Published on: 2nd February 2023
London isn’t just a city known for its wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also a place full of history and art. Every corner you turn, you’ll be able to find a fascinating museum to explore. However, with so many options, finding the best museums in London to check out can be hard.
Whether you want to discover unique art or artefacts, London offers a diverse range of options to explore. From free-entry venues to those with admission fees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And, if you prefer to secure your entry in advance and gain exclusive discounts and guided tours, you can book your space at Lovetovisit.
Now, lets get into our list of the ten best museums in London.
British Museum
This wouldn’t be a comprehensive guide for London museums if we didn’t include Britain’s largest museum. The British Museum takes you through the history of almost every country in the world, including Ancient Egypt, Greece, Asia, and Africa. No matter your interest, you’ll find a wide range of interesting artefacts to examine and gain insights about.
Since the British Museum has gained a big name for itself, it can become a bit crowded, so the best time is to come in the morning on the weekday and check out one of the free 30-minute taster talks.
Natural History Museum
Almost everyone has heard of the Natural History Museum in London, and that’s because it has so much to offer for no fee at all. This free museum is fantastic for families, and you’re wowed from the moment you walk in. The giant dinosaur fossil on display as you enter is a massive crowd-pleaser and only gets better from there.
Whether you are interested in science, earthquakes, or extinct species, you will undoubtedly find something that will blow your mind. Make sure you clear your schedule because a journey around the Natural History Museum can become a whole day’s activity.
The V&A
If you find yourself in South Kensington when you’re visiting London, you must check out the Victoria and Albert Museum (Also known as the V&A). It is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, providing the public with displays of the oldest and latest art, design, fashion, and textile projects.
There are a whopping 2.3 million objects to view, and you can see them all for no cost at all. There is no entry fee, and you can spend the whole day going around, looking at the amazing art, and even taking a break to purchase a slice of delicious cake while sitting in the sunny Italianate courtyard.
National Gallery
You can’t really visit London without going to Trafalgar Square, so why not check out the National Gallery while you’re there? Perfect for art lovers, this gallery has a collection of over 2,300 paintings to feel inspired by dating back as far as the 13th century.
You can see some of the most renowned paintings, such as Van Gogh’s Sunflowers or Constable’s The Hay Wain. While it may get busy, it is an extremely large building, so you never feel suffocated. There are also shows you may have to book in advance and also for an additional cost.
Science Museum
Science really is a truly fascinating subject, and you can marvel at everything it has to offer in London’s Science Museum. There are too many exhibits to list, each with its own unique edge that will have your jaw dropping when you see them. You will have to make your way through the seven floors, but there will be a new surprise around each corner.
The Science Museum is a perfect place for children and adults alike. Some of the exhibits are hands-on, which means you can get involved in the action, or you can simply sit back and look at other displays, such as the real-life Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet.
Tate Modern
If you simply can’t get enough of the art in London, then you should make your way to the spectacular Tate Modern Museum. It is based on the side of the River Thames and displays both modern and contemporary art by some of the highest-rated artists around, such as Hockney and Warhol.
Each display will offer something completely different, and you don’t have to pay anything to check out the permanent collection. If you want to take a break from admiring the art, you can sit back and relax at the members’ bar (if you can get in) while taking in the view of the London skyline.
Imperial War Museum
Calling all of those who are fascinated by the history of World War I. By making your way to the Imperial War Museum, you will be fascinated by the peaceful displays of warfare and artefacts about some of the biggest battles for the country, starting from World War I up until today.
There are over 400 objects to check out, each offering unique insights into the war and how people lived during these times. It is truly a humbling experience as you relate to the suffering of soldiers and civilians during wartime.
London Transport Museum
We know that many people are fascinated with trains and other forms of transport. However, even if it isn’t something you’re normally interested in, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by the displays at the London Transport Museum based in Covent Garden.
You will be enthralled by the history of all of London’s public transport, showing you how they were designed and built and what they have turned into today. From checking out some of the earliest buses and trains to a horse-drawn carriage you can sit in with your kids, it is the perfect place to go if you want to kill an hour.
National Maritime Museum
We’ve mentioned all things general history, art, imperial, and transport, but what about boats and ships? If this is something that interests you, then you’ll no doubt have a fantastic time visiting the National Maritime Museum, which is dedicated to all things that float on the seven seas.
You’ll find the National Maritime Museum as part of the Royal Museums in Greenwich, and it hosts an amazing 2.5 million historical items for you to check out. After a brief walkaround, you’ll have a much better understanding of the nautical history of Britain.
Design Museum
The design of the Design Museum is a sight to behold itself, forgetting about the wide range of exhibits it has on display. Everything is much more minimalist than the other art museums on this list, but it gives you a different perspective on the bright colours and unique materials that can be used for exhibitions.
The Design Museum focuses on 20th and 21st-century contemporary art, with a wide selection of over 1,000 objects to check out. It will definitely spark some discussions among your group, and you’ll leave feeling much more enriched than before.
Take a step back in time, and visit one of London’s many museums on your next trip. With bundles of history, and so much to explore you’re bound to find something everyone can enjoy. Not sure where to begin? Take a look at Lovetovisit, and start planning your trip today.
