The British Museum, London
Explore over two million years of human history and culture beneath the iconic Greek Revival façade and stunning Great Court of the British Museum.
The British Museum in London is a world-renowned public museum dedicated to human history, art, and culture, located on Great Russell Street in Bloomsbury. It houses over 8 million objects spanning more than two million years, including iconic artefacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. The museum’s grand Greek Revival façade and the spectacular Queen Elizabeth II Great Court highlight its architectural significance. Admission is free, with timed entry tickets recommended.
A brief summary to The British Museum
- Great Russell St, London, WC1B 3DG, GB
- +442073238299
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
-
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 online in advance to avoid long waits and guarantee access, especially for special exhibitions.
- Visit on a weekday morning or late Friday evening for a quieter experience and extended opening hours.
- Don’t miss the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, an architectural marvel with its glass roof and central Reading Room.
- Use nearby Tube stations such as Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, or Goodge Street for easy access.
- Explore beyond the highlights to discover lesser-known collections from Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holborn station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, use Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, or Goodge Street stations, all within 8-10 minutes walking distance. Tube fares range from £2.40 to £5.00 depending on zones and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near the museum, including route 14 which stops directly outside on Great Russell Street. Bus travel times vary by traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Single fares cost £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Cycling
Santander Cycles docking stations are located within two minutes’ walk of the museum, with cycle racks available at the main entrance on Great Russell Street. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, though be mindful of London traffic.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Bloomsbury or Covent Garden, walking to the museum is pleasant and accessible, taking 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved routes through central London’s cultural district.
The British Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about The British Museum
A Monument to Global Human History
The British Museum stands as one of the most comprehensive repositories of human culture and history, with a collection that spans over two million years and includes more than eight million objects. Founded in 1753, it was the world’s first public museum of its kind, aiming to showcase the story of humanity through artefacts from ancient civilizations to modern cultures. Its galleries cover a vast range of themes and regions, from Egyptian mummies and Assyrian winged bulls to Roman Britain and Asian art.Architectural Grandeur and the Great Court
The museum’s imposing Greek Revival façade along Great Russell Street is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, featuring 44 Ionic columns inspired by the Temple of Athena Polias at Priene. The pediment above the main entrance depicts allegorical figures symbolizing the progress of civilization. At the heart of the museum lies the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, a stunning glass-roofed square designed by Foster and Partners, which is the largest covered square in Europe. This central space surrounds the iconic circular Reading Room, once home to the British Library’s collection.World-Famous Treasures and Highlights
Among the museum’s most celebrated objects are the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphs; the Parthenon sculptures, remarkable relics of ancient Greece; and the bust of Ramesses the Great. Visitors can also admire the Sophilos Vase, the Crouching Venus, and the basalt statue Hoa Hakananai'a from Easter Island. The museum’s vast permanent collection is complemented by temporary exhibitions exploring diverse cultures and histories.A Cultural Hub in Bloomsbury
Situated in the academic and leafy Bloomsbury district of central London, the British Museum is surrounded by other cultural landmarks and leafy squares. Despite its popularity, the area retains a quiet, scholarly atmosphere. The museum is easily accessible via multiple London Underground stations and bus routes, with cycle racks available for cyclists. Its location makes it a convenient and enriching stop for visitors exploring London’s cultural heart.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The British Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with extended hours on Fridays until 8:30pm. Entry to the permanent collection is free, although timed tickets are recommended to guarantee access, especially during busy periods. Special exhibitions may require a fee. Facilities include accessible entrances, restrooms, cafés, and information boards. The museum’s vast space allows for immersive exploration, whether you spend a couple of hours or a full day delving into human history.Legacy and Continuing Influence
As a pioneering institution, the British Museum continues to evolve, balancing its role as a guardian of global heritage with modern curatorial practices. Its collections and exhibitions foster understanding across cultures and time periods, making it a vital resource for scholars and the public alike. The museum’s architecture and public spaces also serve as a testament to the enduring value placed on knowledge and cultural exchange in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Sicilian Avenue
0.4 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Denmark St
0.5 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.5 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Historic Seven Dials
0.6 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Smallest Street in London
0.7 km
Discover Emerald Court, London's famously narrow 26-inch alley in Bloomsbury, a hidden historic gem weaving through Georgian and modern London.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.7 km
Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
Mercer Walk
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting Mercer Walk in London, a charming alley brimming with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artistic flair that captures the city's spirit.
Statue of Thomas Coram
0.7 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Middlesex House
0.8 km
Experience the blend of modern business and historical charm at Middlesex House in London, a vibrant hub for tourists and professionals alike.
Bow St
0.8 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.8 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Slingsby Place
0.8 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Royal Opera House
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.8 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
0.2 km
Discover the serene elegance and rich history of Bedford Square & Montague Place, London's finest Georgian architectural oasis in Bloomsbury.
Bedford Square Gardens
0.2 km
Discover Bedford Square Gardens, London’s finest Georgian square with elegant architecture and a tranquil, historic private garden.
St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
0.3 km
Discover St George’s Church, Bloomsbury, Hawksmoor’s last English Baroque masterpiece crowned by its iconic stepped spire and rich historical legacy.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.3 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Russell Sq
0.3 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
0.4 km
Experience iconic West End theatre in a historic, steel-framed London venue renowned for its rich heritage and outstanding performances.
Hasdan
0.4 km
Discover Hasdan, a vibrant cultural attraction nestled in the heart of London’s dynamic Tottenham Court Road district.
1 Queen Square
0.4 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden square renowned for medical heritage, tranquil gardens, and Georgian architecture.
Dominion Theatre
0.4 km
Step into the spotlight at Dominion Theatre, London’s grand West End venue hosting blockbuster musicals like The Devil Wears Prada in a stunning art deco setting.
Queen Square
0.4 km
A historic Bloomsbury square blending Georgian charm, royal ties, and a world-renowned medical heritage in tranquil garden surroundings.
Torrington Square
0.4 km
A tranquil university-owned garden square in Bloomsbury blending historic heritage with academic vibrancy and green respite.
Princess Louise
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
12 Bar Club
0.5 km
Historic London music venue famed for intimate gigs, antifolk festivals, and a vibrant independent spirit on legendary Denmark Street.
St Giles in the Fields
0.5 km
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.
1 Soho Place
0.5 km
Contemporary business park in the heart of Soho, blending modern workspaces with London's vibrant cultural scene.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
The Ninth
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Circus
0.6 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Noble Rot Soho
0.6 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.6 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Margot
0.6 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.7 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.7 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Quo Vadis
0.7 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Hoppers Soho
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Inamo
0.8 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Sarastro
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Gauthier Soho
0.8 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That of London
0.2 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Primark
0.4 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.5 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.5 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Pop Boutique
0.6 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Radha's Boutique
0.6 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
Good
0.6 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.6 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Souvenir Shop
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Persephone books
0.6 km
Discover the hidden treasures of 20th-century women’s literature at Persephone Books, a Bloomsbury gem celebrating forgotten female voices.
Goodge Place Market
0.7 km
A vibrant street food market in the heart of Fitzrovia, offering diverse flavors and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from central London.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.7 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.7 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coral Room
0.3 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.4 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
The Escapologist Bar
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.6 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.6 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.7 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Swift Soho
0.7 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
0.7 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
Bar Termini
0.7 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
The Nellie Dean
0.7 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
The Spice Of Life
0.7 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.7 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Punch Room
0.7 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
0.7 km
Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.6 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
La Capannina Club
0.7 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
101 Nightclub London
0.8 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
0.8 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
0.8 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.9 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Box Soho
0.9 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.9 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sunset night club
0.9 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.0 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classic
- Historic
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
- Myth & Legends
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
