London takes its reputation for best-in-class culture very seriously. Its museums are awe-inspiring centres of education and what’s more, many of them are completely free. Take a break from your studies (or enhance them further) and check out our top five.
A blue whale skeleton on display at the Natural History Museum
Explore two million years’ worth of history all under one roof. The British Museum is special for a long list of reasons, not least because it was the first public museum of its kind, founded in 1753.
Fast-forward to the present day, and the British Museum is home to ancient and modern cultural treasures, telling the story of human knowledge from Ancient Greece through to the Medieval Ages and beyond.
Located in Bloomsbury, its permanent collection is free, although some temporary exhibitions may charge for admission. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm.
Spread across former almshouses along Kingsland Road, the Museum of the Home is a true East London gem. Dedicated to the evolution of the home, the museum takes us through recreations of British interiors from 16th century up until the present day.
In each room you’ll find original furniture, art and décor from each of the periods showcased. There may even be items that you remember from your own childhood.
With free admission (some temporary exhibitions may charge), the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.
If you’re used to Central and East London, the Horniman Museum may feel a little off the beaten track, but it makes the list because it’s well worth the journey.
Opened in 1901, the Horniman is dedicated to anthropology, natural history and boasts a seriously impressive taxidermied animal collection. As well as being home to some 350,000 objects, its beautiful public gardens offer fantastic views across London.
The museum is free to enter although you will have to pay to visit its aquarium and butterfly house, as well as temporary exhibitions. Opening hours are 10am to 5.30pm daily.
Home to the Science Museum, the V&A and the Natural History Museum, South Kensington is the beating heart of London’s museum scene.
From its iconic exterior, you know the Natural History Museum is something special. Step inside, and you have eight million objects to explore. A must for dinosaur lovers, the museum exhibits specimens from throughout natural history.
This world-class visitor attraction is open daily from 10am to 5.50pm and is free to enter. And with its proximity to the Science Museum and V&A, why not make a day of it?
London owes much of its evolution into a global destination thanks to its transport links – and the London Transport Museum tells this story perfectly.
Based in London’s famous Covent Garden, the museum hosts an extraordinary collection of vehicles, examines the evolution of our modern transport system and brings this journey to life through vintage artworks and interactive displays.
This is one museum you need to pay for, but your ticket is valid for year-long unlimited visits. An Unlimited Annual Pass is £22. The museum is open throughout the year from 10am to 6pm.