Imperial War Museum London
Explore six floors of powerful exhibitions revealing the human stories behind modern conflicts at London’s Imperial War Museum.
Located on Lambeth Road in London, the Imperial War Museum offers a profound exploration of modern conflict through six floors of immersive exhibitions. Visitors encounter powerful displays ranging from World War I trenches and the Blitz of World War II to the Holocaust and contemporary warfare, featuring iconic artifacts like a Supermarine Spitfire and a Russian T-34 tank. Open daily from 10am to 6pm with free entry, this museum combines history, art, and personal stories to 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
- Allocate at least three hours to fully explore the museum’s extensive galleries and exhibits.
- Visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience.
- Use lockers available on-site to store bags, as large luggage is not permitted inside.
- Check the schedule for daily talks and temporary exhibitions to enrich your visit.
- The museum is fully accessible with lifts and facilities for visitors with limited mobility.
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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London Underground
Take the Northern Line to Lambeth North station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the museum. The station is wheelchair accessible, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Tickets cost £2.50-£6.00 depending on zones and time.
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Bus
Bus routes 59, 148, and 521 stop near Lambeth Road, serving the museum area. Journey times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Standard bus fares apply, around £1.75 per ride with contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares range from £10 to £20. Note that parking near the museum is very limited and expensive.
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Cycling
Cyclists can use dedicated cycle lanes and park at the museum’s cycle racks. It’s a convenient and eco-friendly option, especially from nearby areas such as South Bank or Waterloo.
Imperial War Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Imperial War Museum
A Living Chronicle of Modern Warfare
The Imperial War Museum London stands as a monumental tribute to the experiences of individuals caught in the turmoil of 20th and 21st-century conflicts. Founded during the First World War, the museum’s mission is to give voice to the extraordinary stories of ordinary people affected by war. Its six floors house over 10 million objects, from military vehicles and aircraft to personal keepsakes, documents, and artworks, all curated to provide a comprehensive narrative of warfare’s impact on societies and individuals.Immersive Exhibitions and Iconic Artifacts
Visitors begin their journey on the ground floor with the First World War Galleries, featuring a striking recreation of a WWI trench that evokes the harsh realities of frontline combat. The atrium, soaring five stories high, showcases some of the museum’s most dramatic exhibits, including a V-2 rocket, a Harrier jump jet, and a Russian T-34 tank. The second floor delves into the Blitz and the Second World War, with evocative displays of London under bombardment and the Battle of Britain, highlighted by the iconic Spitfire fighter suspended overhead.Holocaust and Contemporary Conflict Galleries
The museum’s Holocaust Galleries offer a sobering and deeply emotional experience, presenting the harrowing history of genocide through personal testimonies and artifacts. Modern conflicts such as those in Iraq, Northern Ireland, and Bosnia are also explored, demonstrating the ongoing relevance of war’s human cost. The Blavatnik Art, Film and Photography Galleries add a creative dimension, portraying war through powerful visual media.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Open daily from 10am to 6pm with free admission, the Imperial War Museum encourages visitors to spend at least three hours to fully appreciate its extensive collections. The museum is fully accessible, with lifts to all floors and facilities for visitors with limited mobility. Lockers are available for luggage storage, and a café on the ground floor offers refreshments. The museum also hosts regular talks and temporary exhibitions, enriching the visitor experience.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Housed in a historic building on Lambeth Road, the museum’s architecture complements its role as a cultural landmark. The grand atrium and open galleries create a contemplative space that balances the gravity of its subject matter with engaging design. Outdoor exhibits, including large artillery pieces and a segment of the Berlin Wall, extend the museum’s narrative into the surrounding environment.Educational and Reflective Impact
Beyond its role as a repository of artifacts, the Imperial War Museum London serves as a place of education, reflection, and remembrance. It challenges visitors to consider the complexities of conflict and the resilience of those affected. Through personal stories, interactive displays, and carefully curated collections, the museum fosters a deeper understanding of war’s enduring influence on humanity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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