London is home to some of the best museums in Europe and on top of that it’s free to get into UK state museums, although there can be charges for special exhibitions. So here are seven great London museums.
Victoria & Albert (V&A)
The Victoria and Albert Museum is probably my favourite London museum. On my most recent visit there I spent most of my time in the glass exhibition. I enjoyed the jewellery and costume exhibits on previous visits.
Glass exhibits at the V&A
You can take a picnic to eat out in their lovely garden.
Garden at the V&A
Museum of London
I made my firsit visit to the the Museum of London recently.
Model of circular theatre at the Museum of London
For me the most striking exhibit was the 1928 Art Deco style bronze lift/elevator taken from the Selfridges department store.
Selfridges lift at the Museum of London
British Museum
I haven’t been to the British Museum for ages but remember enjoying the Egyptology exhibits. Neha hightlights that you can choose from an Exhibition Menu at the Museum’s Court Restaurant. When I checked, the menu was based on the British artist Grayson Perry’s travels.
British Museum by Pallindrome6996
London Transport Museum
You have to pay to get into the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden (a rather hefty £13.50 per adult, but kids under 16 are free of charge), which is probably part of the reason I’ve never been. However Neha reckons it’s a really good day out with kids in London.
London Transport Museum by Stuart Pinfold
Science Museum
The Science Museum is Heather’s pick of free London museums for the family. I know our sons used to love going to hands on interactive sections there.
Science Museum by lesteph
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum was another favourite of our sons, where they could see the din0saur skeletons. From the start of November until January, there’s an ice rink just outside the Museum.
Natural History Museum
National Army Museum
I think that everyone should visit the National Army Museum to get some insight into the horrors of war. I found the WW1 recreations quite chilling. I didn’t plan a visit to this museum but passed it when walking to the Chelsea Physic Garden.
National Army Museum by cubby_t_bear
This post was featured in the Carnival of Cities on 12 January 2012.
Things to Do in London
We’ve lots more travel tips for things to do in London.
Where to Stay in London
There’s a wide choice of accommodation for all budgets in London. I’ve stayed at the Travelodge London Tower Bridge a couple of times and have seen rooms there for as little as £19 a night in Travelodge promotions. If you want to be able to prepare your own food, base2stay in Earl’s Court offers a mini kitchen, free in-room WiFi and it’s a 20 minute walk to the South Kensington museums. The St Ermin’s is a four star hotel central London, close to St James Park. If you want five star luxury the Langham, between Oxford Circus & Regents Park is a good bet.