting began.
I don't want to give the rest away but suffice it to say, this is one of the most unique experiences you can have in our city.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00am - 6:00pm / Sundays 12:00pm - 5:00pm
London Museum / Museum of London
This is my favourite museum in the city!
When guests on my tours tell me they only have time for one museum, this is the one I direct them to.
Not because the other museums we have in town aren't brilliant, but because this is the one that is focused entirely on London itself and is filled with things that can't be seen in any other city on earth.
The Museum of London is currently in the process of moving to a new premises so I'm not sure what's in store when they reopen their tours.
Previously, the museum was set out chronologically which I liked, showing what the city was like under Roman rule, in Medieval times, during the Georgians, and they even had a rebuilt Victorian high street!
The museum showcases the history and evolution of London, featuring exhibits on Roman London, the Great Fire, and contemporary urban development, providing a comprehensive journey through the city's rich past and vibrant present.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the diverse stories of Londoners and the city's cultural, social, and economic transformations over centuries.
I can't wait for them to reopen!
NOTE: The Museum of London is closed at time of writing (January 2025), as they are moving to their new location in Smithfield.
The Museum is set to reopen in 2026 (and I've been counting down for years now!).
London Museum Docklands
How did rivers shape London society through the ages?
Find out at the London Museum Docklands, the partner museum of the Museum of London.
To me, this museum has the same spirit as the Museum of London. I just find the displays interesting and captivating.
This museum focuses on London's maritime and trade history, showcasing artefacts and stories of its bustling docklands.
Visitors can delve into the city's past, from the slave trade to the Industrial Revolution, through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.
My favourite is an exhibition about the unseen rivers that run underneath London.
I love to talk about them on my tours so it's fascinating to get so much detail on them.
And, again, this is a good one for kids!
There are interactive displays, immersive experiences and a focus on pirates - which always goes down well with my niece and nephews.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:00pm
London Sewing Machine Museum
If you'd ever see my attempting to use a sewing machine you'd know why I had to come here!
There are over 600 machines on display (all of which I'm sure I wouldn't be able to use), and some of them are rare or have particular historic signifigance.
The Sewing Machine Museum is rather niche, but it's more than just machines.
I think they do a great job of showing the evolution of sewing and they impact these machines have had on society.
Visitors can explore the ingenuity and craftsmanship of these historical machines, from early treadle models to ornate Victorian designs.
Opening Hours: Their opening hours, however, are restrictive.
I was lucky to visit when I did as these days it's rarely open! For more details about the hours, click here.
Museum of Freemasonry
My grandfather was a Freemason but never shared too much about that with me (part of the rules, I suppose).
So, I was excited to check out the Museum of Freemasonry as an easy introduction to their world.
Discover 300 years of Freemason history, with literature and saved artefacts.
The Museum of Freemasonry in London offers a unique insight into the history and symbolism of Freemasonry, displaying rare artefacts, regalia (this was my favourite part!), and Masonic literature.
Visitors can explore the intriguing world of Freemasonry, uncovering its traditions, rituals, and contributions to society over centuries.
When I went, I was lucky enough to go on one of their free guided tours which was fantastic!
The guide was super friendly and funny - I hadn't even planned on going on a tour the timings just worked out unexpectedly.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm / Saturday 10:00am - 1:00pm then 2:00pm - 5:00pm
National Army Museum
In my opinion, this museum isn't as impressive as the Imperial War Museum, but it's still worth visiting.
The National Army Museum focuses entirely on the stories of soldiers in the UK Army through historic paintings, films, and weaponry.
The museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, spanning from ancient battles to modern conflicts, honouring the history, soldiers, and innovations of the British Army.
My favourite was seeing all the old uniforms that soldiers used to wear, and the incredible swords they used to carry!
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00am - 5:30pm
National Gallery
One of the most impressive collections of art throughout the ages is right in London at The National Gallery, ready to be seen for free!
The National Gallery in London houses an exceptional collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
You can see works from Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Degas, Van Gogh, Botticelli, and Rembrandt all the way to more primitive stone sculptures.
I go all the time, of course, and choose different rooms to explore.
It still blows my mind to think about what I'm actually looking at while I'm there!
Also, I've realised that not everybody realises that the Gallery is open late on Fridays which makes it relatively quiet.
So, I like to go during that time when everything else in London has closed for the day.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 10:00am - 6:00pm / Fridays 10:00am - 9:00pm
NOTE: The National Gallery is completely temperature controlled which makes it one of my favourite places to visit during the height of summer!
Yes, it does get hot here and not everywhere has air conditioning so I'm just mentioning this to those of you that may be temperature sensitive.
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
Alright, I've already told you about the Army Museum, now it's time for the Royal Navy at the National Maritime Museum.
From exploration and discoveries to feats of bravery, you can explore the exhibits and learn about sailors, captains, and technology from the UK’s maritime history.
I love visiting Greenwich because it's like being in a countryside village, rather than in London.
There's so much to see and do there but the Maritime Museum is probably top of my list.
The museum showcases a rich collection maritime art and historical artefacts, offering a fascinating journey through the world's maritime heritage.
From exploration and navigation to the legacy of Admiral Lord Nelson, its exhibits provide a captivating glimpse into centuries of maritime history and its impact on society.
My favourite are all of the models of various ships throughout the years - including the giant ship in a bottle that used to stand in Trafalgar Square!
I was so sad when they removed it so I love it's got a new lease on life out here.
Honestly, a day trip to Greenwich is one of my favourite things.
I love taking the boat to Greenwich, exploring the college, the Maritime Museum, and the Royal Observatory - with a lunch break at the covered market - for a truly fun day out!
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:00pm
National Portrait Gallery
This is my favourite art gallery in London!
If you've read my other blog posts, you'll know that I'm a historian with a specialty in the history of the British Monarchy - and so many of them have portraits hanging at The National Portrait Gallery.
This gallery celebrates the faces and stories of prominent figures in (British) history through an extensive collection of portraits, spanning from the Tudor period to the present day.
The collection includes paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other artistic representations, providing insights into the lives and achievements of notable personalities.
I could - and do - spend hours here. They also have a fantastic rotating series of exhibitions.
Those are paid, but I've never thought the entry price wasn't worth it.
This past summer they had one dedicated to the six wives of Henry VIII featuring their belongings, original Holbein sketches, and dozens of portraits from across the globe that I'd only ever seen in books before. It was fantastic!
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10:30am - 6:00pm / Fridays and Saturdays 10:30am - 9:00pm
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is one of the main three museums on Exhibition Road and I think, aside from the fact it's an excellent museum, the building itself is just stunning.
I find this museum particularly fun!
There's lots to see like the iconic Diplodocus dinosaur skeleton "Dippy," a towering blue whale model suspended from the ceiling, and the captivating Earth Hall showcasing geological wonders.
Additionally, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of minerals, gems (my favourite - I love to see all the sparkling gems on display!), and fossils, providing a fascinating glimpse into Earth's natural history and biodiversity.
There's also an animatronic dinosaur that I know isn't real...but still kind of freaks me out! It's so cool.
You can probably tell from what I've described that this is a good option for kids, but I want to point it out.
They have interactive displays, hands-on activities, and - of course - that "real" dinosaur. The little ones in my family love it here.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:50pm
NOTE: This is another museum that gets absolutely rammed during school breaks so I try to visit on weekdays during term times when possible.
These days you can book a free ticket online so I can't recommend that enough!
If you can't do that - go early. I've seen queues at the door up to an hour before doors open.
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology
It's not just the British Museum that features treasures and sculptures from Northern Africa.
The Petrie Museum is home to 80,000 artefacts of Egyptian and Sudanese archaeology, and it's one of the best in the world.
From intricately detailed pottery to mummies and ancient jewellry, it showcases the fascinating evolution of Egyptian civilisation.
The highlight for me is a 5,000 year old dress that's on display! It's a small museum but I think it's a real hidden gem.
If you’ve ever wondered how people from the Nile Valley lived, this is the way to find out.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 1:00pm - 5:00pm / Saturday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Royal Academy of Music Museum
I can't play any instruments, but that doesn't mean I don't like learning about them!
The Royal Academy of Music Museum presents an extensive collection of musical instruments, manuscripts, and memorabilia, featuring items owned and used by notable musicians, providing a rich narrative of musical history and innovation.
What impresses me the most is that there are little windows into the workshops where luthiers are working on their instruments which I find endlessly fascinating.
The staff also let me have a go on the piano which wasn't expectly my shining moment but still cool to have an expert walk me through it!
Honestly, this Museum is so overlooked.
Every time I've been, I've been the only person in there so if you like to avoid crowds, this is a good option.
Opening Hours: Fridays 11:00am - 6:00pm
Royal Air Force Museum
Aviation enthusiasts (like my father) will love the RAF Museum in London.
I lived in London for years before I went here and I only came because my dad wanted to go while he was visiting me.
Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised!
I saw historic aircraft and flight simulators (my dad's favourite part - I had to drag him away), as well as an in-depth look at the first 100 years of the Royal Air Force and its development.
Visitors can explore iconic planes, wartime relics, and learn about the courageous men and women who shaped the skies.
In fact, I think this is what surprised me the most.
I expected a lot of machinery but there was a real focus on the lives of the people who designed and used a lot if the gear on display.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:00pm
Science Museum
From biology to astronomy, the Science Museum on Exhibition Road is packed with objects, photos, and interactive exhibits that give you a peek into the scientific wonders of our world.
The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of science, technology, and innovation, showcasing iconic inventions and their impact on society.
My favourite thing about this museum is that there are quite a few hands-on exhibits which I always like.
It's also another great one for the kids!
There are exhibits just for the little ones with interactive displays and exciting experiments that unravel the wonders of science and technology.
When I was there last they also had a few demonstrations going on where the staff were engaging with the kids.
However, this is another museum that gets wildly crowded with families so I never go during weekends and school holidays.
I find the crowds at that time are overwhelming to the point where we couldn't even get our hands on the hands-on exhibits!
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 6:00pm
Serpentine Galleries
The Serpentine Galleries actually consist of two separate buildings, each one on either side of the Serpentine Bridge.
The Kensington Gardens side was the first, established in 1970 and located inside a former 1930s tea pavilion.
The second was opened in 2013 and is located inside a former gunpowder store from 1805.
The Gallery features contemporary art by both well-known and up-and-coming artists and is completely FREE!
I also like that sometimes the art isn't confined to the galleries, but is elsewhere in the park.
For example, since July 2024 there has been a giant pumpkin near the Round Pond (by Yayoi Kusama).
I mostly visit in the spring or summer so I can combine my visit with a trip through the park.
I always check their schedule before I go, though, to see what's happening so make sure you do, too!
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00am - 6:00pm
Tate Britain
I definitely notice more people talking about the Tate Modern than the Tate Britain, but this is actually my favourite of the two.
The Tate Britain in London is renowned for its extensive collection of British art from the 16th century to the modern era, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the country's artistic heritage.
There's paintings, sculptures and other artworks all carefully laid out - I find myself getting lost here a lot and that is not a complaint!
There are also exhibits on specific periods in British art history and on famous British artists such as Gainsborough, Hogarth, Bacon, Turner and more.
I also find that they have some of the best paid exhibitions in the city.
Of course, they're not free, but I always think the price is worth it.
The last one I went to showcased portraits by John Singer Sargent and had the actual clothing worn by the people in the portraits, on display.
It was fascinating!
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 6:00pm
NOTE: There is a pier outside the Tate Britain, and one at the Tate Modern which means you can actually take a boat between the two!
On Saturdays there is a Tate to Tate boat that makes no other stops (super convenient), but the rest of the week the standard Uber Boat route will take you there.
They serve a rose' I quite like so I'm always happy to be on the Uber Boat.
Tate Modern
An iconic part of the London skyline, the Tate Modern collection is actually housed in an old power station.
Bankside Power Station was designed by architect Giles Gilbert Scott and built between 1947 and 1963.
When the power station closed in 1981, it sat abandoned on the Thames until the Tate collection moved in and was opened to the public in 2000.
Nowadays the most recognisable part of the building is the chimney.
Rising 325ft into the air, the chimney is made almost entirely of brick and stands directly opposite St Paul's Cathedral on the other side of the river.
The Tate Modern has 7 floors that hold galleries on the first 4.
Galleries and displays are not chronological but arranged by themes, which I think is cool.
There's also the Turbine Hall, which is my favourite part.
It's the massive space you enter as you walk into the building and there's a rotating roster of exhibits in there.
I'm not super into modern art but I do like to come see the new exhibit in the Turbine Hall every time it changes.
I think my favourite was probably the giant slide that went from top to bottom which I slid down an embarrassing amount of times, back in 2007.
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 6:00pm
NOTE: Remember, as I said above, there is a Tate to Tate Boat service to travel between the two.
But my second note is that I love the cafe' at the Tate Modern because it offers gorgeous views over the River Thames and St. Paul's opposite.
I'm not that into modern art so I actually come here sometimes specifically to have a glass of wine and look out the window.
Victoria & Albert Museum
Also known as the V&A, this massive museum located in South Kensington has curated one of the largest collections of art and design in the country.
Its exhibits encompass a vast and diverse array of artefacts, including textiles, fashion, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery (my favourite section!), furniture, and more, spanning centuries and cultures from around the world.
There's also a bust of King Charles II that I like to visit every now and again which sounds a little bizarre now that I've typed it out...
I also love that they have plaster casts of famous sculptures from around Europe.
So, for example, I've never seen Michelangelo's David in real life (yet) but I was able to see the exact copy here in London.
The V&A also do some of the best exhibitions in London.
They had one about historical shoes a few years back that I still think about!
I've also been to their David Bowie and McQueen exhibitions - both were unique and fantastic.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 10:00am - 5:45pm / Fridays 10:00am - 10:00pm
Wallace Collection
I find that very few visitors know about the Wallace Collection (although having said that, a question about it popped up on our London Travel Tips Facebook page just this morning).
This beautiful art collection was compiled throughout the 18th and 19th centuries before being gifted to the British Nation in the late 1800s.
It features exquisite paintings, sculptures, furniture, armour, and porcelain, providing a glimpse into the opulent world of European aristocracy and showcasing masterpieces by renowned artists like Fragonard, Rembrandt, and Titian.
The collection is displayed within the grand Hertford House, a Victorian manor which is probably the best location for an art gallery I've ever seen!
When I'm there it feels like I'm walking through the house of some old, eccentric aristocracy...which I guess I kind of am.
The room with the suits of armour, swords and a decorated canon are definitely my favourite but the chandelier in the Green Room is a close second!
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:00pm
Wellcome Collection
If you want to change your perspective on health, wellness, and science, take a visit to the Wellcome Collection!
The collection showcases thought-provoking exhibits exploring the intersections of medicine, art, and culture, delving into topics such as health, disease, and human experience through various multimedia displays and contemporary art installations.
You’ll find medical instruments, architectural displays, and art collections as you discover how artwork affects medicine and health.
There's also a lot of art, and some of the old advertising posters are my favourite things to see.
I like to describe it as a mix of science and art.
They also offer various talks and events throughout the year that I always keep an eye on, including a changing array of exhibitions.
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00am - 6:00pm / Thursdays 10:00am - 8:00pm
Whitechapel Gallery
The Whitechapel Gallery in London is a pioneering contemporary art space known for its commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art from both emerging and established artists.
Founded in 1901, it has a rich history of promoting modern art and engaging with a diverse range of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, video, installation, and performance.
You can find works from artists like Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and Sophie Calle.
It's definitely a smaller gallery, I don't think I've spent more than an hour there any time I've visited.
My favourite thing there, though, is the London Open exhibition that repeats every year (usually in the Summer).
It's an open call exhibition for local artists and creatives.
There's always talks and events that surround it, too. I've discovered quite a few artists through this programme so I always recommend it.
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 11:00am - 6:00pm / Thursday 11:00am - 9:00pm
NOTE: Our East End Instagrammable Street Art Tour starts from right outside the Gallery!
I always recommend a visit there first, and a small bite to eat (I love their homemade cakes) before heading out on the tour with us.
It's an excellent way to spend your day.
Young V&A
Partnered with the V&A is their delightful offering for youngsters.
The Young V&A is filled with art made by, and for, children.
The idea here is to inspire children to engage with art, through a series of exhibitions hands-on displays and opportunities for visitors to create art of their own.
There's a diverse array of toys, games, and childhood memorabilia, allowing children to step into the enchanting world of play and imagination.
I will say, having taken my niece and nephews here in the past, there's not too much geared toward adults but as long as you know that going in, I don't think it's a problem.
There's also play areas which I find work really well for tiring out the little ones before a tube journey home...
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00am - 5:45pm
But that's not all, folks! I have quite a few others I want to recommend to you.
- Bethlem Museum of the Mind
- British Optical Association Museum
- Museum of the Order of St. John (I love this place - it's worth visiting just for the building alone.)
- Design Museum
- Sir John Soane’s Museum (I like to tell people nothing about this museum and tell them to go there blind, so I'm doing the same here!)
- Hunterian Museum (One of my favourites as I used to work in the archives here. It's nearby John Sone's so I like to do both when I visit.)
- Camden Arts Centre
- Museum of Royal Pharmaceutical Society
- Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum
ALMOST FREE/CHEAP MUSEUMS
So these museums aren't free, but they're affordable! I've tried to limit them to £12.00 and under fot those of you who are on a budget.
- The Fan Museum (Another museum in a beautiful historical home - I love it here.)
- The Household Cavalry Museum
- The Guards Museum (I'm always asked about the King's Guard on my tours and this museum is dedicated specifically to them.)
- Cartoon Museum
- Old Operating Theatre (Kind of macabre but I always like bringing people here.)
- Dr. Johnson's House (Look out for Hodge - my favourite stop on our City of London Tour.)
- Golden Hinde
- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
- Viktor Wynds’s Cabinet of Curiosities (So weird...but so good.)
MUSEUMS FREE WITH TOURIST PASSES
If you have your eye on an art gallery that isn’t free, there is most likely a way to get a concessionary or cheap ticket.
By buying a tourist pass, you get entrance to these museums included:
- King’s Gallery
- Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
- Fan Museum
- Foundling Museum
- Charles Dickens Museum
- Household Cavalry Museum
- Tower of London with Beefeater Tours
- Museum of Brands (I LOVE this one! Seeing old advertising and packaging is so interesting to me.)
- Cartoon Museum
- The Fan Museum
- Florence Nightingale Museum
- London Transport Museum (Words can't describe how much I like this one. Standing in old tube carriages and looking at all the designs is endlessly fascinating to me.)
- The Guards Museum
- London Canal Museum
- Madame Tussauds
- London Postal Museum (I love it here at Christmas especially!)
- The Garden Museum (Not one of my favourites but my mother-in-law loves it.)
I get asked about tourist passes a lot while I'm leading my tours, or moderating our Facebook page, so I wrote an enter page about London tourist passes here
