18 best free museums in london

Walk Through London’s Past for Free

London is home to some of the most impressive museums in the world, and many of them are completely free to enter. Many of the best free museums in London offer world-class collections that rival paid attractions. Whether you're into ancient history, art, science, or design, there’s something here for everyone.

In this guide, we will walk you through some of London's free museums, including everything you need to know before visiting. You will find opening hours, nearby metro stations, and what makes each place special.

So join us and dive into a world of culture, art, science, and stories without spending a single pound.

Top 18 Free Museums to Visit in London

Best Free Museums In London Highlights – Navigate Here

1. Natural History Museum
2. British Museum
3. National Gallery
4. Science Museum
5. Victoria & Albert Museum
6. Tate Modern
7. National Portrait Gallery
8. Tate Britain
9. Imperial War Museum
10. National Maritime Museum
11. Queen’s House
12. Young V&A
13. Bank of England Museum
14. Design Museum
15. Queer Britain
16. Museum of London Docklands
17. The Brown Collection
18. London Museum (Opening 2026)
19. Frequently asked questions about London's Free Museum

1. London's Natural History Museum

London's Natural History Museum Interior View

Walk beneath a giant blue whale skeleton and step into one of London’s most awe-inspiring museum spaces.

The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most iconic and family-friendly museums, home to over 80 million specimens covering the natural world. From towering dinosaurs and glittering gemstones to interactive zones on volcanoes and human evolution, it offers something for every age and interest.

A suspended blue whale skeleton is a focal point in Hintze Hall, while the T. rex always draws young visitors. Located in South Kensington and free to enter, the museum blends beautiful architecture with immersive galleries and live science demonstrations.

This is one of the best free museums in London for people who are interested in the natural historical dynamics of the world.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:50 (Last Admission 17:30)
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Free entry. Booking is recommended to skip the queue. Special exhibitions require a paid ticket.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: South Kensington, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

🚇 Closest underground station:

• South Kensington Station - Piccadilly (Dark Blue), District (Green), Circle (Yellow) - 5-minute walk.
• Gloucester Road Station - District (Green) and Circle (Yellow) - 10-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

🔗 Check out our full guide to the Natural History Museum

2. British Museum in London

British Museum’s Famous Great Court

Explore the history of human civilisation through treasures like the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and ancient Greek sculptures.

The British Museum is one of the world's greatest cultural institutions, home to millions of artefacts spanning human history, art, and archaeology. Its galleries offer an exploration of civilisations from ancient times to the present.

Located in Bloomsbury, the museum is a must-see for history lovers, families, and first-time Londoners. With its grand architecture and world-famous collection, it offers something for everyone.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:00 (Last Admission 16:45). On Fridays till 20:30 (Last admission 20:15)
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Free entry, but ticket numbers are limited to allow for a more comfortable visitor experience. Booking ahead is a must. Special exhibitions require a paid ticket.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Bloomsbury, London Borough of Camden

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Tottenham Court Road Station - Central Line (Red) and Northern Line (Black) - 6-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, UK

🔗 Head to the British Museum website for opening times, highlights, and what’s on.

3. National Gallery

Front of the National Gallery, London, at Trafalgar Square

Step into the heart of London and explore a world-class collection of European paintings spanning seven centuries.

The National Gallery houses over 2,300 masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Turner. All visitors can access the museum's permanent collection for free because it is located in Trafalgar Square.

A visit to the gallery will inspire you, whether you are an art enthusiast or just a casual observer.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (Fridays until 21:00)
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December and 1 January
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: General admission is free, and donations are welcome.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Charing Cross Station – Bakerloo (Brown) and Northern (Black) Lines – 2-minute walk.
  

🏛️ Address: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN

🔗 See what’s on at the National Gallery via the official website.

4. Science Museum

Science Museum Entrance Kensington

Touch a space capsule, power a steam engine, or explore the future of medicine, all under one roof.

Space travel and medical breakthroughs are among the exhibits at the Science Museum in South Kensington. Wonderlab, rockets, and galleries that trace the evolution of technology and innovation are highlights.

The museum is free to visit and ideal for families, school-age children, and curious adults alike. It offers plenty of interactive areas, live demonstrations, and is an educational hotspot for curious minds.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (Last Admission 17:15)
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Free, however, a ticket must be booked. Exhibitions are at a separate cost. Donating is optional.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: South Kensington, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• South Kensington Station - District Line (Green), Circle Line (Yellow) and Piccadilly Line (Dark Blue) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD, UK

🔗 Visit the Science Museum website for hours, family activities, and current exhibitions.

5. Victoria & Albert Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum Façade

From couture gowns to Renaissance sculptures, the V&A is where design, fashion, and decorative art come alive.

The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance, housing everything from ancient sculptures to fashion. Its vast collection spans 5,000 years of creativity, including decorative arts, textiles, photography, and iconic design pieces from around the globe.

Located in South Kensington, this museum is free to enter and perfect for design lovers and culture seekers alike. There are rotating exhibitions, stunning architecture, and a quiet courtyard café.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:45 (Last Admission 17:45). Fridays until 22:00, but some galleries close after 17.45.
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Entry is free, but exhibitions and events may have a separate fee.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: South Kensington, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• South Kensington Station - District Line (Green), Circle Line (Yellow) and Piccadilly Line (Dark Blue) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL, UK

🔗 Explore opening times and current shows at the Victoria and Albert Museum website.

6. Tate Modern

Tate Modern Museum Staircase View - Free Museums of London

Step inside a former power station and discover bold, provocative art that redefines what a museum can be.

The Tate Modern is London's most innovative art museum, housed in a converted power station on the South Bank, displaying modern and contemporary art by Picasso, Rothko, Warhol, and Hockney, among many others.

The museum's vast Turbine Hall hosts immersive installations that change regularly, and its free galleries feature everything from abstract sculpture to video art. This riverside venue is free and always evolving, making it ideal for curious minds and creatives.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (Last Admission 17:30).
• ❌ Closed: 24–26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Visit the permanent collection for free; however, for exhibitions, it is advised to book in advance.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Bankside, London Borough of Southwark

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Southwark Station - Jubilee Line (Grey) - 10-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, UK

🔗 Visit the official Tate Modern website for hours, free displays, and ticketed exhibitions.

7. The National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery Entrance View

Meet the people who shaped Britain’s past and present, from Tudor royals to modern icons.

The National Portrait Gallery brings British history to life through the people who shaped it. From kings and queens to poets, politicians, and pop icons, the portraits span centuries of culture and identity.

Fresh from a major refurbishment, the gallery combines historic artworks with modern exhibitions and contemporary faces. It is free to enter and just a short walk from Trafalgar Square, making it a perfect stop for solo travellers, art lovers, or anyone exploring central London.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:30–18:00. On Friday and Saturday from 10:30-21:00.
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Free and booking is recommended to guarantee entry. Exhibitions are at a fee.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster

🚇 Closest Underground Stations:

• Charing Cross Station - Northern Line (Black), Bakerloo Line (Brown) - 3-minute walk.
• Leicester Square Station - Northern Line (Black) and the Piccadilly Line (Dark Blue) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE, UK

🔗 Find updated opening hours and events at the National Portrait Gallery’s official site.

8. Tate Britain in London

Elegant Façade of Tate Britain

Journey through the story of British art, from the dramatic seascapes of Turner to the vibrant works of Hockney.

Tate Britain is home to the world's largest collection of British art, from the 1500s to today, including iconic works by J.M.W. Turner, William Blake, and David Hockney, as well as striking contemporary installations.

This museum is located on Millbank and is free to enter. It offers a peaceful setting ideal for art lovers, students, or anyone curious about British creativity.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (Last Admission: 17:30)
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: The collection is free, however, exhibitions are against a fee and must be booked before visiting.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Millbank, City of Westminster

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Pimlico Station - Victoria Line (Light Blue) - 10-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG, UK

🔗 Visit the Tate Britain website for opening times, exhibitions, and visitor information.

9. Imperial War Museum

Front View of Imperial War Museum

Experience the powerful stories of war and conflict through tanks, aircraft, and deeply personal exhibits.

The Imperial War Museum offers a powerful look at conflict, remembrance, and the impact of war on people’s lives. Its exhibitions cover both World Wars and modern conflicts, with real tanks, aircraft, personal stories, and thought-provoking galleries.

The museum is free to enter and is suitable for students, adults, and older children with an interest in history, politics, or military technology. The museum offers an immersive and emotionally moving setting.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Entry is free and no booking is required.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Lambeth, London Borough of Lambeth

🚇 Closest Underground Stations:

• Lambeth North Station - Bakerloo Line (Brown) - 5-minute walk.
• Elephant & Castle Station - Bakerloo Line (Brown), Northern Line (Black) - 10-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ UK

🔗 See visiting hours and featured exhibits on the Imperial War Museum website.

10. National Maritime Museum

National Maritime Museum Entrance

Set sail through Britain’s naval history in a museum filled with maps, ship models, and heroic sea tales.

With its rich maritime history, the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich is the largest of its kind in the world. With Nelson's Trafalgar coat, maps, and interactive displays, the museum reveals the era of exploration, naval warfare, and maritime trade.

This museum is free to enter, great for all ages, and features hands-on galleries for children, outdoor spaces, and spectacular views of the River Thames.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:00
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: It's free to visit and walk-ins are welcome, but booking online is recommended to ensure entry. Exhibitions are charged.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Greenwich, Royal Borough of Greenwich

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• There is NO metro station close to the museum.
• Most metro lines somehow connect to the DLR. The following Metro stations connect to the DLR: Tower Hill, Whitechapel, Bank, Bow Road, West Ham, and Canning Town. Once you arrive at one of these stations, follow the signs to catch the DLR.
• Stop at Cutty Sark Station (DLR) - 10-minute walk to the museum.

🏛️ Address: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, UK

🔗 Head to the National Maritime Museum site for times, exhibitions, and family activities.

11. Queen's House

Queen’s House in Greenwich, London

Step into a former royal residence that blends classical architecture with stunning art and historic intrigue.

As part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, the Queen's House is a masterpiece of classical architecture. Designed in the 17th century for Queen Anne of Denmark, it now houses a stunning collection of royal portraits, naval scenes, and contemporary art.

With its iconic Tulip Staircase and views across Greenwich Park, it's a peaceful, inspiring stop for anyone exploring the Royal Museums Greenwich. It's free admission and beautiful setting make it a must-see for anyone exploring the Royal Museums Greenwich.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:00
• ❌ Closed: There are some days when the museum will be closed due to object moves or special events. Check their website for more information.
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: It is free to visit and walk-ins are allowed; however, it is recommended to book your tickets online to guarantee entry. Exhibitions are at a fee.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Greenwich, Royal Borough of Greenwich

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• There is NO metro station close to the museum.
• Most metro lines somehow connect to the DLR. The following Metro stations connect to the DLR: Tower Hill, Whitechapel, Bank, Bow Road, West Ham, and Canning Town. Once you arrive at one of these stations, follow the signs to catch the DLR.
• Stop at Cutty Sark Station (DLR) - 10-minute walk to the museum.

🏛️ Address: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, UK

🔗 Discover more about Queen’s House through the official Royal Museums Greenwich website.

12. Young V&A

Young V&A Museum Modern Design

Bright, playful, and packed with imagination, the Young V&A is where kids can explore creativity hands-on.

Young V&A, a vibrant museum in East London devoted exclusively to children, creativity, and play, was recently redesigned for a new generation. Kids can explore design, technology, storytelling, and art in an interactive way.

Designed for families with children under 14, the museum also offers sensory-friendly events, workshops, and themed trails.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:45 (Galleries close from 17:00)
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Tickets are not required for general admission, and there is no booking required.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Bethnal Green, London Borough of Tower Hamlets

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Bethnal Green - Central Line (Red) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, London E2 9PA, UK

🔗 Visit the Young V&A website to explore family events, hours, and creative spaces.

13. Bank of England Museum

Exterior Bank of England Museum

Discover the story of money, and even try lifting a real gold bar inside the UK's central bank.

Hidden inside the historic Bank of England building, this museum offers a fascinating look at the UK's financial history. From gold bars and forgery tools to old banknotes and economic crashes, it shows how money has shaped British life over the centuries.

Located in the City of London, the museum is free to visit and ideal for curious adults, students, or anyone interested in economics and politics. 

• 📅 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00-17:00 (Last Admission 16:30). Open until 8:00 PM on the third Thursday of each month (last admission at 19:30)
• ❌ Closed: Bank Holidays and weekends
  
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Admission is free and does not require a booking or ticket.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: City of London

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Bank Station - DLR and Central Line (Red), Northern Line (Black) - 4-minute walk.
• Monument Station - Circle Line (Yellow), District Line (Green) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: Bartholomew Ln, London EC2R 8AH, UK

🔗 Visit the Bank of England Museum’s website for opening details and what to expect.

14. Design Museum

Inside the Vibrant Design Museum

Explore how design shapes the modern world through bold exhibitions on fashion, technology, and everyday objects.

The Design Museum is London's leading museum for contemporary design, featuring fashion, architecture, product innovation, and digital innovation. Featuring a fascinating look at the design process and how it shapes everyday life, its permanent gallery, Designer Maker User, is free to visit.

The museum offers workshops, talks, and a sleek Kensington location that make it a great educational stop for curious visitors of all ages, as well as a must-visit for design lovers. 

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, Monday to Thursday 10:00-17:00 and Friday to Sunday 10:00-18:00
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: The Designer Maker User is free to visit and does not require a ticket. The rest of the exhibitions are against a fee and require pre-booking with a ticket.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Kensington High Street, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

🚇 Closest Underground Stations:

• Kensington (Olympia) - District Line (Green) and Train service - 12-minute walk.
• Holland Park Station - Central Line (Red) - 20-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: 224-238 Kensington High St, London W8 6AG, UK

🔗 Check out hours, free displays, and exhibitions on the Design Museum website.

15. Queer Britain Museum

Diverse Display at Queer Britain

Celebrate the lives, stories, and contributions of LGBTQ+ communities at the UK’s first national queer museum.

The first ever national LGBTQ+ museum in the UK, Queer Britain offers an inclusive space that reflects diversity and progress by showcasing the history, stories, and contributions of queer communities.

You can learn about LGBTQ+ culture and history in a thoughtful, welcoming environment at this free museum in King's Cross.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 12:00-18:00. 
• ❌ Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Although not 100% free, the museum relies on donations, so pay what you can. You can cut a ticket through their website.
  
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: King’s Cross, London Borough of Camden

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• King's Cross St. Pancras - Circle Line (Yellow), Hammersmith Line (Pink), Metropolitan Line, Northern Line (Black), Piccadilly Line (Dark Blue), Victoria Line (Light Blue) - 5-minute walk.

🏛️ Address: 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH, UK

🔗 Visit the official Queer Britain website to find hours and the latest exhibitions.

16. Museum of London Docklands

Museum of London Docklands Building

Uncover the gritty, global story of London’s riverside past in a restored 200-year-old warehouse.

Find out how the River Thames shaped London from slavery and sugar to shipping and sailors in this museum that explores the city's docklands and trade history.

Located in Canary Wharf, the museum offers hands-on galleries for children, temporary exhibitions, and a compelling walk through London's involvement in transatlantic slavery.

• 📅 Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00-17:00 (Last Admission 16:30)
• ❌ Closed: 24-26 December
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Entrance is free, and there is no need to book a ticket.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: Canary Wharf, London Borough of Tower Hamlets

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Canary Warf - Jubilee Line (Grey) - 3-minute walk
• West India Quay (DLR) - 1-minute walk

🏛️ Address: No. 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL, UK

🔗 See the Museum of London Docklands website for opening hours and current galleries.

17. The Brown Collection

Colourful Gallery at The Brown Collection

Enter a Georgian townhouse transformed by artist Glenn Brown into a surreal world of contemporary and classical art.

Spread across four floors, this unique art museum was created by British artist Glenn Brown, blending classical art influences with bold contemporary works. The beautifully restored Georgian townhouse offers a striking contrast between old and new.

While the museum is small, it is free to enter and a great place for visitors to gain insight into modern art in a peaceful setting.

View here for upcoming events. 

• 📅 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 10:30–18:00
  
• 🎫 Admission & Booking: Free admission and no ticket is needed to enter.
• 📍 Neighbourhood/District: King's Cross, London Borough of Camden

🚇 Closest Underground Station:

• Bond Street - Elizabeth Line (Purple), Central Line (Red), Jubilee Line (Grey) - 5 minute walk. 
• Oxford Circus - Bakerloo Line (Brown), Central Line (Red), Victoria Line (Blue) - 10 minute walk.
  

🏛️ Address: 1 Bentinck Mews, London W1U 2AF, UK

🔗 Visit The Brown Collection website to learn more about the gallery and what’s on.

18. Museum of London (London Museum)

In December 2022, the Museum of London closed permanently as it will be relocated elsewhere. The brand new museum is set to open in 2026, with a new name as 'London Museum'.

This museum will take over the historic Smithfield Market site with a bold new vision for telling the city’s story. The redesigned space will feature immersive galleries, modern exhibitions, and thousands of objects that trace London’s evolution from prehistoric times to the present day.

Any further details on this page about the new museum will be updated when it opens.

Neighbourhood/District:  Smithfield, City of London

🏛️ Address: Smithfield London

🔗 Visit the official London Museum website for opening plans and future exhibitions.

Common Questions About the Best Free Museums in London

And there you have it, a comprehensive list of free museums to visit across London for everyone, whether you are spending a weekend in London or just looking for something to do on a rainy day.

Are you looking for more ways to explore the city without breaking the bank?

Check out our complete guide to the best free things to do in London. A great resource for explorers, curious minds, and families on the go.

free tours in london england

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Photo sources & resources

• Natural History Museum - Image by Public Co from Pixabay
• British Museum - Image by hurk from Pixabay
• Science Museum - Shadowssettle, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Tate Modern - Image by Heiko from Pixabay
• National Portrait Gallery - No Swan So Fine, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Tate Britain - Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Imperial War Museum - Ввласенко, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• National Maritime Museum - Katie Chan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Queen’s House - Rept0n1x, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Young V&A - Matt Brown, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Bank of England Museum - Joyofmuseums, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Design Museum - Doyle of London, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Queer Britain Museum - PinkEM, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Museum of London Docklands - Joyofmuseums, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• The Brown Collection - Justinakiskyte, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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