Imperial War Museum (IWM)

The basics

The Imperial War Museum London is a popular sight for military buffs. With so much to take in throughout the museum's exhibitions, most visitors explore independently, often arriving via London hop-on hop-off bus tours. The Thameside HMS Belfast warship, which lies on the Thames River roughly two miles from the museum, is also part of the IWM. Similarly, the Churchill War Rooms in central London (housed in the former prime minister’s secret WWII bunker) are part of the collection too.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance to the museum is free, and while London's Imperial War Museum (IWM) tickets are not required, small donations are appreciated.

• The museum is wheelchair accessible—lifts and ramps are available on all floors.

• Visitor facilities include restrooms, baggage lockers, a gift shop, and a café-restaurant.

• Note that some exhibits, notably the Holocaust exhibition, may not be suitable for young kids.

How to get there

The Imperial War Museum London is located on Lambeth Road in London’s Southwark borough. Take the Tube to Lambeth North Station (Bakerloo line), Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee and Northern lines), or Elephant & Castle Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines). Bus routes (3, 12, 53, 59, 148, 159, 344, 360, 453, and C10) also serve the museum. Avoid driving; parking is difficult to find, and if you visit during the week, you'll have to pay the London congestion charge.

When to get there

The museum is open year-round from 10am to 5pm, but it can get crowded during the peak summer months. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving right when the doors open, as it’s typically the most peaceful time. Arriving early and choosing a weekday visit is the best way to avoid large crowds, allowing you to enjoy the exhibits without the hassle of long lines.

Exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum

Thanks to a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2014, the museum features a revamped WWI section, with exhibits on the Eastern Front and the famous Christmas Truce of 1914, plus a completely redesigned World War II section.

Among the many highlights are the popular display of the 1916 Battle of the Somme, the moving Holocaust Exhibition, the Lord Ashcroft Gallery of Extraordinary Heroes, which honors some of Britain's greatest war heroes. Other collections include the Secret War exhibit, which focuses on espionage and the covert operations of MI5 and MI6, as well as cyberterrorism.

Ways to explore

With so much to take in throughout the museum’s exhibitions, most visitors explore the Imperial War Museum (IWM) independently. It’s on the London hop-on hop-off bus tour route, making access easy on a day of sightseeing. Two additional locations are part of the Imperial War Museum: The Thameside HMS Belfast warship, which lies on the Thames River roughly 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the museum, and Churchill War Rooms in central London, housed in the former prime minister’s secret WWII bunker. Some World War II-focused London walking tours also pass by the museum.

Accessibility

Step-free access is available at the West Entrance, and the venue is wheelchair accessible elsewhere. An access guide is available for download on the website.

Age limits

No age restrictions, although exhibits about the Holocaust are recommended for ages 14 and over.

What to pack

You’ll cover a lot of ground at the museum, so wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

What to wear

Layers, even if it’s warm outside

Not allowed

Pets, luggage with wheels, photography in certain galleries, touching exhibits

Amenities

Free admission, gift shop, café, cloakroom

Address

The Imperial War Museum London is located on Lambeth Road in London’s Southwark borough and is accessible by driving (not recommended) and public transportation (plentiful options).

Driving

Avoid driving; parking is difficult to find, and if you visit on a weekday, you’ll have to pay the daily London Congestion Charge. Rideshares such as Bolt and Uber are widely available across England’s capital.

Public transportation

Take the tube to Lambeth North Station (Bakerloo Line), Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, and Northern lines), or Elephant & Castle Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines). Bus routes (3, 12, 53, 59, 148, 159, 344, 360, 453, and C10) also serve the museum.

Best times to visit

Try to arrive near the museum’s 10am opening time, as history buffs tend to spend around three hours exploring the museum.

Best days to visit

Weekdays offer the quietest experience. The museum closes from December 24–26, but it’s open every other day.

Best months to visit

Thanks to its indoor exhibits, Imperial War Museum is an ideal spot for a rainy day—London sees the most of these from November through April.

Special events

At the end of August, the IWM History festival takes place at the IWM Duxford. It brings together historians and authors for talks and reenactments.