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Welcome to London, where the allure of its cultural riches beckons even the most budget-conscious traveller. Amidst the bustling streets and iconic landmarks lies a treasure trove of free experiences waiting to be discovered.
In a city renowned for its high costs, it’s easy to feel daunted by the prospect of exploring its cultural offerings. But fear not! Several London museums open their doors without demanding a single pound from your pocket. From awe-inspiring art galleries to historic houses steeped in heritage, there’s something to captivate every curious soul.
So, lace up your most comfortable shoes and journey through London’s cultural landscape. With our curated list of 17 free museums in London, your exploration promises to be as enriching as affordable. Let the adventure begin!
Disclaimer: The information in this post was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change. The list below has been prepared according to the number of ratings in combination with the review score, which ranges from higher to lower.
Here is our list of the top 17 free museums in London
1. British Museum
- Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
- Website: https://www.britishmuseum.org/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7323 8000
- Events: Link
Housing over 8 million artefacts, this renowned institution offers an unparalleled journey through the annals of civilization. Each piece tells a story of human achievement and ingenuity, from the enigmatic Rosetta Stone to the majestic Parthenon sculptures. The museum has gained global popularity for bringing global cultures under one roof.
- Opening Times: The British Museum welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, on Fridays, the museum graciously extends its hours until 8:30 pm. The last entry is at 16:45 on regular days and at 19:30 on Fridays. The Museum remains closed between 24th to 26th December.
- Booking: During the weekdays, securing walk-in entry is relatively straightforward. Alternatively, for guaranteed admission, you can opt to book a timed slot in advance here.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 1,47,981 reviews on Google.
- Social Presence:
2. Science Museum
- Address: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD
- Website: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/home
- Phone Number: +44 (0)33 0058 0058
- Events: Link
The Science Museum offers a captivating exploration of technology’s role in our lives. “Exploring Space” showcases rocket science and lunar landings through immersive mock-ups, while “Making the Modern World” houses iconic artefacts like the Apollo 10 module and classic cars. With over 15,000 objects, interactive displays, and must-see exhibits such as Amy Johnson’s Gipsy Moth plane, it’s a hands-on journey through scientific marvels from 1750 to today.
- Opening Times: The museum operates from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm every day, with the last entry at 5:15 pm. Galleries begin to close 30 minutes before the museum’s closing time.
- Booking: Please note that a free ticket is required for entry. Reserve your slot here. For organised groups, you can book the slot here.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars with 65,075 reviews on Google
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Social Presence:
3. Victoria and Albert Museum
- Address: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD
- Website: https://www.vam.ac.uk/south-kensington
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7942 2000
- Collections: Link
Named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the Victoria and Albert Museum showcases an expansive collection of over 2.3 million art and design pieces, illustrating the evolution of creativity across mediums like fashion, furniture, sculpture, photography, and jewellery. The museum’s grand Victorian Gothic building is as remarkable inside as outside.
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- Opening Times: The regular hours are daily from 10:00 am to 5:45 pm. On Fridays, the visiting hours are extended until 10:00 pm, with some galleries remaining open after 5:45 pm. Please note that the Victoria and Albert Museum remains closed from December 24th to 26th.
- Booking: Admission is free for general entry; no prior booking is required.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 55,221 reviews on Google.
- Social Presence:
4. The National Gallery
- Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
- Website: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7747 2885
- Email: information@nationalgallery.org.uk
- Exhibitions: Link
Located in central London, the National Gallery showcases a collection of over two thousand paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Highlights include works by Van Eyck, Da Vinci, and Van Gogh.
- Opening Times: Operating hours are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm every day, except on Fridays, when closing time is extended to 9:00 pm. The National Gallery remains closed from the 24th to December 26th and January 1st. Free guided tours are offered daily from 2 to 3 pm.
- Booking: You are not required to book slots for museum entry, but the free slots tend to fill up rapidly. You can book in advance here.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 47,885 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence:
5. IWM London
- Address: Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ
- Website: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7416 5000
- Email: contact@iwm.org.uk
- Event: Link
Explore the profound narrative of modern warfare at the Imperial War Museum in Kennington. Through captivating exhibits spanning from the First World War to contemporary conflicts, visitors are immersed in the harsh realities of war. The museum’s diverse collection of letters, films, photographs, and artefacts offers a poignant insight into the impact of warfare on society.
- Opening Times: The museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and welcomes visitors throughout the week. However, it remains closed from December 24th to 26th.
- Booking: You can book in advance by clicking here. During peak hours, there might be a wait. To guarantee the visit of a school group, you can click here.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 27,066 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence:
6. Natural History Museum
- Address: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD
- Website: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7942 5000 from Monday-Sunday between 9.00 am –5.00 pm.
- News: Link
Imagine the captivating world of dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, where towering skeletons greet you upon entry—Marvel at the iconic T. Rex, the colossal titanosaur, and the majestic Stegosaurus. Explore beyond dinosaurs to discover various exhibits, from minerals and gems to real fossils from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
- Opening Times: Operating hours are from 10:00 am to 5:50 pm, with the last entry at 5:30 pm.
- Booking: You can access this museum for free, but it is recommended to book free tickets by clicking here to secure your spot.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 25,081 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence:
7. Tate Britain
- Address: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG
- Website: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7887 8888 (daily, operating from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm)
- Email: ticketing@tate.org.uk
- Events: Link
Tate Britain is a celebrated museum that hosts a vast array of British art from the 16th century to the present day. Featuring works by iconic artists such as Turner, Gainsborough, Hockney, and Emin, the museum appeals to art enthusiasts and those seeking discoveries.
- Opening Times: The Tate Britain Museum is open from Monday to Sunday between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.
- Booking: Booking is not required for freely accessible galleries.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 18,538 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence:
8. Royal Air Force Museum
- Address: Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL
- Website: https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 8205 2266
- Email: london@rafmuseum.org
- Virtual Events: Link
Explore aviation history at the Royal Air Force (RAF) Museum, home to over 80 aircraft, including RAF classics and international favourites. Located on the expansive grounds of the former Hendon Aerodrome, the museum features interactive exhibits suitable for all ages, including a pilot aptitude test and ‘Our Finest Hour’ experience detailing the Battle of Britain.
9. National Maritime Museum
- Address: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF
- Website: https://www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 8858 4422, Monday to Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.
- Email: RMGenquiries@rmg.co.uk
- Exhibition: Link
Located in historic Maritime Greenwich, the National Maritime Museum offers a captivating journey through Britain’s naval heritage, from legendary sea battles to groundbreaking explorations. Explore ancient maps, intricate ship models, and iconic artefacts like Admiral Nelson’s uniform worn during the Battle of Trafalgar.
- Social Presence:
10. Wallace Collection
- Address: Marylebone (Hertford House, W1U 3BN)
Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN
- Website: https://www.wallacecollection.org/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7563 9539
- Events: Link
Imagine a breathtaking array of 18th-century French furniture, paintings, and art adorning Hertford House. Once owned by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, this collection boasts stunning furnishings and exquisite porcelain. The Wallace Collection showcases masterpieces by renowned artists, including the iconic “Laughing Cavalier” by Franz Hals.
- Opening Times: Wallace Collection remains operative daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Booking: Admission to the primary collection is free and does not require a ticket. During opening hours, you can come and go without queuing for entry.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 7489 reviews on Google
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Social Presence:
11. Museum of London Docklands
- Address: 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, No, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL
- Website: https://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7814 5789
- Email: docklandsevents@museumoflondon.org.uk
- Events: Link
Explore London’s maritime history at the Museum of London Docklands, where interactive displays vividly depict life during the city’s 19th-century naval dominance. From its rough past to recent rejuvenation, learn about the transformation of London’s docklands through exhibits detailing workers, residents, buildings, trade unions, and even chilling footage from the Blitz.
- Opening Times: The museum remains open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Sunday. For optimal enjoyment, plan your visit with a last entry at 4:00 pm. The museum typically requires at least an hour to explore fully, ensuring you have ample time to engage with the exhibits. Additionally, please note that galleries begin to close 20 minutes before the official closing time.
- Booking: You can walk in during its opening hours for free.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.6/5 stars with 6232 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence: Same as the Museum of London
12. Sir John Soane’s Museum
- Address: 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3BP
- Website: https://www.soane.org/
- Phone Number: + 44 (0)20 7405 2107
- Email: admin@soane.org.uk
- Exhibitions: Link
A visit to Sir John Soane’s Museum is a must for architecture enthusiasts in London. Sir John Soane, an esteemed English architect, once lived in this museum, his former home, nearly two centuries ago, until his passing in 1837. Visitors can marvel at his impressive works, including handmade furniture, architectural models, and paintings.
- Opening Times: The operating hours are from Wednesday to Sunday, between 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Booking: Admission is free, and visitors can walk in on the day to explore the museum. However, advanced booking is required for groups of eight or more.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars with 3572 reviews on Google
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Social Presence:
13. London Mithraeum
- Address: 12 Walbrook, London EC4N 8AA
- Website: https://www.londonmithraeum.com/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7330 7500
- Email: info@londonmithraeum.com
- Events: Link
Explore the ancient Roman Temple of Mithras, constructed in AD 240 and unearthed in 1954 beneath the streets of the City of London. The London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE offers an immersive experience, blending ancient artefacts with contemporary art commissions at its site within Bloomberg’s European headquarters.
- Opening Times: Visitors are welcome at The London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE from Tuesday to Saturday, operating from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and on Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Wednesdays have slightly adjusted hours from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm during term time. Furthermore, the museum extends its operating hours until 8:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Please be aware that the museum remains closed on Mondays. Furthermore, it observes seasonal closures on December 25th and January 1st.
- Booking: Although it is free to visit, booking in advance is advisable to guarantee entry. Click here for individual bookings and here for school bookings.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars with 2655 reviews on Google
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Social Presence: Not Available
14. National Army Museum
- Address: Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HT
- Website: https://www.nam.ac.uk/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7730 0717
- Email: info@nam.ac.uk
- Events: Link
The National Army Museum comprehensively explores British military history, showcasing various artefacts, including weapons, uniforms, paintings, and photographs. More than just a collection, it is a dynamic learning environment where visitors can engage with the stories of soldiers across different eras and conflicts, from Waterloo to the Falklands War.
- Opening Times: The museum is closed on Mondays but open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. Please note that the museum building will be inaccessible from December 24th to 26th and on January 1st.
- Booking: There is no need to book in advance and general admission is free.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars with 2525 reviews on Google
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Social Presence:
- Facebook: 37K followers
- Twitter: 25.3K followers
- Instagram: 12.5K followers
- YouTube: 22.8K subscribers
15. Museum of the Home
- Address: 136 Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA
- Website: https://www.museumofthehome.org.uk/
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 7739 9893
- Events: Link
The Geffrye Museum of the Home offers a fresh perspective on domestic life. Explore collections spanning centuries, providing insight into historical family living. Stroll through the charming front gardens and marvel at the Grade I listed alms-house exterior, dating back to the 18th century. With its renewed vitality, the museum reaffirms its status as one of London’s top free attractions.
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- Opening Times: The operating hours are Tuesday through Sunday, including Bank Holidays, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Please be advised that the last entry is at 4:00 pm.
- Booking: Admission to the establishment is free, and there’s no need to make a prior booking.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.4/5 stars with 1782 reviews on Google.
16. Petrie Museum
- Address: Malet Pl, London WC1E 6BT
- Website: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum
- Phone Number: +44 (0)20 3108 9000
- Email: museums@ucl.ac.uk
- Exhibition: Link
The Petrie Museum, named after Flinders Petrie, UCL’s inaugural Professor of Egyptology and a dedicated excavator, houses over 80,000 artefacts essentially unearthed by Petrie himself. From the Palaeolithic era to the Islamic Period, the museum chronicles the evolution of Egyptian culture.
- Opening Times: Visitors are invited to explore the museum from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Friday and from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturdays. The Easter break will be from Thursday, March 28th, to April 3rd, 2024.
- Booking: Prior booking to the Petrie Museum is not required.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars with 282 reviews on TripAdvisor
4.7/5 stars with 514 reviews on Google.
17. Queer Britain
- Address: 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
- Website: https://queerbritain.org.uk/
- Email: hello@queerbritain.org.uk
- Events: Link
Since its opening in May 2022, Queer Britain has become one of London’s most popular free museums. As the UK’s first national museum dedicated to Queer culture, it showcases changing exhibitions that explore the lives and struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals. These exhibitions feature artwork by community members and retrospectives that challenge societal narratives.
- Opening Times: The museum remains open year-round from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesdays through Sundays.
- Booking: Admission to the museum is free, and prior booking isn’t required. Visitors are encouraged to donate to the museum either upon arrival or online.
- Ratings and Reviews: 4.8/5 stars with 204 reviews on Google.
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Social Presence:
London’s museums offer a fantastic refuge on rainy days, with many providing free entry and captivating exhibitions. From art galleries to historical wonders, many cultural experiences are waiting to be explored across the city.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these museums promise enriching encounters with history, art, and science. So, venture forth and discover free museums in London while saving your pennies for other adventures.
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