The British Museum is one of the most famous and prestigious cultural institutions in the world, located in the heart of London. The museum is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, and offers visitors a unique and unforgettable insight into the diversity and complexity of human history and culture.
The museum was founded in 1753, and has since grown to become one of the largest and most significant museums in the world. The museum is home to over 8 million objects, including works of art, manuscripts, and other cultural artifacts from around the world.
One of the most popular exhibits at the British Museum is the Egyptian collection, which is one of the largest and most important collections of Egyptian art and artifacts in the world. The collection includes a range of different elements, including mummies, sculptures, and other works of art, as well as a range of different interactive exhibits and displays that explore the cultural and historical significance of ancient Egypt.
Another popular exhibit at the British Museum is the Greek and Roman collection, which includes a range of different works of art and artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome. The collection includes a range of different elements, including sculptures, ceramics, and other works of art, as well as a range of different interactive exhibits and displays that explore the cultural and historical significance of ancient Greece and Rome.
The museum is also home to a range of different exhibits and displays that explore different cultures and periods in human history, including the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The exhibits are designed to showcase the diversity and complexity of human culture, and offer a fascinating and immersive insight into the richness and variety of human experience.
The British Museum is also committed to education and outreach, and has implemented a range of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting the study and appreciation of art and history. The museum offers a range of educational activities and workshops, aimed at engaging and inspiring young people from all backgrounds.
One of the most popular programs at the British Museum is the Young Friends program, which is a series of courses and workshops designed for young people aged 8-15 who are interested in art and history. The program includes a range of different elements, including art history, museum studies, and public speaking, and offers participants a unique and immersive experience of life in the world of art and culture.
The museum is also home to a range of different facilities and services, including a gift shop and a range of different restaurants and cafes. The museum also offers a range of different public programs and events, including lectures, discussions, and cultural performances.
One of the most popular events at the British Museum is the annual Christmas Market, which takes place every December and features a range of different activities and celebrations. The event is a popular and much-loved tradition in London, and attracts visitors from all over the city and beyond.
In addition to its impressive exhibits and displays, the British Museum is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and has implemented a range of initiatives and programs designed to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. The museum has implemented a range of energy-saving measures, including the installation of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and has implemented a range of recycling and waste management programs.
In conclusion, the British Museum is one of the most important and prestigious cultural institutions in London, with a rich and fascinating history that spans over 250 years. The museum is a testament to the diversity and complexity of human history and culture, and is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an enjoyable and informative day out, the British Museum is the perfect destination for you.
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FAQ's
Is admission free?
Yes, entry to the Museum to view the permanent collection is free. All visitors (except Members) will need to book a timed slot in advance(Opens in new window) to guarantee entry to the Museum. Walk-up entry won't be possible from 9–24 April, unless you're a Member. The safety and security of our staff and visitors is very important to us. Face coverings are recommended for the protection of yourself and others, unless you’re exempt. Please be considerate of people and exercise social distancing where you can – especially in smaller spaces. Hand sanitiser stations can be found throughout the Museum and we recommend washing or sanitising your hands regularly. See the Visit page for more information. We also have special exhibitions and events, both free and paid, which require booking in advance. For the latest updates about booking tickets and what's happening at the Museum, sign up to our newsletter(Opens in new window).
How do I book tickets?
All tickets for the permanent collection can be booked online in advance(Opens in new window). Walk-up entry won't be possible from 9–24 April, unless you're a Member. Find out more on our Visit page. Please see our Exhibitions and events page to see what's on and to book tickets. If you want to visit the permanent collection before your exhibition visit, you will need to book a separate ticket(Opens in new window). You can book tickets for up to eight people. For access assistance with your booking, please see our Accessibility page. For the latest updates about booking tickets and what's happening at the Museum, sign up to our newsletter(Opens in new window).
When is the Museum open?
The Museum is open daily, 10.00–17.00 (last entry at 16.00). On Fridays the Museum is open until 20.30 (last entry at 19.30). Find out about upcoming late opening on Fridays. Please note that galleries start closing up to 10 minutes before the stated closing time. See full opening hours. Special exhibitions will be open Fridays until 20.30 (last entry at 19.30). The Museum is closed on 24, 25 and 26 December.
What can I bring?
All bags, rucksacks, packages and personal items may be searched before entry so we suggest allowing extra time for your visit. Wheeled cases, sports equipment and large items of luggage are not allowed on the premises. See the Visit page for a full list of restrictions. Pushchairs are welcome but will need to be kept with you for the duration of your visit. The new visitor and Member cloakroom is located near the Main entrance on Great Russell Street. See the Visit page for more information. Please don't leave your bags unattended at any point during your visit. You're welcome to bring food and drink, but we ask that you don't consume these in the galleries.
Do you have maps, guides and tours?
View the map to help navigate the Museum and explore incredible cultures from around the world. Discover ancient Egypt, Assyria and the Mediterranean and reconnect with objects including the Rosetta Stone, the treasures of Sutton Hoo and the Portland Vase. There are also themed object trails to follow: One hour at the Museum trail Collecting and empire trail Twelve objects to see with children trail Desire, love, identity: LGBTQ histories trail Although our audio guides are not currently available, you can download our object highlights audio to use on your device. The popular gallery introductions from our audio guide are also available on YouTube Music(Opens in new window) and Apple Music(Opens in new window). We're currently running the following Museum-led tours: Out-of-hours: an introduction to ancient Egypt Out-of-hours: life and death in ancient Egypt Out-of-hours: an introduction to the British Museum Out-of-hours: an introduction to China Out-of-hours: an introduction to the ancient Greek world Around the world in 70 minutes Desire, love, identity: an LGBTQ tour Eye-opener tours Friday night spotlight tours (resuming soon)
What is there for families?
There are a variety of free downloadable Museum explorer trails for your family to enjoy while at the Museum. Take on a Museum Mission (featured in six galleries) and challenge your family to a variety of tasks. Pose with mighty emperors in Room 70, or hunt for hieroglyphs among Egyptian sculptures. If you're visiting on a weekend head to the Families Desk and chat to one of our friendly family facilitators to make the most of your visit. Make sure to collect a backpack and Museum explorer trail. Fold-up prams and buggies can be left free of charge in the cloakroom, which is found by turning left immediately after passing through the Main entrance of the Museum. Items of large luggage (including some bags and rucksacks and all wheeled suitcases) are not permitted on-site. For more information on family facilities, please see our Family visits page.
Where can I find advice for disabled visitors?
For information about facilities for those with specific access requirements, please see the Accessibility at the Museum page. This includes how to book parking, reserve a wheelchair and information on access. If you need help during your visit, please speak to a uniformed member of staff. For accessible events, please check the Accessible events calendar.
What food and drink is there on-site?
We offer a wide range of refreshments at the Court Café in the west and north-east corners of the Great Court, which operates during the same opening hours as the Museum. Enjoy a Hokusai-inspired afternoon tea under the magnificent roof of the Great Court in the atmospheric Great Court Restaurant. The restaurant is open Thursday to Sunday from 11.00–17.00 (last sitting 16.00). Please note that the following catering points currently remain closed: Pizzeria Montague Café Coffee Lounge Visit our Food and drink page for more information.
Can I book a school visit?
Our popular Virtual Visits sessions and on-site Presentations, aimed at ages 7-11 are open for booking. There are also learning and activity resources on our Schools pages. Sign up to our Schools newsletter(Opens in new window) to receive regular news and updates.
How do I find an object from the collection?
Search Collection online to find out more about individual objects.
How can I identify objects?
Booking requests for the department study rooms at the British Museum main site can now be accepted. Opening hours vary. Our library and archive are open by appointment: Tuesday – Thursday, 10.00–13.00 and 14.00–16.00. How can I contact a
How can I contact a department with a collection or research enquiry?
Please see our Departments page for more information on contacting our curatorial departments.
Can I use images belonging to the Museum?
You can find high-resolution images for non-commercial use on Collection online. Search individual objects to see what's available. Click on the 'Use this image' link on the bottom right of the page. To request images for publication, or any commercial use, please visit www.bmimages.com(Opens in new window) or contact sales@bmimages.com.
How can I work/volunteer at the Museum?
The Museum doesn't accept speculative applications for jobs, work experience or internships and is unable to respond to these requests. If you're interested in applying for a position at the British Museum, please check our current vacancies(Opens in new window) and submit your application via the online recruitment system. Alternatively, check the Volunteer page for more information.
