Imperial War Museum London
Explore six floors of powerful exhibits revealing the human stories behind modern warfare at London’s Imperial War Museum.
Located on Lambeth Road in London, the Imperial War Museum offers a profound exploration of modern warfare and its impact on society. Open daily from 10am to 6pm with free admission, it houses six floors of exhibitions covering conflicts from World War I to the present day, including the Holocaust, espionage, and modern military history. Visitors encounter immersive galleries, historic artifacts, and powerful personal stories that illuminate the human experience of war.
A brief summary to Imperial War Museum
- Lambeth Rd, London, SE1 6HZ, GB
- +442074165000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least three hours to explore the extensive galleries thoroughly.
- The Holocaust Exhibition is intense and not recommended for children under 14.
- Book a free timed entry slot online during peak times to avoid queues.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum spans six floors with many exhibits.
- Check the daily schedule for free talks and special events to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Elephant & Castle or Lambeth North stations; both are about a 10-15 minute walk to the museum. Frequent services run daily, with single fares typically around £2.50 using contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near the museum on Lambeth Road, including routes 12, 35, and 148. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a single fare of £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at the museum entrance. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London. Fares start at approximately £10.
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Cycling
Cycle racks are available at the museum for visitors using bikes. London’s Santander Cycle Hire scheme offers convenient rental options nearby. Cycling routes along the South Bank provide a scenic approach.
Imperial War Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Imperial War Museum
A Living Chronicle of Modern Conflict
The Imperial War Museum London stands as a compelling testament to the history and human stories of warfare from the 20th century onwards. Founded during the First World War, the museum has evolved into a vast institution spread across six floors, each dedicated to different eras and aspects of conflict. From the trenches of World War I to the harrowing Holocaust galleries, and from the Blitz of World War II to contemporary conflicts like Iraq and Northern Ireland, the museum presents a comprehensive narrative of war’s impact on individuals and societies.Immersive Exhibits and Iconic Artifacts
Visitors are greeted by the striking Central Hall, where tanks, aircraft, and naval guns hang suspended, setting a dramatic tone. Highlights include a recreated World War I trench, the cockpit of a Lancaster bomber, and Nazi super weapons such as the V-1 flying bomb and V-2 rocket. The Holocaust Exhibition offers a solemn and powerful experience, featuring survivor testimonies and artifacts, while the Lord Ashcroft Gallery showcases an extensive collection of war medals. The museum’s objects—ranging from personal diaries and jewelry to military vehicles—bring history vividly to life.Engaging Storytelling and Educational Depth
The museum excels in storytelling, combining art, film, photography, and interactive displays to deepen understanding. Exhibitions like "Witnesses to War" and "Secret War" reveal the complexity of conflict through personal narratives and espionage history. Daily talks and events often feature firsthand accounts from veterans or historians, enriching the visitor experience. Although some galleries contain extensive reading material, this depth ensures a thorough grasp of the historical context and human cost of war.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
IWM London is fully accessible, with lifts and ramps facilitating wheelchair access to all floors. Lockers are available for luggage, and the museum offers large-print guides and audio formats for key galleries. The on-site café provides refreshments, and the museum shop offers books and memorabilia. While admission is free, donations are welcomed to support the museum’s mission. The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, except for a brief closure between December 24th and 26th.Location and Surroundings
Situated in Lambeth near Waterloo and Elephant & Castle stations, the museum is easily reachable by public transport. Its central London location places it near the South Bank, making it a convenient cultural stop. The surrounding area offers additional attractions and dining options, complementing a visit to the museum.Reflecting on War’s Legacy
The Imperial War Museum London is more than a collection of artifacts; it is a space for reflection on the profound effects of conflict on humanity. It challenges visitors to consider the causes, consequences, and ethical dimensions of war while honoring those who lived through it. This museum remains an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modern history through the lens of war and peace.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southbank House
0.9 km
Historic terracotta landmark in Lambeth, blending Victorian pottery heritage with modern creative workspaces.
South Bank Lion
1.0 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
County Hall
1.1 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
1.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proudly on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
1.2 km
London's premier riverside gateway to Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster's iconic landmarks.
30 The Queen's Walk
1.2 km
Discover the scenic beauty and vibrant life along the Queen's Walk, a must-see riverside promenade in London with stunning views and cultural attractions.
Big Ben
1.2 km
Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and its famous bell, Big Ben, a timeless symbol of London's heritage and British culture.
Westminster Hall
1.3 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Southbank Centre
1.3 km
Explore London's vibrant cultural hub at Southbank Centre, where art, music, and creativity come alive along the River Thames.
Jewel Tower
1.3 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a rare medieval treasure guarding centuries of royal secrets in the heart of Westminster.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
1.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Statue of George V
1.3 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Bridge St
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London at Bridge Street, where history meets modernity in a lively cultural hub.
The Battle of Britain Monument
1.3 km
Explore the Battle of Britain Monument in London, a powerful tribute to the heroism of RAF pilots during World War II, rich in history and artistic elegance.
St Margaret's Church
1.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St Margaret's Church, a hidden gem in the heart of London near Westminster Abbey.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Bicycle Tour Company
0.2 km
Explore London's landmarks and hidden streets on two wheels with expert local guides and quality bikes.
Tally Ho ~ London Bike Tours, Taxi Tours & Pub Tours
0.4 km
Explore London’s iconic sights and hidden treasures on classic British bicycles with expert guides and lively pub stops.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.6 km
Historic Westminster Bridge Road links London’s iconic landmarks with vibrant South Bank culture and excellent transport connections.
Archbishop's Park
0.6 km
Historic green space in central London with sports, playgrounds, gardens, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Ministry of Sound
0.7 km
Unleash your nightlife experience at Ministry of Sound in London, where world-class DJs and vibrant parties come alive in a legendary setting.
The Old Vic
0.7 km
Historic London theatre renowned for Shakespearean heritage and vibrant contemporary performances since 1818.
South of the River
0.7 km
A prestigious, fully fitted office building with prime views opposite the Houses of Parliament in London’s thriving South Bank business district.
Leake St
0.8 km
Dive into London’s vibrant Banksy Tunnel, where ever-changing legal graffiti transforms a forgotten underpass into a dynamic urban art sanctuary.
Mercato Metropolitano
0.8 km
London’s first sustainable community food market, where global street food, craft drinks, and live culture meet in a converted paper factory.
Lambeth Palace
0.8 km
Explore the rich history and serene gardens of Lambeth Palace, the iconic residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury in London.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.8 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
Garden Museum
0.8 km
Medieval church celebrating British gardens, from royal estates to allotments, with seasonal café.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.8 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.8 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
South Bank
0.9 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
Essential places to dine
Troia Southbank
0.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
OKAN South Bank
1.0 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
The Archduke
1.1 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.2 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
1.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
1.3 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Sapori
1.3 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Wahaca Southbank
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.4 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Osteria dell'Angolo
1.4 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Ma La Sichuan
1.5 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
George
1.6 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Giftree London
0.4 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Browns of London
0.9 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.1 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.2 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.2 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
1.3 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
1.3 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Sugar And Style
1.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
1.4 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.4 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.4 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Westminster Abbey Shop
1.4 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.5 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Borough Yards
1.6 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Gifts of London
1.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Primo Bar, London
0.8 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.9 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.9 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.0 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.0 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Le Champagne Bar
1.1 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.2 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.3 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Understudy
1.4 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Lyaness
1.4 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.4 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Old School Yard
1.5 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Westminster Arms
1.6 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Corsica Studios
0.7 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.4 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Union
1.4 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
1.4 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Lightbox London
1.6 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Fire Nightclub
1.6 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Proud Late
1.7 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Heaven
1.7 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
2.0 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Steel Yard
2.0 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Zoo Bar & Club
2.2 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
2.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Educational
- Reflective
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly