The free museums of London: A guide to the best state museums

One of the biggest advantages of visiting London is the free access to some of the most important museums in the world. While many European capitals charge high ticket prices for their collections, London maintains a tradition of accessible culture for everyone. Most British state museums do not require any entrance fee, allowing you to visit absolute masterpieces without spending a penny. In this guide, you will find the best free museums in London, with hours, tips, and what not to miss.

Why are London museums free?

The tradition of free museums in London dates back to 2001, when the Labour government decided to abolish entrance fees for national museums. The goal was to make culture accessible to everyone, citizens and tourists alike. Today, most museums funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) maintain free entry for permanent collections. Temporary exhibitions, on the other hand, are almost always paid.

1. British Museum

The British Museum is the most visited museum in the UK and one of the most important in the world. Its collections tell the story of human civilization, from its origins to the present day.

What not to miss

• The Rosetta Stone:The key that allowed the deciphering of Egyptian hieroglyphs. It is the most famous object in the museum.

• The Parthenon Marbles (Elgin Marbles):Sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens, among the most controversial and discussed in the museum.

• The mummy of Katebet:A perfectly preserved Egyptian priestess.

• The treasure of Sutton Hoo:An Anglo-Saxon find from the 7th century, with helmets and gold jewelry.

• The Rosetta Stone:(Yes, it deserves two mentions).

Practical information

• Address:Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

• Subway:Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern), Holborn (Central, Piccadilly), Russell Square (Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (until 8:30 PM on Fridays)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Arrive early or late (after 3:00 PM). The line can be long, but it moves quickly.

2. National Gallery

The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square houses one of the largest collections of European painting in the world, from the 13th to the 19th century.

What not to miss

• Van Gogh's Sunflowers:One of the most famous paintings in the world.

• Leonardo da Vinci's Virgin of the Rocks:A masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance.

• Caravaggio:"The Supper at Emmaus" is one of his masterpieces.

• The Turners:A vast collection of the English Romantic painter.

• The Arnolfini Portraits by Jan van Eyck:A masterpiece of Flemish painting.

Practical information

• Address:Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN

• Underground:Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern), Leicester Square (Northern, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (until 9:00 PM on Fridays)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Take the free audio guide (available in Italian) or download the official app.

3. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a paradise for children and nature lovers. Its collections of natural sciences are immense and spectacular.

What not to miss

• Dippy the Diplodocus:(Note: Dippy has been replaced by the suspended blue whale "Hope" in the central hall, but Dippy is on tour. Check.)

• The animatronic T-Rex:In the dinosaur area, an animatronic that moves and roars.

• The simulated earthquake:An interactive experience in the "Volcanoes and Earthquakes" area.

• The collection of minerals and gems:With giant crystals and meteorites.

• The blue whale skeleton:Hanging in the Hintze Hall, it is impressive.

Practical information

• Address:Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:50 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)

• Admission:Free. Some areas (e.g., the most interactive dinosaur exhibit) may have an admission fee.

• Tip:Book your free ticket online to skip the line (especially on weekends and during the summer).

4. Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

The V&A is the museum of decorative arts and design. It houses collections ranging from fashion to ceramics, furniture to jewelry, photography to theater.

What not to miss

• The jewelry collection:One of the most important in the world, with pieces ranging from antiquity to the present day.

• The Cast Court:Gigantic halls with plaster casts of famous monuments (Michelangelo's David, the Gates of Paradise from Florence).

• Fashion:Outfits worn by queens and celebrities, from the 18th century to today.

• The ceramics gallery:Thousands of pieces from around the world.

• The indoor garden:An oasis of peace with a fountain and a café.

Practical information

• Address:Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL (next to the Natural History Museum)

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:45 PM (Fridays until 10:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:On Friday evenings, the museum is open late with music, drinks, and a youthful atmosphere.

5. Science Museum

The Science Museum is the museum of science and technology. Interactive, engaging, and perfect for all ages.

What not to miss

• The Apollo 10 command capsule:One of the few space capsules displayed outside the United States.

• Stephenson's Rocket:A historic locomotive.

• The "Making the Modern World" area:Inventions that changed the world, from the first computer to the first telephone.

• Wonderlab:(Paid) An interactive area with scientific experiments for children.

• The flight simulator:(Paid) Experience the thrill of flying a plane.

Practical information

• Address:Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Admission:Free for permanent collections. Wonderlab and other interactive experiences are paid.

• Tip:IMAX cinema inside: the largest screen in London, featuring science films and blockbusters.

6. Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is the most visited museum of modern and contemporary art in the world. Located in a former power station on the South Bank, it is an architectural icon.

What not to miss

• The Turbine Hall:The immense central space that hosts site-specific installations by famous artists.

• The permanent collections:Works by Picasso, Warhol, Dalí, Rothko, Bacon, Hockney.

• The "The Tanks":Spaces dedicated to performance art and video installations.

• The panoramic terrace:On the 4th and 5th floors, spectacular views of the Thames and the city.

Practical information

• Address:Bankside, London SE1 9TG

• Subway:Southwark (Jubilee), Blackfriars (Circle, District), London Bridge (Jubilee, Northern)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday until 8:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Take the elevator to the 5th floor for the view. Then cross the Millennium Bridge to get to St. Paul's.

7. National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery, located next to the National Gallery, houses portraits of historical figures and famous Britons.

What not to miss

• The Tudor portraits:Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Anne Boleyn.

• The portrait of Shakespeare:The only certain portrait of the Bard.

• The gallery of prime ministers:From Robert Walpole to Keir Starmer.

• Contemporary portraits:Of David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, the royal family.

Practical information

• Address:St. Martin's Place, London WC2H 0HE (next to the National Gallery)

• Subway:Charing Cross, Leicester Square

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Friday until 9:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:After the renovation (2023), the museum is brighter and more accessible.

8. British Library

It is not a traditional museum, but the British Library hosts free permanent exhibitions featuring some of the most important documents in human history.

What not to miss

• The Magna Carta:One of the four original copies from 1215.

• The manuscript of Beowulf:The only surviving manuscript of the Anglo-Saxon epic poem.

• The works of Leonardo da Vinci:A sketchbook of drawings and notes.

• The original score of "Hey Jude" by The Beatles:With notes by Paul McCartney.

• The Gutenberg Bible:One of the first printed books in the world.

Practical information

• Address:96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB

• Subway:King's Cross St Pancras (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria)

• Hours:Mon-Thu 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM, Fri 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Sat 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Admission:Free for the "Treasures Gallery". Temporary exhibitions are paid.

9. Museum of London (awaiting reopening)

The Museum of London told the story of the city from prehistoric origins to the present day.Important note:The museum closed its London Wall location in 2022 and is relocating to a new site in Smithfield (Museum of London), with reopening expected in 2026. Check the status before you go.

10. Imperial War Museum (IWM London)

The Imperial War Museum tells the story of modern conflicts, with a particular focus on World War I and World War II.

What not to miss

• The atrium with the large vehicles:A Spitfire plane, a tank, a submarine.

• The World War I exhibition:Very moving and interactive.

• The "Holocaust Gallery":One of the most comprehensive and moving exhibitions on the Holocaust.

• The rooms dedicated to the Cold War and recent conflicts.

Practical information

• Address:Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ

• Underground:Lambeth North (Bakerloo), Elephant & Castle (Bakerloo, Northern)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

Summary table of free museums

Museum	Specialty	Underground	Recommended time	Suitable for children?
British Museum	Ancient history, Egyptians, Greeks	Tottenham Court Road	2-4 hours	Yes (6+)
National Gallery	European painting	Charing Cross	2-3 hours	Yes (8+)
Natural History Museum	Natural sciences, dinosaurs	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (all ages)
V&A	Decorative arts, design	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (with children's section)
Science Museum	Science, technology	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (all ages)
Tate Modern	Modern art	Southwark	1-2 hours	Yes (10+)
National Portrait Gallery	British portraits	Charing Cross	1-2 hours	No (adults)
British Library	Historical documents	King's Cross	1 hour	Yes (12+)
Imperial War Museum	Military history	Lambeth North	2-3 hours	Yes (10+)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the most important free museums in London?

The most important are the British Museum (ancient history), the National Gallery (painting), the Natural History Museum (sciences), the V&A (decorative art), and the Tate Modern (contemporary art). All have free entry.

Do I need to book free museums in London?

For the most part, it is not mandatory, but it isstrongly recommended.for the most popular museums (British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern) on weekends and during peak season. Booking is free and allows you to skip the line.

How long does it take to visit the British Museum?

At least 2 hours to see the most important pieces (Rosetta Stone, Parthenon marbles, mummies). For an in-depth visit, 4 hours or more are needed. It is huge.

Is the Natural History Museum suitable for children?

Yes, it is one of the most child-friendly museums in London. The dinosaurs, the simulated earthquake, the blue whale: children love it. The interactive area "Investigate" is perfect for the little ones.

Which museums have audio guides in Italian?

The British Museum and the National Gallery offer audio guides in Italian (for a fee, about £6-7). Other museums have guides in English, but much information is also available in Italian in the captions.

Can I bring a backpack or stroller into the museums?

Yes, but many museums require you to leave large backpacks in the free luggage storage (mandatory for security reasons). Strollers are generally allowed, but in some crowded areas, they may ask you to leave them at the entrance.

What is the best day to visit the free museums?

Avoid weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and rainy days (when everyone goes indoors). The best time is weekday afternoons (from 2:00 PM onwards) or Friday evenings (many museums are open late and are less crowded).

Are there paid exhibitions inside the free museums?

Yes, almost all museums have temporary paid exhibitions (£10-20). These exhibitions require a separate ticket and are often bookable online.

How much does it cost to enter the Tate Modern?

Entry to the permanent collections is free. Temporary exhibitions cost around £15-20. The view from the terrace is free.

Can I take photos in London museums?

Yes, for personal use, without flash and without a tripod. Some temporary exhibitions prohibit photography. Check the signs.

Free museums in London: A guide to the best state museums

One of the biggest advantages of visiting London is the free access to some of the most important museums in the world. While many European capitals charge high ticket prices for their collections, London maintains a tradition of accessible culture for everyone. Most British state museums do not require any entrance fee, allowing you to visit absolute masterpieces without spending a penny. In this guide, you will find the best free museums in London, with hours, tips, and what not to miss.

Why are London museums free?

The tradition of free museums in London dates back to 2001, when the Labour government decided to abolish entrance fees for national museums. The goal was to make culture accessible to everyone, citizens and tourists alike. Today, most museums funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) maintain free entry for permanent collections. Temporary exhibitions, on the other hand, are almost always paid.

1. British Museum

The British Museum is the most visited museum in the UK and one of the most important in the world. Its collections tell the story of human civilization, from its origins to the present day.

What not to miss

• The Rosetta Stone:The key that allowed the deciphering of Egyptian hieroglyphs. It is the most famous object in the museum.

• The Parthenon Marbles (Elgin Marbles):Sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens, among the most controversial and discussed in the museum.

• The mummy of Katebet:A perfectly preserved Egyptian priestess.

• The treasure of Sutton Hoo:An Anglo-Saxon find from the 7th century, with helmets and gold jewelry.

• The Rosetta Stone:(Yes, it deserves two mentions).

Practical information

• Address:Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

• Subway:Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern), Holborn (Central, Piccadilly), Russell Square (Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (until 8:30 PM on Fridays)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Arrive early or late (after 3:00 PM). The line can be long, but it moves quickly.

2. National Gallery

The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square houses one of the largest collections of European painting in the world, from the 13th to the 19th century.

What not to miss

• Van Gogh's Sunflowers:One of the most famous paintings in the world.

• Leonardo da Vinci's Virgin of the Rocks:A masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance.

• Caravaggio:"The Supper at Emmaus" is one of his masterpieces.

• The Turners:A vast collection of the English Romantic painter.

• The Arnolfini Portraits by Jan van Eyck:A masterpiece of Flemish painting.

Practical information

• Address:Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN

• Underground:Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern), Leicester Square (Northern, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (until 9:00 PM on Fridays)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Take the free audio guide (available in Italian) or download the official app.

3. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a paradise for children and nature lovers. Its collections of natural sciences are immense and spectacular.

What not to miss

• Dippy the Diplodocus:(Note: Dippy has been replaced by the suspended blue whale "Hope" in the central hall, but Dippy is on tour. Check.)

• The animatronic T-Rex:In the dinosaur area, an animatronic that moves and roars.

• The simulated earthquake:An interactive experience in the "Volcanoes and Earthquakes" area.

• The collection of minerals and gems:With giant crystals and meteorites.

• The blue whale skeleton:Hanging in the Hintze Hall, it is impressive.

Practical information

• Address:Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:50 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)

• Admission:Free. Some areas (e.g., the most interactive dinosaur exhibit) may have an admission fee.

• Tip:Book your free ticket online to skip the line (especially on weekends and during the summer).

4. Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

The V&A is the museum of decorative arts and design. It houses collections ranging from fashion to ceramics, furniture to jewelry, photography to theater.

What not to miss

• The jewelry collection:One of the most important in the world, with pieces ranging from antiquity to the present day.

• The Cast Court:Gigantic halls with plaster casts of famous monuments (Michelangelo's David, the Gates of Paradise from Florence).

• Fashion:Outfits worn by queens and celebrities, from the 18th century to today.

• The ceramics gallery:Thousands of pieces from around the world.

• The indoor garden:An oasis of peace with a fountain and a café.

Practical information

• Address:Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL (next to the Natural History Museum)

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 5:45 PM (Fridays until 10:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:On Friday evenings, the museum is open late with music, drinks, and a youthful atmosphere.

5. Science Museum

The Science Museum is the museum of science and technology. Interactive, engaging, and perfect for all ages.

What not to miss

• The Apollo 10 command capsule:One of the few space capsules displayed outside the United States.

• Stephenson's Rocket:A historic locomotive.

• The "Making the Modern World" area:Inventions that changed the world, from the first computer to the first telephone.

• Wonderlab:(Paid) An interactive area with scientific experiments for children.

• The flight simulator:(Paid) Experience the thrill of flying a plane.

Practical information

• Address:Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD

• Underground:South Kensington (Circle, District, Piccadilly)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Admission:Free for permanent collections. Wonderlab and other interactive experiences are paid.

• Tip:IMAX cinema inside: the largest screen in London, featuring science films and blockbusters.

6. Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is the most visited museum of modern and contemporary art in the world. Located in a former power station on the South Bank, it is an architectural icon.

What not to miss

• The Turbine Hall:The immense central space that hosts site-specific installations by famous artists.

• The permanent collections:Works by Picasso, Warhol, Dalí, Rothko, Bacon, Hockney.

• The "The Tanks":Spaces dedicated to performance art and video installations.

• The panoramic terrace:On the 4th and 5th floors, spectacular views of the Thames and the city.

Practical information

• Address:Bankside, London SE1 9TG

• Subway:Southwark (Jubilee), Blackfriars (Circle, District), London Bridge (Jubilee, Northern)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday until 8:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:Take the elevator to the 5th floor for the view. Then cross the Millennium Bridge to get to St. Paul's.

7. National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery, located next to the National Gallery, houses portraits of historical figures and famous Britons.

What not to miss

• The Tudor portraits:Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Anne Boleyn.

• The portrait of Shakespeare:The only certain portrait of the Bard.

• The gallery of prime ministers:From Robert Walpole to Keir Starmer.

• Contemporary portraits:Of David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, the royal family.

Practical information

• Address:St. Martin's Place, London WC2H 0HE (next to the National Gallery)

• Subway:Charing Cross, Leicester Square

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Friday until 9:00 PM)

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

• Tip:After the renovation (2023), the museum is brighter and more accessible.

8. British Library

It is not a traditional museum, but the British Library hosts free permanent exhibitions featuring some of the most important documents in human history.

What not to miss

• The Magna Carta:One of the four original copies from 1215.

• The manuscript of Beowulf:The only surviving manuscript of the Anglo-Saxon epic poem.

• The works of Leonardo da Vinci:A sketchbook of drawings and notes.

• The original score of "Hey Jude" by The Beatles:With notes by Paul McCartney.

• The Gutenberg Bible:One of the first printed books in the world.

Practical information

• Address:96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB

• Subway:King's Cross St Pancras (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria)

• Hours:Mon-Thu 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM, Fri 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Sat 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Admission:Free for the "Treasures Gallery". Temporary exhibitions are paid.

9. Museum of London (awaiting reopening)

The Museum of London told the story of the city from prehistoric origins to the present day.Important note:The museum closed its London Wall location in 2022 and is relocating to a new site in Smithfield (Museum of London), with reopening expected in 2026. Check the status before you go.

10. Imperial War Museum (IWM London)

The Imperial War Museum tells the story of modern conflicts, with a particular focus on World War I and World War II.

What not to miss

• The atrium with the large vehicles:A Spitfire plane, a tank, a submarine.

• The World War I exhibition:Very moving and interactive.

• The "Holocaust Gallery":One of the most comprehensive and moving exhibitions on the Holocaust.

• The rooms dedicated to the Cold War and recent conflicts.

Practical information

• Address:Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ

• Underground:Lambeth North (Bakerloo), Elephant & Castle (Bakerloo, Northern)

• Hours:Every day 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Admission:Free. Temporary exhibitions are paid.

Summary table of free museums

Museum	Specialty	Underground	Recommended time	Suitable for children?
British Museum	Ancient history, Egyptians, Greeks	Tottenham Court Road	2-4 hours	Yes (6+)
National Gallery	European painting	Charing Cross	2-3 hours	Yes (8+)
Natural History Museum	Natural sciences, dinosaurs	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (all ages)
V&A	Decorative arts, design	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (with children's section)
Science Museum	Science, technology	South Kensington	2-3 hours	Yes (all ages)
Tate Modern	Modern art	Southwark	1-2 hours	Yes (10+)
National Portrait Gallery	British portraits	Charing Cross	1-2 hours	No (adults)
British Library	Historical documents	King's Cross	1 hour	Yes (12+)
Imperial War Museum	Military history	Lambeth North	2-3 hours	Yes (10+)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the most important free museums in London?

The most important are the British Museum (ancient history), the National Gallery (painting), the Natural History Museum (sciences), the V&A (decorative art), and the Tate Modern (contemporary art). All have free entry.

Do I need to book free museums in London?

For the most part, it is not mandatory, but it isstrongly recommended.for the most popular museums (British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern) on weekends and during peak season. Booking is free and allows you to skip the line.

How long does it take to visit the British Museum?

At least 2 hours to see the most important pieces (Rosetta Stone, Parthenon marbles, mummies). For an in-depth visit, 4 hours or more are needed. It is huge.

Is the Natural History Museum suitable for children?

Yes, it is one of the most child-friendly museums in London. The dinosaurs, the simulated earthquake, the blue whale: children love it. The interactive area "Investigate" is perfect for the little ones.

Which museums have audio guides in Italian?

The British Museum and the National Gallery offer audio guides in Italian (for a fee, about £6-7). Other museums have guides in English, but much information is also available in Italian in the captions.

Can I bring a backpack or stroller into the museums?

Yes, but many museums require you to leave large backpacks in the free luggage storage (mandatory for security reasons). Strollers are generally allowed, but in some crowded areas, they may ask you to leave them at the entrance.

What is the best day to visit the free museums?

Avoid weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and rainy days (when everyone goes indoors). The best time is weekday afternoons (from 2:00 PM onwards) or Friday evenings (many museums are open late and are less crowded).

Are there paid exhibitions inside the free museums?

Yes, almost all museums have temporary paid exhibitions (£10-20). These exhibitions require a separate ticket and are often bookable online.

How much does it cost to enter the Tate Modern?

Entry to the permanent collections is free. Temporary exhibitions cost around £15-20. The view from the terrace is free.

Can I take photos in London museums?

Yes, for personal use, without flash and without a tripod. Some temporary exhibitions prohibit photography. Check the signs.

Culture for everyone

The free museums in London are one of the most valuable resources for visitors to the city. With a little planning, you can see absolute masterpieces like the Rosetta Stone, Van Gogh's Sunflowers, the T-Rex, and the knights' armor without spending a penny. Remember to book online during peak times, arrive early or late to avoid queues, and dedicate at least half a day to each museum. Culture in London is truly for everyone. Take advantage of it!

For a complete guide covering all aspects of the trip:holidays in London.

Review date:March 2026