British Museum

The basics

From its glass-roof-enclosed Great Court to its galleries bursting with treasures from the ancient world—including the Elgin Marbles, transported to the U.K. in 1801 by the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire—the British Museum makes an extraordinary spectacle. Given how much there is to see here, it's best to allow at least two hours for a British Museum tour. That said, don't expect to see everything in one visit: It would take days to explore the entire museum, and it's easy to get lost. With so much to see, visiting with a museum guide is a convenient choice, and a small-group or private guided tour will ensure you maximize your time.

Things to know before you go

• You do not need to buy British Museum tickets to enter the museum, although donations are welcome. 

• Visitors must pass security checks to enter the museum, and large bags and suitcases are prohibited.

• On-site facilities in the museum include shops, cafés, and restaurants.

• Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum.

• Audio guides are offered in several languages.

• The British Museum is fully wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

The British Museum is located on Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, in the heart of central London. The museum is easy to reach by bus or tube, and the Tottenham Court Road (Northern Line), Russell Square (Piccadilly Line), and Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines) underground stations are all less than a 5-minute walk away.

When to get there

The museum is open daily, year-round. The quietest time to visit is on a weekday either when the doors open or after 3pm—school groups often visit in the mornings. Morning visitors should plan to visit the most popular exhibits (such as the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures) right away, while afternoon visitors might save these until later, when the crowds have left. Friday evenings are also a good time to visit, when there are normally fewer tour groups and families. Look out for special exhibitions, events, and film screenings throughout the year, too.

Highlights of the British Museum

For first-time visitors, the most popular exhibits include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures from ancient Greece, the Persian Oxus Treasure, and the Ancient Egypt collection, which houses the Mummy of Katebet. Other must-see artifacts include the Portland Vase, which dates back to the 1st century BC; the Lewis chessmen, a collection of carved chess pieces dating back to the 12th century; and a statue from Easter Island, which is on display in the Living and Dying Gallery.

How long does it take to tour the British Museum?

It takes around three hours to complete the Museum Trail—a route suggested by the British Museum. This covers the museum’s highlights, such as the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon sculptures, and reveals artifacts from across human history. There’s also an express 1-hour route if you're short on time.

Is there a dress code for the British Museum?

No, there is no dress code for the British Museum. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum’s colossal size means you’ll be doing plenty of steps, and take some lightweight layers—in the summer, the atrium can get hot. You must undergo a quick security check on entry if you take a bag.

What is the best day to visit the British Museum?

The best day to visit the British Museum is Wednesday, outside European school holidays. Most European travelers spend a long weekend in London—typically from Thursday to Tuesday—so you'll miss the majority. Alternatively, head to the museum early and spread out your visits over a few days.

Can you bring water to the British Museum?

You can't bring food and drinks into the museum, as you cannot consume anything inside the galleries. You can, however, eat and drink in the museum forecourt or in the on-site cafe, where you can buy hot and cold drinks and a selection of European-style snacks.

Is it cold inside the British Museum?

Depending on which part of the British Museum you’re in, you might experience temperatures ranging from warm to slightly colder. On hot days, the sun tends to stream through the glass-paneled atrium, making it feel much warmer. Take an extra layer and a bottle of water to account for all climates.

Are there restrooms at the British Museum?

Yes, there are restrooms at the British Museum. You’ll find accessible toilets on the museum’s three floors, which you can travel between using the stairs or the elevator. There are also baby changing facilities, baby feeding stations, and a cloakroom.

Ways to explore

Even though admission tickets for the British Museum are free, you need to book your entry slot in advance. Passes tend to sell out on weekends and public holidays, so try to secure your slot a few days in advance. Given how much there is to see here, it’s best to allow at least two hours for the museum. To maximize your time, opt for a self-guided audio tour or—even better—go on a shared or private tour with a guide who can help you navigate straight to the highlights.

Accessibility

The British Museum is partly accessible but doesn’t have step-free access to all exhibits. You’ll find accessible toilets and wheelchair rentals. It welcomes service and emotional support animals.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring a small bag, as large pieces of luggage aren’t allowed inside the museum. You’ll need to pass a security check to enter.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Selfie sticks, wheelie cases, eating and drinking outside designated areas.

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, gift shop, bookstore, cafés, restaurant, pizzeria

Address

The British Museum occupies a prime spot in Central London, a short walk from other top London museums such as Sir John Soane’s Museum and the Charles Dickens Museum.

Driving

Driving to the British Museum is not recommended—this part of London is notorious for traffic jams and road chaos, so it’s best to hail a black cab or use a rideshare app if you prefer to go by car.

Public transportation

Four London Underground stations are less than a 10-minute walk from the British Museum. These include Tottenham Court Road on the Central, Elizabeth, and Northern lines; Holborn on the Piccadilly and Central lines; Russel Square on the Piccadilly Line; and Goodge Street on the Northern line.

Best times to visit

Just after opening or after 4pm, which lets you explore without the daytime crowds. School groups usually arrive midmorning in the middle of the week.

Best days to visit

The museum stays open until 8:30pm on Friday evening. Combine a night visit with some drinks in the electric atmosphere of Soho, a 10-minute walk away.

Best months to visit

Any time that’s not a UK school holiday, including the shoulder seasons of January, March, and November, when London’s cold weather encourages indoor activities

Special events

The British Museum hosts a series of talks, performances, live music, and themed guided tours, plus rotating temporary exhibits.