What Museums Are Not Free in London: A Guide for Budget Travelers

London is loaded with an array of free museums, art galleries, historical landmarks, and other attractions that are great for travelers on a budget. However, not all museums in the capital city are free. In this blog post, we will discuss what museums are not free in London, their admission fees, and other useful information that will help you plan your trip better.

The British Museum

The British Museum, which exhibits over 2 million years of human history from across the globe, is undoubtedly one of the best museums in London. Unfortunately, it is not free to enter the British Museum. However, the museum does not charge for permanent collections, so visitors can enjoy world-famous exhibits like the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies without paying a penny. However, some temporary exhibitions require tickets.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London, a historic castle on the north bank of River Thames, was once a royal palace, treasury, prison, and fortress. Today, it is a popular attraction that houses the Crown Jewels and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the British monarchy. While some areas of the Tower of London are free to enter, such as the Tower Green and the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, the main parts of the castle require admission fees.

The Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms is an underground museum that houses the wartime bunker that sheltered the UK government’s command center during WWII. The museum aims to highlight Sir Winston Churchill’s life and legacy, as well as showcase the underground headquarters that played a crucial role in the Allied victory. The admission fee for the museum is a bit steep, but visitors say it is worth it.

The London Dungeon

The London Dungeon is a tourist attraction that takes visitors on a journey through London’s gruesome history. It showcases various re-enactments of famous events like the Great Fire of London, the Jack the Ripper murders, and the plague epidemic, making it a go-to destination for history buffs. However, the London Dungeon charges an admission fee, and it is advisable to book tickets in advance to save money and avoid the queue.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich

The Royal Observatory Greenwich, located in the Greenwich Park, is a top tourist attraction that houses various collections related to astronomy and timekeeping. It also offers visitors the chance to stand astride the Prime Meridian of the World, where the eastern and western hemispheres meet. While it is free to visit the observatory, visitors may have to pay fees for some temporary exhibitions, special events, and planetarium shows.

The Science Museum

The Science Museum, which covers various branches of science and technology, is a top attraction for families traveling with kids. The museum houses several interactive exhibits, galleries, and hands-on displays that educate and entertain visitors of all ages. However, some events, exhibits, and shows at the Science Museum require admission fees.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum, located in South Kensington, is a fantastic museum that showcases various specimens and artifacts related to natural history, earth sciences, and biodiversity. The museum boasts mind-blowing exhibits like the dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and the life-size blue whale model. The Natural History Museum is free to enter, but some special exhibitions and temporary shows may require tickets.

The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a modern art museum located in Bankside that houses the UK’s national collection of contemporary art. The museum hosts various international and British artworks from the early 20th century until the present day. While the Tate Modern is mostly free to visit, some temporary exhibitions may charge admission fees. Additionally, some events and workshops require advance booking.

The V&A Museum

The V&A Museum, also known as the Victoria and Albert Museum, showcases over 5,000 years of art and design from various cultures and civilizations across the globe. The museum boasts a unique collection of fashion, textiles, ceramics, glass, jewelry, and furniture. While the museum is free to visit, some temporary exhibitions and shows may require ticket purchases.

What Museums are Not Free in London?

London is home to some of the world’s most amazing museums and institutions, showcasing priceless collections of art, history, and culture. Many of these museums are free, but some charge admission or require a donation. In this blog, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about what museums are not free in London.

What are the Most Popular Museums that Charge Admission in London?

The most popular museums that charge admission in London are the following:

1. British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world, and it is free to enter. However, some special exhibitions require an admission fee. Visitors can purchase tickets on the day of their visit or online in advance.

2. Tower of London

The Tower of London is an iconic landmark and former royal palace. Visitors can explore the history of the Tower, including the Crown Jewels, by purchasing an admission ticket at the venue or online in advance.

3. Madame Tussauds London

Madame Tussauds London is a wax museum featuring lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical figures. Admission tickets are available for purchase online or at the venue.

4. London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum is dedicated to the city’s transportation history, including its famous double-decker buses and iconic tube trains. Admission tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.

Are There any Museums in London that Are Always Free?

Yes, there are several museums in London that are always free to enter. Some of the most popular ones include the following:

1. National Gallery

The National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet.

2. Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a modern art museum located in a former power station. It features an impressive collection of international contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.

3. Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum, also known as the V&A, is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design. It showcases a vast range of exhibits, including ceramics, furniture, textiles, jewelry, and fashion.

4. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum showcases the earth’s natural history through impressive displays featuring fossils, rocks, and life-size models of dinosaurs.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit the British Museum?

The British Museum is free to enter, but some current exhibitions require an admission fee. Prices for special exhibitions vary depending on the exhibition, with discounts available for senior citizens, students, and children.

Can I Visit the Tower of London at Night?

Yes, you can visit the Tower of London at night as part of the Tower Twilight Tours program. This exclusive experience allows visitors to explore the Tower in the evening hours with a guided tour, followed by a glass of sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic drink.

What is the Age Limit for Children’s Tickets at Madame Tussauds London?

Children under the age of three are admitted to Madame Tussauds London for free. For children aged three and above, they must purchase a child’s admission ticket, which is valid for those aged up to 15 years.

What are the Opening Hours for the London Transport Museum?

The London Transport Museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, with the last admission at 5 pm. The museum is closed on 24, 25, and 26 of December each year.

How to Explore Non-Free Museums in London

London offers an array of world-renowned museums, featuring remarkable exhibitions and art collections, but not all of them come for free. In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to explore non-free museums in London.

Step 1: Choose the Museum to Visit

The first step in exploring non-free museums in London is to choose the museum you want to visit. London has a handful of paid museums with different entry prices. Therefore, it is essential to decide on the museum that interests you the most and is within your budget. Some popular paid museums in London are the Tate Modern, British Museum, National Gallery, and Victoria and Albert Museum.

Step 2: Check Ticket Prices and Discounts

Once you have decided on the museum to visit, the next step is to check the ticket prices and discounts available. Ticket prices can vary depending on the museum and the exhibition you want to visit. Some museums might offer a discounted price for students, senior citizens, or visitors who book their tickets online. Therefore, it is crucial to check the museum’s website or call their information line to know the exact prices and discounts.

Step 3: Plan Your Visit

After deciding on the museum and checking ticket prices, the next step is to plan your visit. Planning your visit involves deciding on the date and time you want to visit, how to get there, and how long you want to spend at the museum. Most museums are open daily, but it is essential to check the museum’s opening hours and a few pre-visit instructions on things to bring or leave behind.

Step 4: During Your Visit

Once you arrive at the museum, it is essential to keep the ticket safe as some museums may require visitors to show the ticket repeatedly. Before entering the museum, it is recommended to utilize the museum’s maps or apps to know the exhibition locations or events happening that day. It is also essential to respect the museum’s rules, such as photography restrictions, food and drink policies, and maintaining silence in specific areas.

Step 5: Make the Most of Your Visit

Lastly, it is essential to make the most of your paid museum visit. Explore the exhibitions that interest you the most, join tours or talks, and ask questions to the museum staff to get the most out of your experience. Most museums have shops or cafes where you can purchase souvenirs or relax after a long day of exploration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring non-free museums in London can be a great experience if planned efficiently. By choosing a museum, checking ticket prices and discounts, planning your visit, respecting the museum rules, and making the most of your visit, you can have a valuable and educational experience. London has some of the best museums in the world, and it’s worth every penny to explore them.