The British Museum
The British Museum
4.5
10:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
A museum of the world, for the world. Discover over two million years of human history and culture. Some of the world-famous objects include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures and Egyptian mummies.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Bloomsbury
Snuggly nestled within Central London is academic and leafy Bloomsbury, an area that boasts walking distance access to many of London's most popular attractions. It is also home to some of Britain's most celebrated museums, including the must-see British Museum. Despite an understandable popularity with students, tourists and day trippers, vast sections of Bloomsbury retain a quiet, residential feel year round and throughout the week.
How to get there
- Tottenham Court Road • 6 min walk
- Russell Square • 6 min walk
Reach out directly
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Restaurants
10,000 within 3 miles
Attractions
2,327 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- KevinMountain View, California93 contributionsLots of stuff to see related to history, very crowded.I only had time for about 2-3 hours at the British Museum, but you could easily spend an entire day here because this place is HUGE. Most of the exhibits cover history of different civilizations like Egypt, Greece, Asia, among others. There's a lot of stuff to read and artifacts to look at. The Rosetta Stone is located here as well, which was pretty cool to see in person. It does get pretty busy, especially considering admission is free. If you've got the time, definitely worth checking out if learning about history is your thing.Visited April 2023Traveled soloWritten May 10, 2023
- GGG12342017Singapore, Singapore208 contributionsExcellent!My second time at this monstrous museum and if I am in London again, I will definitely return. There are so many great finds here that one visit is never enough and the exhibits must be continuously seen to fully appreciate their beauty and their value. The standout artifact is the Rosetta Stone. The carvings are beautiful and by viewing it up close and personal you fully appreciate the value and power of these ancient writings. This and many other artifacts of significant historical importance. I wish I had more time to take them all in!Visited May 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 12, 2023
- Diana GWorld2 contributionsA must in your listStunning museum, my partner and me needed hours to see every item and admire every culture. History, science, architecture, sculpture, jewelry and so much more. You need more than only one day to see and admire every part of this wonderful museum, one of my favorites.Visited December 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten May 13, 2023
- Robert DBoston, Massachusetts93 contributionsWell worth a visitThe wealth of exhibits and the fact that it is free make this a must-see whenever you visit London. The crowds can be a bit much, so that that timing can be important. Tour groups tend to descend, so look for buses parked out back. There is so much to see that you may need more than one day!Visited May 2023Written May 13, 2023
- BelysaLondon, United Kingdom7 contributionsA Must-VisitFrom the impressive architecture to the fascinating galleries and breathtaking artifacts, the museum has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, the world-renowned exhibits at the British Museum are sure to blow you away. From Egyptian mummies to ancient Greek sculptures, there's something here to spark the imagination of all ages. So don't miss out - come experience the wonders of the British Museum!Visited May 2023Written May 17, 2023
- BennettLondon, United Kingdom19 contributionsA Must-Visit for History and Art LoversThe British Museum London is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and art. With extensive collections, stunning sculptures, inspiring displays and free admission, it is a great place to spend the day learning and exploring. The museum is home to artifacts from around the world, allowing visitors to learn about different cultures and their histories. The galleries are beautifully laid out, making it easy to explore and take in the sights. The interactive displays are particularly interesting, allowing visitors to get a more in-depth look at the history and culture of the objects. There is also an impressive collection of sculptures, both ancient and modern, that will leave you in awe.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 22, 2023
- Ken JVancouver, Canada73 contributionsThe day wasn't long enough!My visit to the British Museum was a highlight of my time in London. Sure, it's fee if you want to cheap out, but make a sizeable donation. I believe it is worth it. There are over 60 galleries and there has to be at least a few that would interest every visitor. My favs are the Egyption Sculptures, the Greek and Roman Rooms, the nations of MesoAmerica, the Enlightenment, the Money gallery . . . the list is long. What a beautiful collection!Visited May 2023Written May 25, 2023
- JuneSingapore, Singapore42 contributionsGreat experienceThe British Museum is a must-see for both locals and tourists alike. The museum boasts a wide range of historical artefacts and you can easily spend a day here going from one exhibit to the next. The gift shop also sells some pretty cool items so be sure to check that out for a souvenir home.Visited December 2022Written June 5, 2023
- SwSe86Saint Clair Shores, Michigan140 contributionsBeautiful MuseumWent with some friends in London and really enjoyed our day at the museum. It is large and didn't feel crowded even though the long security line outside says differently. Entrance is free but with a suggested donation. The exhibits are well displayed and labeledVisited May 2023Traveled with friendsWritten June 6, 2023
- TWOGTHEPUG24 contributionsGood 1-2 hour activityInteresting museum! The Egypt exhibits were the most interesting and are a must see. It’s nice that the museum is free, but do not bring kids if you don’t like constant complaining and want to stay for longer than an hour!! It’s also pretty crowded, but there are always some less crowded rooms.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 9, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
74,120 reviews
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Lalita
7 contributions
Sep 2020
The newly re-opened British Museum can be visited as long as you book in advance on line for a timed visit.
The ground floor which has such things as the Rosetta stone, the Parat's more than enough for tourists on a first time visit as it's massive. There is a one way system which is easy to follow and no danger from Covid 19! Staff are availalable as always to ask questions and the queue for the Ladies was monitored to prevent too many people crowding together.
Excellent visit. I'll be back.
The ground floor which has such things as the Rosetta stone, the Parat's more than enough for tourists on a first time visit as it's massive. There is a one way system which is easy to follow and no danger from Covid 19! Staff are availalable as always to ask questions and the queue for the Ladies was monitored to prevent too many people crowding together.
Excellent visit. I'll be back.
Written September 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KimbKo
Bostonian36 contributions
Jan 2020
We were a group of six who purchased tickets to a private tour, there are a few each day, that begins at 8:50 when the museum is not yet open. It was such a joy to have a knowledgeable guide to take us through a virtually empty museum. This museum is one of the best in the world and daily admission is free so it gets crowded. Go early or book the private tour. It is really very much worth it.
Written January 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steviefull
Kidderminster, UK1,767 contributions
Oct 2021
We were looking for something to do on our arrival in London and this seemed like a good way to spend the 3 hours or so we had spare. The museum has timed entry in effect to limit the number of people at any one time, so it was worth booking in advance just to be sure.
The museum has a bit of everything, set across many rooms, I do recommend downloading the app as it has two separate tours on it, 1 hour and 3 hours, so it will guide you through the highlights.
My personal highlight is the egyptian area with some large impressive statues and sarcophagus.
If you have the time, do not hesitate to visit and please make a donation.
The museum has a bit of everything, set across many rooms, I do recommend downloading the app as it has two separate tours on it, 1 hour and 3 hours, so it will guide you through the highlights.
My personal highlight is the egyptian area with some large impressive statues and sarcophagus.
If you have the time, do not hesitate to visit and please make a donation.
Written October 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sidney
7 contributions
Jan 2020
As someone who loves ancient Greek and Roman history, I had so much fun
I bought an Audio Guide which was amazing because it really helped supplement the plaques that were with each item
If you're like me, who wants to see anything and everything, you need a lot of time. I think I spent about 6 hours in there and I didn't even see any other floor except the ground floor.
Wasn't terribly crowded when I went, though it did get a bit busy around 15-16:00 (3-4 pm)
Also while I was there, I got to see the Troy: Myth and Reality exhibition. That was fantastic to see and it gave great information, whilst giving you a story as you walk-through
Overall, if you like history, and you don't mind spending several hours in the museum, then I highly recommend
I bought an Audio Guide which was amazing because it really helped supplement the plaques that were with each item
If you're like me, who wants to see anything and everything, you need a lot of time. I think I spent about 6 hours in there and I didn't even see any other floor except the ground floor.
Wasn't terribly crowded when I went, though it did get a bit busy around 15-16:00 (3-4 pm)
Also while I was there, I got to see the Troy: Myth and Reality exhibition. That was fantastic to see and it gave great information, whilst giving you a story as you walk-through
Overall, if you like history, and you don't mind spending several hours in the museum, then I highly recommend
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crystalwaters123
Mumbai, India519 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Ended up going to this museum on a rainy day.. The lines were long - however didn’t take much time to get in..
Like most London museums this is free - there is a recommended £5 donation.. The audio guide is £7..
The museum itself looks gorgeous - very modern.. It has a vast collection of artifacts ranging from varying times in history and has a collection spread across many countries.. I especially enjoyed the Indus Valley and the Chinese collections..
Like most London museums this is free - there is a recommended £5 donation.. The audio guide is £7..
The museum itself looks gorgeous - very modern.. It has a vast collection of artifacts ranging from varying times in history and has a collection spread across many countries.. I especially enjoyed the Indus Valley and the Chinese collections..
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natasha Smith
United Kingdom5 contributions
Jan 2020
The British museum is very big. It has regular collections on display all the time and temporary displays which change every month or so. It has paid exhibitions and it used to show really good films on a friday evening for £3 etc in the lecture theatre but they seeemed to have stopped doing that recently which is ashame.
Written April 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul James H
151 contributions
Sep 2020 • Solo
Although the British Museum is free to enter, you still have to get a ticket; as social distancing limits the visitor numbers.
There is a large Egyptian area of the museum, taking you from the 4th millenium Bc, through the 3rd millenium Bc. There are interesting peices(doors), that depict Eqyptian life. Many statues to the various gods, and statues to pharoas; believed to be almost semi gods. I didn't realise that the depictions on the pharoa's tombs, were to represent what they want to have in the afterlife. Believing that the images would become real, these became quite detailed.
After this there's the early Greek, Minoans and Miceneans, and their culture, with musical instruments made out of bone. Next you have Greek vases and the Roman period, with bits of the Parthenon kept here (and abroad). There is also a complete recreation of the Parthenon, to give it some perspective. The statues are next, and then lead on to Assyria and the Balawat gates, and from there you have the modern African collection. It is important to note here, that knowledge about how the items were aquired, is given.
The African sulptures and arms, represent items that were for years excluded from museum collections. Their weapons of war and beliefs, contrast with those of the west. If you get a chance, there's a cystal skull from South America, just before this Collection. It is unknown whether it is genuine, or not. But it is in a glass case, and thought to hold some sort of energy/power.
You can easily stay all day here, but please note that it only opens Wednesday to Sunday.
A great day out, and if you still want some more information than the displays give you, you can use a QR reader (throughout the place). Alternatively go to the Google play store and download the British museum audio guide (for a fee ) from there.
There is a large Egyptian area of the museum, taking you from the 4th millenium Bc, through the 3rd millenium Bc. There are interesting peices(doors), that depict Eqyptian life. Many statues to the various gods, and statues to pharoas; believed to be almost semi gods. I didn't realise that the depictions on the pharoa's tombs, were to represent what they want to have in the afterlife. Believing that the images would become real, these became quite detailed.
After this there's the early Greek, Minoans and Miceneans, and their culture, with musical instruments made out of bone. Next you have Greek vases and the Roman period, with bits of the Parthenon kept here (and abroad). There is also a complete recreation of the Parthenon, to give it some perspective. The statues are next, and then lead on to Assyria and the Balawat gates, and from there you have the modern African collection. It is important to note here, that knowledge about how the items were aquired, is given.
The African sulptures and arms, represent items that were for years excluded from museum collections. Their weapons of war and beliefs, contrast with those of the west. If you get a chance, there's a cystal skull from South America, just before this Collection. It is unknown whether it is genuine, or not. But it is in a glass case, and thought to hold some sort of energy/power.
You can easily stay all day here, but please note that it only opens Wednesday to Sunday.
A great day out, and if you still want some more information than the displays give you, you can use a QR reader (throughout the place). Alternatively go to the Google play store and download the British museum audio guide (for a fee ) from there.
Written September 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ElleDLosAngeles
Los Angeles25 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Visiting from California, I took off without the family for a trip to this amazing Museum - not my first visit and definitely not my last I hope. While the line seems long, it moves relatively quickly and if you can manage without a backpack you’ll likely be shepherded I to separate and much quicker line that doesn’t require extensive search of belongings. This is an immense museum and any notion that you could do it in a day is impossible to accomplish. So recommend a little research before going and identifying the areas of prime interest - mine was Egyptology and Ancient Britain. I did get an audio
Your but be aware in peak they do run out for a while until returned. The descriptions on the items displayed are detailed and will probably inspire you to learn more once leaving. While I didn’t travel with the grandkids on this visit they have what seems to be a really good family activity visit, with things for the kids to look out for as you tour around. Architecturally it isn’t as gorgeous as the naturalhistory museum but the contents and exhibits more than make up for it. Really a spectacular place and worth the visit
Your but be aware in peak they do run out for a while until returned. The descriptions on the items displayed are detailed and will probably inspire you to learn more once leaving. While I didn’t travel with the grandkids on this visit they have what seems to be a really good family activity visit, with things for the kids to look out for as you tour around. Architecturally it isn’t as gorgeous as the naturalhistory museum but the contents and exhibits more than make up for it. Really a spectacular place and worth the visit
Written January 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joyce
514 contributions
Oct 2020
The museum is open, but COVID-19 measures are in place. All guests will have to enter through the Great Russell Street entrance and exit through the Montague Place. Everyone's bags are checked. You will have to prebook a time to enter the museum - tickets are still free (there is an option to voluntarily donate!) but you will need to present your barcode to the front desk in order to go through to the exhibits. The coat and baggage areas are closed, so you'll be carrying everything with you around the museum. Most cafe and sit down ares are also closed, but there are still places in the museum you can get food and drink (near the entrance). Special exhibitions still require you to book and pay for a ticket. Everyone, unless exempted, must wear a mask at all times inside the museum. Many doors separating different galleries and museums have hand sanitisers.
All visitors are required to follow the arrows on the floor to walk through the museum. Unfortunately, many of the smaller galleries and rooms have been closed off for social distancing purposes, but the gems of the museum, the Ancient Egyptian and Greek galleries are still open for everyone to admire.
Social distancing measures are also being observed in the gift shops and in the bathrooms, so only a certain amount of people will be allowed in at any time.
While tourist numbers in London are down significantly, there were still surprisingly quite a few people coming into the museum late in the afternoon! I visited the museum 6 years ago and I found it fantastic; this time round my feelings have not changed.
All visitors are required to follow the arrows on the floor to walk through the museum. Unfortunately, many of the smaller galleries and rooms have been closed off for social distancing purposes, but the gems of the museum, the Ancient Egyptian and Greek galleries are still open for everyone to admire.
Social distancing measures are also being observed in the gift shops and in the bathrooms, so only a certain amount of people will be allowed in at any time.
While tourist numbers in London are down significantly, there were still surprisingly quite a few people coming into the museum late in the afternoon! I visited the museum 6 years ago and I found it fantastic; this time round my feelings have not changed.
Written October 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stuart C
Rayleigh, UK2,981 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
While entrance to this fantastic museum is free the Troy - Myth and Reality is an extra £20 per adult. You can buy in advance although the day of my visits lost of time slots had availability so I just turned up and purchased my ticket in the main hall and then went straight in. The first and to me most interesting section talked about the myth with lots of mainly Roman artefacts telling the story of the siege of Troy. Many were from the museums own collection but included exhibits from Berlin, the Ashmoleam and other museums. It was all very well told in chronological order using the exhibits. The second section is the actual finds from the real Troy. While the discovery was explained there was little attempt at describing what the city was actually like and it’s place in the ancient World and it mainly consisted of pots and everyday objects. The final section is some of the artwork depicting Troy through the ages. I really enjoyed it particularly the first section on the legend but came away wishing they had explained the ancient city better.
Written January 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2014sora
Japan43 contributions
I made a free time and day reservation, but I want to change the date.
How can I change it?
Thank you.
Devendra G
India968 contributions
Entry to the museum is free. U can book a fresh ticket online, its free of cost.
Buongiorno, c’è un guardaroba all’interno del museo dove posso lasciare il mio bagaglio?
AgoMauro
Montesilvano, Italy55 contributions
Si è disponibile
I have a boking on Tuesday at 12.20. I'd like to know if possible to let/leave my luggage at the garderobe. I mention that is a small luggage of 40X40X20 cm.
Thank you for your answer.
pjmdvm
Atlanta, GA1,846 contributions
I don't recall anyone having luggage standing in line near me, but From the museum website on "facilities" (see below). Honestly, leaving in a hotel check might be better if possible, but it says any luggage with wheels is not allowed.
Visitor and Member cloakroom
Opening hours: 11.00–17.00 (20.30 on Fridays).
Last deposits are one hour before closing time.
Please collect items 30 minutes before closing time.
The cloakroom can be found by turning left immediately after passing through the Main entrance to the Museum.
Please note that items of luggage weighing more than 8kg and larger than 40x40x50cm (including all wheeled suitcases) are not permitted.
Please see the restricted items section for full details.
Storage for luggage is available at major rail stations, including Euston, King's Cross and Charing Cross.
Use of the cloakroom is charged per-item:
Coats – £2
Bags up to 4kg – £2.50
Bags 4–8kg – £5
Umbrellas – £1
Fold-up pushchairs – free
Members can use the cloakroom free of charge. The same restrictions apply.
You must retrieve items from the cloakroom before you leave the Museum site.
In the event of a fire evacuation, the cloakroom will be closed immediately and you must follow our fire evacuation instructions. Our staff will help to retrieve your items from the cloakroom as soon as possible after the Museum reopens.
Please note that the cloakroom has limited capacity, and when this capacity is reached, it cannot accept items until space becomes available again.
The Museum reserves the right to vary or alter these conditions without prior notice.
Paula S
Rio de Janeiro, RJ155 contributions
É necessário fazer reserva ou marcar horário para entrar no museu?
Thomas G
Gumligen, Switzerland14 contributions
Es posible visitar el museo sin resera. Pero hay que esperar colas más largas. Por tanto es recomandable reservar. Esto es muy simple. Si alguien no respeta el horario y llega tarde, el personal es muy servicial.
KLG
Old Orchard Beach, ME1 contribution
If we buy the tickets at British Museum for the Persia exhibit, do we need to reserve general admission tickets as well
Sophie-Reviews8923
London, UK62 contributions
If you’ve got exhibition tickets, you join a different queue outside, so I don’t believe you need general admission tickets too to get in!
If you’re worried about it, it’s free to reserve general admission so you can do that on top of your exhibition ticket to be safe. Aside from during Covid, I’ve never been asked for my general admission ticket so I wouldn’t worry too much :)
Adriana P
3 contributions
Buongiorno, per chi ha prenotato già i biglietti per il british museo. Qualcuno di voi a prenotato più di un biglietto e hanno soltanto chiesto un nominativo? E il resto dei biglietti ha il nome di chi ha prenotato e non il proprio?
Antonio C68
Florence, Italy332 contributions
comunque ci sono giorni una volta al mese in cui i musei sono gratis ed aperti al pubblico ultimamente erano gratis tutti gli ingressi
I am going to London from the 6th april to the 10th. I've seen that the tickets for the British Museum are sold out from 6 to 12 april. Dos that mean that there is no chance to visit the Museum in any of those days?
Marianne
Kingskerswell, UK14 contributions
you don't need tickets for most of the museum, you can just turn up. are you talking about the travelling exhibitions?
Επιτρέπονται τα σκυλάκια μέσα σε ειδικό σάκο μεταφοράς?
Giorgio T
Monleale2,558 contributions
Non so, però ho visitato il Museo molte volte e non mi è mai capitato di vedere un cane.
CIAO Giorgio
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Claim your listingThe British Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about The British Museum
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience The British Museum:
- British Museum Guided Tour (From $70.88)
- Kid-Friendly Private British Museum Highlights and Walk to Covent Garden London (From $282.43)
- The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max (From $109.81)
- Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise (From $55.93)
- London Tootbus Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and Thames River Cruise (From $58.47)
- Hotels near The British Museum:
- (0.08 mi) The Montague on The Gardens
- (0.09 mi) Astor Museum Hostel
- (0.10 mi) Morgan Hotel
- (0.08 mi) Ruskin Bed & Breakfast
- (0.18 mi) The Bloomsbury Hotel
- Restaurants near The British Museum:
- (0.02 mi) Great Court Restaurant
- (0.03 mi) Benugo - British Museum
- (0.08 mi) The Blue Door Bistro
- (0.09 mi) Museum Tavern
- (0.08 mi) Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens
- Attractions near The British Museum:
- (0.02 mi) THATMuse,Treasure Hunt at the Museum
- (0.03 mi) Queen Elizabeth II Great Court
- (0.09 mi) Bloomsbury Walks
- (0.09 mi) Nuts Pub Crawl London
- (0.10 mi) Jarndyce Antiquarian Booksellers