The British Museum
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British Museum - by Hulki Okan Tabak from Pixabay
Description
The British Museum is dedicated to human history, art and culture. It is the most visited museum in the country and its permanent collection comprises over 8M items mostly collected during the British Empire era. It was established in 1753 (the first public national museum in the world) and its footprint grew over time. Its departments include (i) Egypt and Sudan, (ii) Greece and Rome, (iii) the Middle East, (iv) Prints and Drawings, (v) Britain, Europe and Prehistory, (vi) Asia, (vii) Africa, Oceania and the Americas, (viii) Coins and Medals, (ix) Conservation and Scientific Research, and (x) Libraries and archives. Note that the permanent collection is free, but an entrance fee is charged for temporary exhibitions
Access & Transport
The main entrance is on Great Russell Street (WC1B 3DG). The closest underground stations are Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square and Goodge Street (Northern, Central and Picadilly lines), all within a 5-10' walking distance. The closest bus stops are on New Oxford St, Tottenham Court Road and Southampton Row.
Instructions & Recommendations
Book your free ticket online to guarantee Museum entry - admission to the permanent collection is free but an entrance fee is charged for temporary exhibitions. We would advise spending about 2.5 to 4h to avoid saturation. Before or after that, it may be worth taking a walk in the Covent Garden or Soho neighbourhoods.
Environmental & Social
Some environment impact to run the museum (mostly electricity). Positive from a social perspective by helping spread culture and the arts.
Conclusion
The British Museum has one of the most comprehensive cultural collections in the world with many unique and famous items. Rather than try to list the reasons for going, it would be faster to do the opposite. In our view, unless you have no interest into ancient cutures and works of art, or you have already earmarked another 2-3 museums during your stay in London, this should be on your itinerary.
Key positive
Immense and varied collections. Enough for more than 1 visit
Permanent collections are free
Beautiful building, especially inside - and centrally located
Key negative
Not all items can be displayed and there is some form of rotation
Suitability
Suitable for all ages even though younger kids may get bored quickly. No access problem for visitors with mobility issues
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:3h
Monday10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday10:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 17:00
Friday10:00 - 20:30
Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 17:00