The Best Museums to Visit in London

• By: Editor
• On: 08/Jul/2009
• In: UK Travel Tips

The British Museum Located at Great Russell Street, The British Museum was esthablished in 1753 and originally was drawn from the collections of Sir Hans Sloane. It consists of major works from prehistoric times to modern day, with collections coming from all over the world. You will find historical works such as the Rosetta Stone, Portland Vase, treasures from Mildenhall and Parthenon Sculptures.

Check out the "Reading Room" which was one of the places where Karl Marx researched and wrote! The Ancient Egypt Collection is something to savour – not only for the treasures and artefacts to be found, but also the sights of well preserved mummies! And best of all, admission to the British Museum is FREE of charge! There are also special exhibitions and daily tours of the galleries and Museum.

The Science Museum At the wonderful Science Museum you will learn all about the role of science in the major discoveries of the world, from the power of Stephenson’s Rocket to the Apollo 10 Space Module. Located at Exhibition Road, this museum dedicates its spectacular exhibition space to the worlds of science and technology. There is also a "Launch Area" for children where they are able to get involved in the fun but also educational interactive science exhibitions.

Entrance to the Museum is free but there are charges applying to the 3D Cinema and some exhibitions there.

The Natural History Museum Located on Cromwell Road, just behind the Science Museum. It is a remarkable place with many exhibitions, and you will find out exactly what it is like to be stuck in an earthquake! A visit here will enable you to find out just what is beyond the earth’s surface and check out many of the rock and mineral forms that make up the surface of the earth. The Dinosaur Skeleton Exhibitions from the Jurassic Era will also fascinate you! Both Children and adults will be fascinated by this wonderful place.

The Imperial War Museum A visit to the Imperial War Museum will give you a unique insight into the story of those who fought and died in major conflicts from World War One to the present day. You will learn all about the horrible trench conditions that were endured by soldiers during the Great War 1914-18, the role of the Spy in Wartime Europe, and learn about civilian and children’s life throughout the London Evacuation of World War Two and the Blitz.

The interactive displays and exhibitions make a visit here a fascinating experience, especially the moving Holocaust Exhibition. You will see for yourself old warplanes such as a Spitfire and a Mustang, along with armoured tanks!

The Victoria and Albert Museum A visit to this museum will enable you to cast your eye on an amazing array of furnishings, paintings, ceramics, glass, jewellery and art. The Museum is a place where three millenniums worth of fascinating objects are located. Some of the many highlights include the British Galleries, Renaissance Sculpture and artefacts from Roman and Celtic Britain. 

Also recommended at the Victoria and Albert Museum is a visit to the National Museum of Childhood, home to a large toy collection that will greatly entertain the younger members of the family! From puppets and dolls to games from all over the world, there is something for children of all ages here!
Admission is free but exhibitions at the Museum usually have a cover charge.

Find out more about London’s Museums.

Visiting London this year and planning to visit its many Museums for some culture? You will need a car to get around so check out our Car Hire London page.

Been to London and visited one or some of its many Museums? Have you got any information that you would like to share about Museums in London? Please let us know - your comments are most appreciated!