Experiences
The 5 Best Museums in London
World-class and mostly free: the best museums in London, from the great institutions to the hidden gems.
In short: our top picks are The British Museum, Natural History Museum and Tate Modern. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
London has some of the greatest museums on earth, and the best of them are free. From the vast institutions to the small, strange and specialist, this is a city you could lose months in. These are the museums worth your time, whether you have an afternoon or a lifetime, chosen with a local’s eye.
| Place | Area |
|---|---|
| The British Museum | Bloomsbury |
| Natural History Museum | South Kensington |
| Tate Modern | Bankside |
| Victoria and Albert Museum | South Kensington |
| Sir John Soane's Museum | Holborn |
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Editor’s choice
The British Museum
Why we pick itTwo million years of human history under one roof, free to all; the Rosetta Stone and the Reading Room alone justify the trip.
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Natural History Museum
Why we pick itA cathedral to the natural world; the Hintze Hall and the dinosaurs are unmissable, and it is free.
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Tate Modern
Why we pick itA former power station turned the world's great modern-art museum; free, brilliant, and best after dark.
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Victoria and Albert Museum
Why we pick itThe world's leading museum of art and design; endlessly beautiful, free, with a lovely courtyard cafe.
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Sir John Soane's Museum
Why we pick itAn architect's house left exactly as he died, crammed with antiquities; free, tiny and unforgettable.
Before you book
The big museums are free but special exhibitions are ticketed, so book those ahead. Go early or late to dodge the school groups and the crowds. And do not try to see it all in one visit; pick a wing or a collection and do it properly, then come back for the rest.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
The British Museum is our editor's choice: Two million years of human history under one roof, free to all; the Rosetta Stone and the Reading Room alone justify the trip. The British Museum, Natural History Museum and Tate Modern lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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