The British Museum, London
Explore two million years of human history and culture at London’s iconic British Museum, home to world-famous treasures and stunning architecture.
The British Museum in London is a world-renowned cultural institution housing over 8 million objects spanning two million years of human history. Located on Great Russell Street in Bloomsbury, it features iconic artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies. The museum's magnificent neoclassical building includes the stunning Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, the largest covered square in Europe. Entry is free, with timed tickets recommended for access.
A brief summary to The British Museum
- Great Russell St, London, WC1B 3DG, GB
- +442073238299
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book a timed entry ticket in advance to guarantee access, especially for popular exhibitions.
- Plan your visit by prioritizing key highlights like the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon sculptures to manage time efficiently.
- Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum covers a large area with extensive galleries to explore.
- Take advantage of free guided tours and digital resources offered by the museum to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Tube to Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square, or Goodge Street stations, all within an 8-minute walk of the museum. Travel times vary by starting point but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Tube fares start at approximately £2.50 with contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Great Russell Street area, including route 14 which stops directly outside the museum. Bus journeys within central London usually take 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Single fares cost around £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, or Fitzrovia, walking to the British Museum is a pleasant option, taking 10 to 20 minutes on flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
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Cycling
Santander Cycles docking stations are located within two minutes’ walk of the museum, with cycle racks available at the main entrance. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, especially during off-peak hours.
The British 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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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The British Museum
A Monument to Human History and Culture
The British Museum, established in 1753, stands as one of the world's greatest repositories of human heritage. Its vast collection of over 8 million objects spans more than two million years, representing cultures from every inhabited continent. From ancient Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon sculptures and artifacts from Asia, Africa, and the Americas, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through civilization’s milestones.Architectural Grandeur and the Great Court
Housed in a grand neoclassical building designed initially by Sir Robert Smirke, the museum’s façade on Great Russell Street features 43 Ionic columns inspired by ancient Greek temples. The interior centerpiece is the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, a spectacular glass and steel-covered square opened in 2000. This architectural marvel, designed by Foster and Partners, covers the former British Library Reading Room, now a striking focal point beneath 1,656 uniquely shaped glass panes.Collections and Highlights
The museum’s galleries are arranged across more than 60 rooms, showcasing treasures such as the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphs, and the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon. Visitors can explore ancient civilizations through sculptures, ceramics, coins, manuscripts, and textiles. The Round Reading Room, once the second largest dome in the world, reopened to the public in 2024, adding to the museum’s historic allure.A Hub of Learning and Public Engagement
As the world’s first national public museum, the British Museum has long been a center for scholarship and education. It hosts regular exhibitions and events that delve into global histories and contemporary themes. Its free admission policy ensures accessibility, though timed tickets are advised to manage visitor flow. The museum is also active in digital outreach, offering extensive online resources and virtual tours.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in the academic and leafy district of Bloomsbury, the museum is surrounded by literary and cultural landmarks. Despite its central London location, the area retains a quiet, residential charm. Nearby Tube stations and bus routes provide easy access, and the vicinity offers numerous cafes, shops, and parks for visitors to enjoy before or after their museum experience.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Visitors typically spend between two to six hours exploring the museum, depending on their interests. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with extended hours until 20:30 on Fridays. Facilities include restrooms, cafes, seating areas, and information boards. The British Museum welcomes diverse audiences, including families, solo travelers, and scholars, with accessibility features and a commitment to inclusivity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Bedford Square Gardens
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St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
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Bloomsbury Square Garden
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Russell Sq
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A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
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Hasdan
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Discover Hasdan, a vibrant cultural attraction nestled in the heart of London’s dynamic Tottenham Court Road district.
1 Queen Square
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Dominion Theatre
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Queen Square
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Torrington Square
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Princess Louise
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Essential places to dine
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The Ninth
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Circus
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Noble Rot Soho
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Margot
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Sussex Bar & Restaurant
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La Bodega Negra Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Primark
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Oxford Street Gift Shop
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Goldsmith Vintage
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Radha's Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Zoo Bar & Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
