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British Museum

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · LONDON

British Museum

A free treasure house of world history: the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and a gallery of the Islamic world.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
3 hours
Entry
Free
Best time
Weekday mornings
Area
Bloomsbury

Two million years of history, from the Rosetta Stone to Egyptian mummies. Entry is free.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

  • Tube: Tottenham Court Road, Holborn or Russell Square, about 5–10 minutes' walk.
  • Booking: Entry is free; booking a time slot online is recommended at busy times.
  • Opening: Open daily; late opening on Fridays.

The story of the British Museum

Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the world's first national public museum. Its collection of about 8 million objects covers two million years of human history.

Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked Egyptian hieroglyphs, Egyptian mummies, Assyrian reliefs and the Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic World. The Great Court is covered by a striking glass roof.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year; a perfect rainy-day plan.

Best time of day

Weekday mornings, right at opening.

Fridays

Late opening for some galleries.

Tips before you go

  • Book a free time slot online and start in the Great Court.
  • Pick a few galleries rather than trying to see everything.
  • Download the museum map or app before you go.

Best hotels near the British Museum

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

The Savoy

Legendary hotel on the Strand by the Thames.

See prices

The Ritz London

Famous Piccadilly hotel near Green Park.

See prices

Shangri-La The Shard, London

Rooms high in the Shard with views over the city.

See prices
All hotels near the British Museum

What's around the British Museum

  • Bloomsbury squaresLeafy Georgian squares.
  • Covent Garden15 minutes' walk.
  • London Central MosqueRegent's Park mosque, by taxi.
  • Oxford StreetShopping street nearby.

Questions travellers ask

Is the British Museum free?

Yes, except special exhibitions.

How long should I spend?

At least 3 hours.

Is there Islamic art?

Yes, in the Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic World.

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Travel Plan · British Museum Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure