London · Bloomsbury
British Museum
Two million years of human history, from the Rosetta Stone to the Egyptian mummies. Entry is free, and you have to choose what to see, because it is huge.
- 3 h
- Free
- Booking advised
- Bloomsbury
Data checked on October 4, 2026
The museum opened in 1759 and holds around eight million objects, of which only a small share is on display. The Great Court, under its glass roof, is the entrance hall and the best place to get your bearings. Most visitors go first to Egypt, Greece and Rome, then choose one more region rather than trying to see everything.
What to look for
- The Rosetta Stone
- The Parthenon sculptures
- The Egyptian mummies
- The Lewis Chessmen
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Thursday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Friday | 10:00 am–8:30 pm | |
| Saturday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Sunday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm |
Open daily 10:00 to 17:00, and until 20:30 on Fridays. Closed 24 to 26 December.
Source: The British Museum, checked October 4, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free. Entry to the permanent collection is free. Special exhibitions need a separate ticket.
A free timed ticket is recommended. It gives priority entry in busy periods, and queues are likely without one.
Getting there
Tottenham Court Road station (Elizabeth, Central and Northern lines) and Russell Square (Piccadilly line) are both a short walk away.
Tip
Pick three or four galleries before you go. On Fridays the evening hours are calmer.