Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Explore 5,000 years of art and design at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, a free cultural landmark rich in creativity and history.
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London is the world's leading museum of art, design, and decorative arts, showcasing over 5,000 years of creativity. Located on Cromwell Road, it houses more than two million objects, with 60,000 on display, ranging from ancient textiles and sculptures to contemporary fashion and jewelry. Admission to the permanent collection is free, with special exhibitions requiring tickets. The museum combines stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and diverse galleries, making it a cultural treasure in the heart of London.
A brief summary to Victoria and Albert Museum
- Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 2RL, GB
- +442079422000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:45 pm
Local tips
- Admission to the permanent collection is free; book tickets in advance for special exhibitions to avoid disappointment.
- Visit on Friday evenings for extended hours and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Pick up a map or guidebook at the entrance to navigate the vast galleries effectively.
- Take time to relax in the John Madejski Garden, a tranquil oasis within the museum.
- Use the museum’s guided tours or self-guided trails to discover highlights and thematic collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or District line to South Kensington station, a 5-10 minute walk to the museum. The station offers step-free access and frequent services. Tickets cost £2.50–£6.00 depending on zones.
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Bus
Bus routes 14, 74, 414, and C1 stop near the museum on Cromwell Road. Journey times vary from 20 to 40 minutes from central London. Pay with an Oyster card or contactless payment; fares are around £1.75.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to the museum entrance. Travel times depend on traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25.
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Walking
From nearby landmarks like the Natural History Museum or Science Museum, a 10-15 minute walk along Exhibition Road offers a pleasant route with accessible pavements.
Victoria and Albert 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 Victoria and Albert Museum
A Vast Treasury of Art and Design
The Victoria and Albert Museum, commonly known as the V&A, stands as the world's largest museum dedicated to decorative arts and design. Its collection spans over 5,000 years and includes more than two million objects, of which around 60,000 are exhibited. The museum’s holdings range from ancient Middle Eastern carpets and Renaissance sculptures to modern fashion and jewelry, offering an unparalleled panorama of human creativity. Visitors can explore diverse galleries such as the South Asia collection, featuring exquisite textiles and artifacts, and the European galleries showcasing silver, stained glass, and tapestries.Architectural Grandeur and Serene Spaces
The museum itself is a masterpiece of architecture, with its grand entrance hall setting an opulent tone for the treasures inside. Notable features include the John Madejski Garden, a peaceful courtyard perfect for reflection and rest during your visit. The Cast Courts display impressive full-scale plaster casts of architectural wonders, highlighting the museum’s ambition and scale. The building’s intricate arches and historical design elements create a captivating atmosphere that complements the rich collections.Engaging Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Admission to the permanent collections is free, encouraging visitors to return multiple times to absorb the vast offerings. Special exhibitions, such as those featuring Cartier or contemporary artists, require advance booking and a ticket purchase. The V&A offers guided tours, self-guided trails, and family-friendly activities, including interactive displays and children’s trails. The museum is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, lifts, and accessible toilets, ensuring an inclusive environment for all visitors.Cultural Significance and Research Excellence
Beyond its public galleries, the V&A is a world-class research institution, maintaining extensive study rooms and reference collections. It is committed to cultural heritage and innovation, reflected in its exhibitions and acquisitions. The museum also embraces anti-racism in its curation and programming, fostering a diverse and inclusive cultural dialogue. Its collections not only celebrate global artistic achievements but also explore historical connections such as those between Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
The museum features several cafes, including the Main Cafe and Patisserie, offering a range of food and drink options. Visitors can enjoy packed lunches in designated areas such as the Garden and Exhibition Road Courtyard. Cloakrooms and lockers are available for convenience. The museum shop offers a curated selection of gifts, books, and design items. Seasonal closures affect some galleries and the Garden Cafe, so checking current opening times is advised.Location and Opening Hours
Situated on Cromwell Road in London’s South Kensington area, the V&A is open daily from 10:00 to 17:45, with extended hours until 22:00 on Fridays. The museum’s central location and excellent public transport links make it easily accessible. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit around special exhibitions and guided tours to maximize their experience in this cultural landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Empire House
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
37 Thurloe St
0.3 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
1.1 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.1 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
The Old Police House
1.4 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Kensington War Memorial
1.4 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Speke Monument
1.5 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Cheyne Walk
1.5 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.5 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.6 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.6 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Statue of Achilles
1.6 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
Wellington Arch
1.6 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thin House
0.3 km
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
Natural History Museum
0.3 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
Science Museum
0.3 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
Queen's Tower
0.4 km
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Hole in the Wall
0.4 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
Sussex Mansions
0.5 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
Barts
0.6 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
St Augustine's Church
0.6 km
Discover the striking Gothic Revival beauty and rich Anglo-Catholic heritage of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a William Butterfield masterpiece.
Imperial Cinema
0.6 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
HTB Onslow Square
0.6 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
Royal Albert Hall
0.6 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Knightsbridge
0.6 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Harrods
0.7 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
St Simon Zelotes
0.7 km
Discover the serene blend of evangelical faith and historic Anglican tradition at St Simon Zelotes in the heart of Chelsea, London.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
Essential places to dine
Town House Kensington
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Rabbit
1.0 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.0 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The Jam
1.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Grato
1.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.3 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Grenadier
1.3 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Zuaya London
1.3 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Dishoom Kensington
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.5 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Il Portico
1.9 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
V&A Shop
0.1 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Science Museum Shop
0.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.3 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Urban Outfitters
1.4 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Jigsaw
1.4 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.4 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.4 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Good
1.6 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.7 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.8 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.8 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
the Design Museum Shop
2.0 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
2.0 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Thomas Goode & Co
2.0 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
2.0 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K Bar
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Bar 190
0.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
0.8 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Builders Arms
1.2 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Stables Bar
1.2 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
1.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.3 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.4 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.5 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Swan, Hyde Park
1.7 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.9 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.9 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
2.0 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dolce Night Club , London
0.4 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
0.6 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
B London
0.6 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
2.1 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.5 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Carwash Nightclub
2.7 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Ricco London
2.7 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Scotch of St James
2.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
2.8 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Globe
3.0 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
3.1 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
3.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
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
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
