Top 10 Free Museums in London

Explore the British Museum: Immerse yourself in history by visiting the British Museum.

Immerse yourself in history by visiting the British Museum. Marvel at the Rosetta Stone and discover ancient artifacts from various corners of the world. 🌍🔍

The British Museum is a captivating destination that draws millions of visitors each year. Here are compelling reasons why tourists should explore this iconic institution:

1. It’s Free!
   • The British Museum itself is a masterpiece of architecture, but what truly entices crowds is the rich history within its walls.
   • Remarkably, admission is free! Visitors can immerse themselves in a treasure trove of art and artifacts without spending a penny¹.
2. The Egyptian Rooms
   • Step into ancient Egypt as you encounter mummies, hieroglyphs, and captivating artifacts.
   • Learn about Egyptian history, from rapid technological advancements to beliefs about death and the afterlife.
   • Discover the unbelievable true story of Cleopatra within these rooms.
3. The Middle-Eastern Rooms
   • Often overshadowed in other museums, the Middle-Eastern collection at the British Museum shines.
   • In Room 10, witness the extravagant hunting rituals of Assyrian king Ashurbanipal (who lived between 668 and 630 B.C.).
   • Sculpted reliefs on alabaster panels depict the king’s prowess and power.
4. A Journey Through Human History
   • The British Museum documents the story of humankind from prehistoric times to the modern era.
   • Explore two million years of history through artifacts from around the world.
   • Don’t miss precious objects like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures².
   • What is the Rosetta Stone?
     • The Rosetta Stone is a stele (a stone slab) made of granodiorite.
     • It bears an inscription in three different scripts: Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, Demotic, and Ancient Greek.
     • This trilingual text was issued in 196 BC during the Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt, on behalf of King Ptolemy V Epiphanes¹.
     • The top section features Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, the middle section contains Demotic script (used for daily purposes), and the bottom section is inscribed in Ancient Greek².
   • Why is it important?
     • The Rosetta Stone served as a crucial clue in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs.
     • The inscription is an official decree about King Ptolemy V, supported by the priests of a temple in Memphis, Egypt.
     • The stone was discovered broken and incomplete.
     • It features:
       • 14 lines of hieroglyphic script.
       • 32 lines in Demotic.
       • 54 lines in Ancient Greek, where you can make out the name Ptolemy as ΠΤΟΛΕΜΑΙΟΣ².
   • The Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a captivating collection of marble architectural decorations from the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, located on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

In summary, the British Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into our shared past, making it a must-visit for curious travelers. 🌍🏛️

Encounter the Mighty T-Rex and Survive the Earthquake Simulator at the Natural History Museum

• Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring encounter with the Tyrannosaurus rex (T-Rex) – the colossal predator of prehistoric times.
• Stand face-to-face with its roaring jaws, marvel at its massive skeletal structure, and imagine the ancient world it once ruled.
• But that’s not all! Experience the earthquake simulator, where the ground trembles, buildings sway, and you’ll feel the raw power of seismic forces.
• It’s an adventure that combines history, science, and adrenaline – all under one roof at the Natural History Museum! 🌎🦖🌟

1. Wildlife Photographer of the Year:
   • Explore the natural world through the lens of talented photographers. This annual exhibition features 100 powerful photographs that tell the story of a planet under pressure. Witness the fragility and diversity of our environment.
2. John James Audubon and his Birds of America:
   • Immerse yourself in the world of birds through engravings from John James Audubon’s renowned work, The Birds of America. These illustrations continue to inspire artists, bird experts, and conservationists alike¹.
3. Birds: Brilliant and Bizarre (Opening on May 24):
   • Unravel the epic story of birds – from surviving mass extinction events to inhabiting every continent on Earth.
   • Discover their secrets to success and their surprising, often shocking tactics for survival¹.
4. Women in Science Tours:
   • Women in Science Tour: Explore the fascinating work of women scientists across history. Learn about their contributions to the field, including those who worked at the museum. Tours cover topics like space, paleontology, and fashion¹.
   • Quieter Visits: Enjoy early morning sessions designed for disabled and neurodiverse visitors, including the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit and other galleries¹.

Remember, all galleries at the Natural History Museum are free to explore, except for some temporary exhibitions. Whether you’re interested in ancient fossils, wildlife photography, or scientific discoveries, there’s something for everyone! 🌍📸🦕

Discover Hidden Gems at Sir John Soane’s Museum

• Step into the enchanting world of Sir John Soane, an esteemed architect and collector.
• Explore his former 19th-century townhouse, now transformed into a captivating museum.
• Uncover a treasure trove of art, antiquities, and curiosities, meticulously arranged in every nook and cranny.
• From Egyptian sarcophagi to Roman sculptures, each room holds surprises waiting to be admired.
• Sir John Soane’s Museum is a testament to one man’s passion for beauty, history, and the extraordinary. 🏛️🔍🌟

Uncover the Rich History of British Currency at the Bank of England Museum

• Step into the Bank of England Museum, where the story of money unfolds.
• Explore the evolution of British currency, from ancient coins to modern banknotes.
• Discover the secrets behind the iconic pound sterling, its designs, and the faces that grace the notes.
• Immerse yourself in the world of finance, economics, and the fascinating journey of money through time. 💷🏛️🌟

1. The Future of Money:
   • This free exhibition directly responds to questions asked by the public about the future of money.
   • Discover how money and its usage have evolved over time, and explore the collection that sheds light on this dynamic topic.
2. Banknote Gallery:
   • Dive into the history of British currency through the captivating banknote gallery.
   • Learn about the design, security features, and faces that grace the iconic pound sterling notes.
   • Explore the evolution of banknotes and their significance in our daily lives.
3. Gold Vaults:
   • Venture into the heart of the Bank of England, where gold reserves are stored.
   • Witness the gleaming stacks of gold bars and learn about their role in the global economy.
   • Marvel at the sheer value and weight of this precious metal.
4. Past Exhibitions:
   • Take a virtual journey through past exhibitions, including:
     • Feliks Topolski: Drawing Debden (2018): Explore sketches related to the Debden Printing Works.
     • 325 Years, 325 Objects (2019): Celebrate the Bank’s long history through a curated collection of artifacts.

Remember, the Bank of England Museum provides insights into the institution’s buildings, people, and the fascinating world of finance over more than 300 years. It’s a must-visit for anyone intrigued by money, economics, and the workings of central banks! 🏛️💷🌟

Step into Royal History at Queen’s House

• Queen’s House, an architectural gem in Greenwich, invites you to explore its grandeur.
• Admire an extensive art collection that includes royal portraits – each brushstroke capturing the essence of monarchs and their eras.
• As you wander through the elegant rooms, you’ll feel the weight of history and the majesty of those who once graced these halls.
• It’s a journey through time, where art and royalty converge, leaving an indelible mark on your senses. 🏰🎨👑

The Queen’s House, an acclaimed art gallery within the Royal Museums Greenwich, houses over 450 artworks. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss during your visit:

1. Holbein’s Portraits:
   • Admire the exquisite portraits by the renowned artist Hans Holbein the Younger.
   • His meticulous attention to detail captures the essence of the Tudor court, including iconic figures like Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.
2. L.S. Lowry’s Urban Scenes:
   • Explore the works of L.S. Lowry, known for his distinctive depictions of industrial landscapes and urban life.
   • His paintings reveal the beauty in everyday scenes, from bustling streets to factories and mills.
3. Kehinde Wiley’s Contemporary Portraits:
   • Discover the contemporary brilliance of Kehinde Wiley, a celebrated artist.
   • His vibrant and powerful portraits challenge traditional notions of representation, often featuring Black subjects in regal poses.
4. Tania Kovats’ Artistic Exploration:
   • Tania Kovats, a contemporary artist, offers thought-provoking pieces.
   • Her works engage with themes of nature, water, and the environment, inviting viewers to contemplate their relationship with the world.

Remember to explore the entire collection at the Queen’s House, where each artwork tells a unique story and contributes to the rich tapestry of artistic expression. 🎨🏛️🌟

Immerse Yourself in Beauty at the Victoria and Albert Museum

• Step into a world of artistic wonder at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
• Marvel at an exquisite collection of beautiful objects, each with its own tale to tell.
• From intricate textiles to timeless sculptures, the V&A invites you to explore creativity across centuries and cultures.
• Let inspiration wash over you as you wander through its hallowed halls. 🎨🏛️✨

1. Victorian Wardrobe with Rock ‘n’ Roll History:
   • Explore the British Galleries to witness a Victorian wardrobe designed by Thomas Hopper for Penrhyn Castle.
   • What makes it even more intriguing? This wardrobe was once owned by none other than Mick Jagger and adorned his house, Stargroves, near Newbury.
2. Tipu’s Tiger:
   • One of the V&A’s most famous objects, Tipu’s Tiger, is a semi-automaton created for Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore in South India.
   • This life-sized tiger appears to maul a European soldier, complete with sound effects. Inside the tiger’s body is an organ that produces moans as the soldier’s arm moves.
3. Vivienne Westwood’s ‘Portrait’ Collection:
   • The iconic British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood drew inspiration from the furniture of André Charles Boulle, cabinetmaker to Louis XIV.
   • In her A/W 1990 ‘Portrait’ collection, she created dresses in black velvet, over-printed in gold. You can see an impressive Boulle ‘armoire’ in the Europe 1600-1815 Gallery.
4. Michelangelo’s ‘David’ Cast:
   • The V&A acquired a cast of Michelangelo’s famous ‘David’ from the original statue in Florence in 1857.
   • Queen Victoria was reportedly shocked by David’s nudity during her first visit, leading to the commissioning of a proportionally accurate fig leaf with hooks for future royal visits.
5. Shah Jahan’s Jade Wine Cup:
   • In the Nehru Gallery, discover a unique and exquisite wine cup made of white nephrite jade.
   • Crafted in 1657 for the Indian Emperor Shah Jahan (builder of the Taj Mahal), this cup is a testament to Mughal Empire craftsmanship.
6. Dale Chihuly’s Glass Sculpture:
   • Since 2001, a mesmerizing glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly hangs from the ceiling in the V&A’s entrance hall.
   • Described as “vulgar, dramatic, and absolutely fabulous,” it adds a touch of contemporary brilliance to the museum.

These exhibits are just a glimpse of the V&A’s vast collection. Prepare to be enchanted by the artistry and history within its walls! 🏛️🎨✨

Explore the River Thames’ Past at the Museum of London Docklands

The Museum of London Docklands offers a diverse range of exhibits and displays that showcase the rich history of London’s docks and rivers. Here are some fascinating artifacts and exhibitions you can explore:

1. Fashion City: Swinging Sixties (October 13, 2023 – July 7, 2024):
   • Step into the glitzy boutiques of Carnaby Street and the bustling tailors of the East End during London’s Swinging Sixties.
   • Discover the stories behind Jewish fashion makers who became industry leaders, founded retail chains still on the high street today, and dressed celebrities like David Bowie, Princess Diana, and Mick Jagger.
2. Holding Emotions:
   • A free display that allows visitors to reflect on, process, and release emotions.
   • Created collaboratively with young people from the Taking Shape Association and Mind’s Race Equity Team.
   • Provides a moment to connect with complex emotions after visiting the London, Sugar & Slavery gallery.
3. Roman Dead Artefacts:
   • Explore artifacts related to Roman burial practices.
   • Items range from everyday objects like pots and vessels (used in ceremonies) to priceless pieces like a millefiori glass dish (equivalent to a year’s salary for a Roman soldier).
4. Mudlarks: Rescuing Relics from the River:
   • Mudlarks, enthusiasts who search for artifacts on the Thames foreshore, have enriched our understanding of London’s history.
   • Their discoveries, from everyday items to historical relics, provide insights into the city’s past³.

These exhibits offer glimpses into London’s vibrant past, from fashion revolutions to ancient rituals. Plan your visit to the Museum of London Docklands and immerse yourself in its captivating stories! 🏛️🌊🌟

Embark on a Journey Through Scientific Evolution at the Faraday Museum

• Immerse yourself in over 200 years of history-making science within the Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution (Ri).
• Explore the lower ground floor, where you’ll encounter actual objects used by scientists in some of the world’s most famous experiments.
• From the first electrical transformer to the tube that revealed why the sky is blue, witness the tangible artifacts that shaped scientific understanding.
• Discover the key role that the Ri played in the development of the modern world – from the humble thermos flask to life-saving devices for miners.
• Visit Faraday’s magnetic laboratory, displayed as it was in the 1850s, opposite a current state-of-the-art nanotechnology lab.
• Plus, test your reaction times and spot the 10 elements discovered at the Ri in our fast-and-furious elements song.
• The Faraday Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of London, and entry is free. Prepare to be inspired by the legacy of scientific pioneers! 🌟🔬🏛️

Delve into the Legacy of William Morris at the William Morris Gallery

• Embark on a captivating journey through the life and works of William Morris, one of Britain’s most influential designers.
• The William Morris Gallery, nestled in the serene Lloyd Park in Walthamstow, London, celebrates Morris’s artistic genius and radical vision.
• Explore the world’s largest collection of Morris’s works, including textiles, wallpapers, ceramics, and furniture.
• Stand before iconic pieces like the ‘Design for Trellis Wallpaper’, the Sussex Armchair, and the poignant ‘The Lament’.
• Morris’s legacy extends beyond aesthetics; he was a socialist, a writer, and a champion of craftsmanship.
• The gallery invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty, ideals, and enduring impact of this remarkable designer. 🎨🏛️✨

The William Morris Gallery is a cultural gem that welcomes all visitors without any admission fee. You can explore the world’s largest collection of William Morris’s work from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10 am and 5 pm. Additionally, on Thursdays from May to September, the gallery extends its opening hours, closing at 8 pm. So, immerse yourself in the artistic and social legacy of this remarkable designer – all for free! 🎨🏛️✨

Embark on a Nautical Journey at the National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum houses a captivating collection of artifacts that span centuries of maritime history. Here are some notable items you won’t want to miss:

1. Tudor and Stuart Ship Models:
   • Explore a collection of meticulously crafted ship models from the Tudor and Stuart eras.
   • Witness the evolution of ship designs, from the floating castles of the 1500s (like the Mary Rose) to the three-deck ship Prince Royal (1610), the Navy’s largest vessel at the time. By the late 17th century, ships were faster, stronger, and more stable than ever before¹.
2. Robert Douglas Norman’s Pocket Watch:
   • Frozen at the exact time he entered the freezing waters during the Titanic disaster, this pocket watch tells a poignant story of tragedy and survival².
3. Edith Rosenbaum’s Lucky Toy Pig:
   • This toy pig has an incredible backstory. Owned by Edith Rosenbaum, a Titanic survivor, it symbolizes hope and resilience in the face of adversity².
4. Lillian Winifred Bentham’s Scout Whistle:
   • Used by Lillian Bentham to try to summon help during the Titanic disaster, this whistle represents courage and resourcefulness in a dire situation².
5. Admiral Lord Nelson’s Coat:
   • On display in the National Maritime Museum, this coat was worn by Admiral Lord Nelson when he was mortally wounded during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. You can even see the bullet hole in the coat’s left shoulder³.
6. Relics from Sir John Franklin’s Last Expedition:
   • The museum collection includes artifacts and documents from the Franklin Expedition, one of the worst disasters in British polar exploration history. The aim of the voyage was to find a route through the North-West Passage and carry out magnetic observations⁴.

These artifacts offer glimpses into the courage, tragedy, and triumphs of seafarers and explorers. Visit the National Maritime Museum to immerse yourself in their stories! 🌊🏛️⚓