Hey there! If you’re an art lover like me, you’ll be pleased to know that London is home to some of the most amazing art museums and galleries in the world. From the Tate Modern to the British museum London or National Gallery, the city is bursting with places to see incredible works of art. Also, lots of free museums London options are available, even for your trip 1 day in London!
In this post, I want to share with you some of my favorite museums and galleries in London and the unique collections they have on display including museums in London. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, these places are a must-see for anyone who loves art.
There are a lot of options when it comes to museum in London. Let’s dive in and explore some of the best art museums and galleries in London together!
If you want to take a stroll across London that will take you on a journey through the history, art, and culture of the city, follow this plan! In terms of art, history, and design, visitors to London won’t be short of options.
These museums of London and art galleries will take time a lot that you will not be able to squeeze some in between. You may want to check some of the private and guided tours to save time. I’m suggesting some below:
Let’s start!
Contents
- British Museum London
- Madame Tussauds London
- Sherlock Holmes Museum
- V&A museum – Victoria and Albert Museum
- Museum of Freemasonry
- Natural History Museum London
- National Army Museum
- Science Museum London
- Design Museum London
- Tate Britain
- Royal Academy of Arts
- The Wallace Collection
- National Gallery London
- Churchill War Rooms
- London Transport Museum
- The Household Cavalry Museum
- UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology
- Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre
- The Postal Museum
- Charles Dickens Museum
- Tate Modern
- Clink Prison Museum
British Museum London
A vast collection of elements of history, art and culture that can be attributed to the British Empire are all on display at this popular London attraction. Here is a real example of London tourist attractions and the answer to what to do in London question. The British Museum London first opened its doors in 1759 but became truly accessible during the 1830s.
The British Museum London is a true icon of tourism and is a popular reason for many people visit to London. It has such a reputation not only because it was the first national public museum in the world but it is also one of the world’s most visited museums. The beautiful building that houses the museum is of Greek revival style and sits in the centre of the Bloomsbury area, so take a moment to explore all the bookshops and cafes this area has to offer too!
- See – You must check out the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon Sculptures.
- Do – A guided tour of the museum. The museum also offers Deaf-led British Sign Language tours.
- Don’t forget to check the website beforehand to see what time certain exhibitions close!
Madame Tussauds London
Madame Tussauds is a notable London museum that displays wax sculptures of famous individuals such as historical figures, celebrities, and fictitious characters. The museum is well-known for its meticulous attention to detail and the great quality of its wax figures, which are frequently indistinguishable from the real persons they depict. Visitors can pose for photos with the wax figures and learn about the history of wax sculpting.
There are also interactive exhibits and activities inside the museum, such as a 4D Marvel Super Heroes experience and a Spirit of London ride that takes guests on a trip through the city’s history. Overall, Madame Tussauds is an entertaining and educational attraction for individuals of all ages.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
The Sherlock Holmes Museum in London is a prominent tourist attraction dedicated to the famous fictional detective. The museum, located at 221B Baker Street, is designed to resemble the residence of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson as depicted in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories. The museum includes exhibitions about Sherlock Holmes’ life and work, as well as displays of Victorian-era relics and memorabilia.
V&A museum – Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum, usually known as the V&A Museum, is a huge museum in London that displays an international collection of art, design, and decorative objects. The museum’s collection spans over 5,000 years of human creation and includes ceramics, textiles, apparel, furniture, and other items. The museum is well-known for its enormous collection of art and design dating from the Middle Ages to the present day, and it is a favorite destination for art and history enthusiasts.
Museum of Freemasonry
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This is where London’s darker side shines! It’s eerie, wild, and intense! The findings will definitely astound you. No conspiracy theory, horror flick, or fable can compare! This venue welcomes curious and inquiring minds with free tours, exhibitions, and an antique library!
The Freemasons are a controversial group that dates back to the 13th century, but this museum will tell everything; just don’t attend on Sunday because it’s closed! After being founded in 1838 and surviving the Blitz, the museum opened to the public in the 1980s, bringing relics dating back nearly 300 years!
Natural History Museum London
One of London’s museums takes visitors on a journey through the history of our planet.
The Natural History Museum London has an interesting history that dates back to 1753 when collector Sir Hans Sloane authorized Parliament to purchase possessions from his travels. These comprised natural and cultural artifacts that had previously been housed in the British Museum London. Many years later, a new governing council was established, and the Natural History Museum London was officially renamed in 1992.
The renowned Natural History Museum London is located on the prestigious Exhibition Road in the heart of South Kensington. Outside the museum, you can observe the spectacular Romanesque architecture that sets it apart from the more modern buildings that line this street in London.
Golden Checklist
- See – Sophie the Stegosaurus, Imilac meteorite and blue marlin, and The Ostro stone.
- Taste – Coffee and pastries at the museum’s Central Cafe.
- Buy – Cranbourne Boutique – Darwin’s Notebook
- Don’t forget to admire the outside too!
National Army Museum
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Come visit one of London’s landmarks to learn about the history of British warfare. The museum is housed in a Brutalist-style structure in Chelsea, within a short distance from the famed Chelsea Pensioners and the King’s Road shopping district. Shopping in London is a good experience though!
This building, which was once a part of the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s historic infirmary, now houses the National Army Museum. The museum explores the scope of the British army’s impact, taking a balanced approach in demonstrating its role as both an originator and a defender during wartime.
Golden Checklist
- See – West Indian Soldier Exhibition
- Do – Workshops as per the availability.
- Listen – The Berlin Wall Talk
- Don’t forget to wander along the river towards Albert Bridge after your visit!
Science Museum London
A London museum that allows you to get up and personal with everything that surrounds us and keeps our world running! As new inventions are released, the Science Museum London evolves to remain at the forefront of interactive science education. The hands-on approach to learning ensures that this will be an entertaining portion of the day!
Science collections were brought to buildings along Exhibition Road throughout the second half of the 1800s and were acknowledged as their own separate collection in 1909, with the primary goal still to teach and inspire!
Golden Checklist
- See – IMAX Movie Theatre, Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries
- Do – Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery
- Don’t forget to check the website before your visit to check the closing times of some exhibitions!
Design Museum London
At this artsy and frequently weird London attraction, you may test your perceptions… The Design Museum London is located on High Street Kensington, so you may do some shopping after your visit. Similarly, the museum is located in Holland Park, where you may wander and enjoy the London weather!
The Design Museum London is a relatively new addition to Kensington, having opened in 2008. The museum is housed in a Grade II listed building that was refurbished by a design team while preserving its original features.
Golden Checklist
- Do – Check all the exhibitions beforehand.
- Don’t forget to bring coins to the locker rooms!
Tate Britain
As one of the London things to do, immerse yourself in a mix of British art at a prominent London gallery.
The Tate Britain is as stunning on the outside as it is on the inside, with the gallery housed in a specifically built structure. It is located in the Millbank neighborhood of London, and walks along the Thames are easily accessible from here.
The Tate Britain is one of four art galleries that comprise the Tate Collection, and it houses works of British art ranging from the 16th century to the current day. Originally known as the Tate Gallery, it was renamed the Tate Britain when the Tate Gallery became part of the Tate family of institutions.
Golden Checklist
- See – Turner Collection, Henry Moore rooms.
- Buy – Manton Shop for a special selection of books, postcards, and merchandise.
- Do – Walk Through British Art
- Don’t forget to check the website to see what new exhibitions are coming out!
Royal Academy of Arts
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An art gallery committed to showcasing some of the most intriguing and developing artists and works of art!
The institution is a famous tourist destination since it has a history of receiving media attention for its oftentimes contentious displays, making it a must-see along this itinerary! Its position within Piccadilly makes it excellent for spending time at Green Park or trying out a restaurant in the nearby area.
In the 1760s, King George III authorized the formation of the Royal Academy of Arts, a society comprised of artists and architects dedicated to the promotion of art and design. These artists began displaying their work in Burlington House, where the Academy still resides today, in 1867.
Golden Checklist
- Buy – David Hockney Collection at The RA Shop
- Do – Check the exhibitions beforehand. There are both paid and free exhibitions.
- Don’t expect much in the way of free exhibitions- the majority you must pay for!
The Wallace Collection
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Free museums London option is here! A free London gallery offering a stunning collection of French fine and decorative art, housed in a London townhouse formerly owned by some of London’s most highly respected citizens.
The exhibits are all authentic, thanks to the special request by the original owner, Sir Richard Wallace, that no items leave the gallery.
National Gallery London
This London gallery of art, national museum London, located in the famous Trafalgar Square will provide you with the visual story of European masterpieces. This is one of the definite London tourist attractions.
The National Gallery is the famous backdrop of Trafalgar Square, which in itself is an incredibly popular tourist attraction, so feel free to use this event as an opportunity to see two landmarks in one! You should also appreciate the outside of the National Gallery, particularly the Sainsbury Wing which showcases some of the finest British postmodern architecture.
The first paintings featured in the gallery were a collection of pictures belonging to a banker, purchased in 1824. in 1831, Parliament built the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square to house this collection, and it continued to grow from there with newsrooms and wings being constructed and added on. From its beginnings, the gallery has been committed to accessibility and there was an emphasis on the enjoyment and appreciation of art regardless of background. This lives on today through educational programs and free exhibitions.
Golden Checklist
- See – You must see the Wheatfield with Cypresses by Van Gogh exhibit London.
- Photo Point – Nelson’s Column just outside Trafalgar Square.
- Don’t forget to book a ticket online to guarantee entry!
Churchill War Rooms
This London attraction was formerly the focal point of Britain’s efforts during WWII. Today, the underground offices of Whitehall provide a glimpse into life during this period. After visiting a museum, you may want to spend some time outside, and the War Rooms are excellently located to allow easy access to St James’s Park. If you want to go for a longer walk, you could go through the park to the Mall, which would take you to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.
During WWII, Britain fought from this underground secret network beneath London. Visitors may feel the strain as they study how Churchill and his aides devised the strategies that led to the allies’ victory. The museum also provides insight into Churchill’s life and career as a defining figure in British history.
Golden Checklist
- See – The Cabinet Rooms are where some of the most impactful decisions have been made.
- Don’t forget to collect your audio guide included in your admission price!
London Transport Museum
In London, you can learn about the past, present, and future of travel with displays ranging from horsepower to how groups are attempting to offer greener solutions. London truly is the city that never sleeps, thanks in large part to its extensive transportation infrastructure, which keeps its citizens and visitors moving. This has been true since the 1800s, and the museum chronicles the evolution of transportation alongside the city’s growth.
The Household Cavalry Museum
This London attraction exhibits the unique work of The Household Cavalry, true London icons, and provides a “behind the scenes” experience as you learn about the preparation that goes into Royal events…but only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday!
UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology
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The UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology is a museum located in London that houses an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including many that are over 5,000 years old. There are several reasons why people might want to visit the Petrie Museum:
- To learn about ancient Egyptian culture: The museum’s collection includes a wide range of artifacts from different periods of Egyptian history, including pottery, jewelry, statues, and funerary objects. By visiting the museum, you can learn about the daily lives, beliefs, and traditions of the ancient Egyptians.
- To see unique and rare artifacts: The Petrie Museum has one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts in the world, and many of the objects on display are rare or unique. For example, the museum has a collection of over 80,000 pots, which is the largest collection of its kind in the world.
- To experience the beauty of ancient art: The museum’s collection includes many beautifully crafted objects, such as jewelry, statues, and funerary objects. Visiting the museum allows you to appreciate the skill and artistry of the ancient Egyptians.
- To support the study of archaeology: The Petrie Museum is an important research institution, and by visiting the museum, you can support the ongoing study of Egyptian archaeology and the preservation of these important cultural artifacts.
Overall, the UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology is a fascinating and educational destination that offers a unique opportunity to learn about ancient Egyptian culture and see rare and beautiful artifacts.
Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre
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This destination in London has a lot to offer, whether it’s a chance to view artwork from the Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite eras or a look at the Roman arena where gladiator combat took place. Discovered in 1988, it has withstood the Great Fire of London and the Blitz and is now used to teach people about lots of things, all of which take place in the heart of London.
The Postal Museum
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You won’t be able to learn the fascinating history of Britain’s postal communication network or its influence on other parts of the world! The museum is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays. From interactive exhibitions to a rail ride, the Postal Museum has so much to offer that visiting there is guaranteed to be a delightful way to spend the day.
Charles Dickens Museum
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Visit the house in which Charles Dickens wrote his famous Oliver Twist and learn about the life of this iconic writer, but don’t go on Monday or Tuesday as it’s closed! The museum is housed in a Victorian house and is set up exactly as Dickens himself had left it, and so is a true testament to his life.
Tate Modern
This London gallery will enthral you with its trip through modern art. The Tate Modern is located along the Thames River and is close to many other London monuments. If you’re a Harry Potter lover, you’ll be thrilled to see Millennium Bridge, which appears in one of the films!
Tate Modern, one of Tate Britain’s siblings, was established to house the Tate Collection’s British and Modern parts. The Tate Contemporary, which opened in Bankside Power Station in 2000, was immediately popular and has remained the go-to site for modern art since the 1900s.
Golden Checklist
- See – Agnes Martin and Lenore Tawney display.
- Do – check out the free ‘Beyond Boundaries’ tour.
- Don’t forget to check out the viewing platform for breathtaking views of London’s skyline!
Clink Prison Museum
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This London attraction looks into the history of one of England’s most notorious prisons which dates back to the 12th century. Don’t forget to book your ticket online- entry is sadly not free! However, visiting this museum offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about punishment in the Middle Ages and even access the London area of Southwark afterwards, especially all the food stalls!
Follow this itinerary if you wish to take a stroll through London that will take you through the city’s history, art, and culture. Visitors to London will be spoiled for choice when it comes to art, history, and design.
