The British Museum: A Global Treasury of Human History
Explore two million years of human history under one iconic roof in the heart of London’s Bloomsbury district.
Situated on Great Russell Street in London’s Bloomsbury district, the British Museum is the world’s first public national museum, housing over eight million objects that chronicle human history, art, and culture from ancient times to the present. Its iconic Greek Revival façade and the stunning glass-roofed Great Court make it a landmark of architectural and cultural significance. Admission is free, offering access to a vast collection including the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies.
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
- Plan your visit early in the day or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid peak crowds.
- Entry to permanent galleries is free, but book timed tickets online in advance to guarantee access.
- Use nearby Tube stations Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, or Goodge Street for convenient access.
- Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to explore key exhibits like the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies.
- Take time to admire the Great Court and the museum’s neoclassical architecture before entering the galleries.
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 Central or Piccadilly lines to Holborn station, a 5 to 10-minute walk to the museum. Frequent trains run throughout the day, and a single journey costs £2.40–£4.90 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including route 14, stop near Great Russell Street. Buses run regularly with fares around £1.75 per journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Cycling
Santander Cycles docking stations are located within two minutes’ walk, and bike racks are available at the main entrance. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option in central London.
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Walking
From central London areas like Covent Garden or Fitzrovia, walking to the British Museum takes 15 to 25 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The British Museum
An Unparalleled Repository of Human Civilization
The British Museum stands as a monumental institution dedicated to the story of human culture, with a collection exceeding eight million objects spanning more than two million years. Established in 1753, it was the first public national museum in the world, designed to make knowledge accessible to all. Its galleries showcase artifacts from every inhabited continent, including famous treasures like the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphs, the Parthenon sculptures from ancient Greece, and Egyptian mummies that reveal millennia-old funerary traditions.Architectural Grandeur and the Great Court
The museum’s building itself is a masterpiece of neoclassical design, featuring a Greek Revival façade with 44 Ionic columns inspired by the temple of Athena Polias at Priene. The pediment above the main entrance illustrates "The Progress of Civilisation" through allegorical sculptures. At its heart lies the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, a vast covered square crowned by a spectacular glass and steel roof designed by Foster and Partners. This architectural marvel, the largest covered square in Europe, envelops the historic Reading Room, once the intellectual hub of the British Library.A Living Institution with Dynamic Exhibitions
Beyond its permanent collection, the British Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and events that explore diverse cultures, histories, and contemporary themes. These exhibitions often delve into specific regions, peoples, or historical periods, providing visitors with fresh perspectives and deeper insights. The museum remains a vibrant cultural center, continuously evolving while preserving its mission to educate and inspire.Location and Visitor Experience
Nestled in the academic and leafy Bloomsbury area, the museum is easily accessible via several London Underground stations including Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, and Goodge Street. Visitors can enjoy nearby amenities such as bike racks and multiple dining options. Entry to the permanent galleries is free, though some special exhibitions may require tickets. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Fridays until 8:30 pm.Iconic Artifacts and Cultural Significance
Among the British Museum’s most renowned artifacts are the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures (also known as the Elgin Marbles), the bust of Ramesses the Great, and the Hoa Hakananai'a moai statue from Easter Island. These objects are not only artistic masterpieces but also serve as gateways to understanding ancient civilizations and their legacies. The museum’s comprehensive collection provides a unique opportunity to explore global cultural heritage under one roof.Commitment to Accessibility and Education
The British Museum is committed to making its collections accessible to a broad audience, offering educational programs, guided tours, and digital resources. Its free admission policy reflects its founding principle of public access to knowledge. The museum also emphasizes sustainability and responsible stewardship of its vast collections, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from its treasures.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
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Explore the serene beauty of Bedford Square & Montague Place, a historic oasis in the heart of London with Georgian architecture and vibrant local culture.
Hasdan
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Discover the vibrant heart of London at Hasdan, where shopping, culture, and history meet on Tottenham Court Road.
1 Queen Square
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Explore the enchanting Queen Square in London, where history meets tranquility in a picturesque urban oasis.
190 High Holborn
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Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 190 High Holborn, a vital part of London's rich heritage.
Sicilian Avenue
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Explore Sicilian Avenue, a historic gem in London featuring stunning architecture, vibrant shops, and a rich cultural atmosphere waiting to be discovered.
1 Soho Place
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Explore 1 Soho Place: A vibrant business park in London's Soho, surrounded by eclectic eateries, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Denmark St
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Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll was born, preserved beneath 17th-century facades.
covent Garden ,
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Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Discover the historic heart of British music at Denmark Street’s Tin Pan Alley and the iconic La Giaconda Cafe, a legendary hub for musicians and songwriters.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
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Explore Neal's Yard, London's vibrant historical courtyard, filled with colorful shops, organic cafés, and wellness centers for a unique city experience.
Goodge St
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Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Soho Square Gardens
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Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
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Discover the vibrant O Hello Sunshine sculpture in London, a historical landmark that embodies creativity and community spirit amidst the city's artistic landscape.
Historic Seven Dials
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Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Historic Seven Dials, London's gem where seven streets meet and culture thrives.
Tavistock Square
0.6 km
Explore Tavistock Square, a beautiful garden and historical landmark in London, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bedford Square Gardens
0.2 km
Experience the lush beauty and historical charm of Bedford Square Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of London perfect for relaxation and exploration.
St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St George's Church, a historic Anglican church in London's Bloomsbury.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.3 km
Discover the serene Bloomsbury Square Garden, a historical park in London perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst vibrant surroundings.
Russell Sq
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Experience the historic charm and tranquility of Russell Square, a serene garden oasis in the heart of London, surrounded by culture and elegance.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
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Historic and innovative West End theatre offering exceptional musicals and performances in a landmark steel-framed venue.
Dominion Theatre
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Discover the Dominion Theatre, a historic London venue showcasing spectacular performances and stunning Art Deco architecture for an unforgettable experience.
Queen Square
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Discover the serene beauty of Queen Square in London, a historic gem ideal for relaxation and cultural exploration amidst the city's vibrant life.
Torrington Square
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A serene academic garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with university life and cultural heritage.
Princess Louise
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Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
12 Bar Club
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Explore the legendary 12 Bar Club in London, a cornerstone of the city's vibrant live music scene with a rich history of unforgettable performances.
St Giles in the Fields
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Explore St Giles in the Fields, a stunning Anglican church in London, rich in history and architectural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat in the city.
Priscilla The Party
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Join the celebration at 'Priscilla The Party' in London, a vibrant theater experience that combines dazzling performances and a joyful atmosphere.
The Phoenix Garden
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Discover the serene beauty of The Phoenix Garden, a lush community oasis in the heart of London, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil retreats.
Gillian Lynne Theatre
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Experience the magic of live theatre at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, where world-class performances come to life in the heart of London.
Neal's Yard
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Explore Neal's Yard in London, a vibrant courtyard filled with colorful buildings, unique shops, and delightful cafes, perfect for a relaxing escape.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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The Ninth
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Michelin-starred modern French and Mediterranean dining in Fitzrovia, blending relaxed elegance with exquisite shared plates and exceptional value.
Circus
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Pan-Asian dinner theatre where acrobats, fire eaters, and gourmet cuisine collide in Covent Garden.
Noble Rot Soho
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Discover Noble Rot Soho: A haven for modern European cuisine lovers in London's bustling Soho district with an exceptional wine selection.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Flesh & Buns Covent Garden – where delicious flavors meet vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
Margot
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Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Margot, where tradition meets modern elegance in the heart of London.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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London's premier steakhouse in a historic Seven Dials brewery, serving dry-aged beef and craft cocktails in moody mahogany elegance.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
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La Bodega Negra Restaurant
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Inamo Covent Garden
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Quo Vadis
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Hoppers Soho
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Inamo
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Sarastro
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Gauthier Soho
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That of London
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Primark
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Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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Discover Forbidden Planet London Megastore - your ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and pop culture treasures in the heart of London.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
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London souvenirs and quirky gifts in the heart of Oxford Street's bustling retail district.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
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Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Covent Garden at Blackout II, London’s premier vintage clothing emporium.
Goldsmith Vintage
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Explore Goldsmith Vintage: London's premier destination for unique, curated vintage clothing and accessories that celebrate timeless fashion.
Pop Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Pop Boutique in London for a unique vintage shopping experience filled with timeless fashion treasures and eclectic styles.
Radha's Boutique
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Good
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Rokit Covent Garden
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Souvenir Shop
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Urban Outfitters
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The Brunswick Centre
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Goodge Place Market
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Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coral Room
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Fitz's Russell Sq.
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The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
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The Escapologist Bar
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The Little Scarlet Door
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Thirst Bar Soho
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Simmons Bar | Soho
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Swift Soho
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Bar Termini
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Henson's Bar and Social
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Punch Room
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Prelude by Oriole
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A sophisticated Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American-inspired cuisine, and live jazz in a stylish, intimate setting.
The Black Book
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Bar Soho
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Soho, a premier cocktail bar in the heart of London, known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Oriole
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
