See the development of human culture on every continent from prehistory to the present at The British Museum. The museum houses one of the largest collections of works in the world, some 8 million. You'll encounter many significant items here, including the Rosetta Stone, the Magna Carta, and the Parthenon Frieze. The museum is broken into various departments, each covering a specific place and time, such as ancient Egypt and Sudan, or a theme, such as coins and medals. The works cover a broad spectrum of styles, from ancient carvings, sculptures, stoneware, and gold metalwork to prints and drawings from famous Renaissance artists. You won't have time to cover all the museum's collections in a single visit, so you should choose subjects that interest you and focus on them. A map of the museum helps you navigate efficiently. Pick up a copy at an information point inside, or download a digital one to your smartphone or tablet ahead of time. If you're not sure which galleries to visit, you can join a highlights tour. Departing twice a day every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, these guided tours show you the museum's most important pieces. Book this tour online or at the information desk in the front court. If specific galleries interest you, try to catch one of the free daily Eye-Opener tours. Galleries host one of these 30- to 40-minute tours per day, giving you a deeper historical understanding of specific periods and regions. Arrange to visit The British Museum and other attractions in London using our London trip tool .
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Tours to The British Museum
The British Museum Reviews
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This is must-see. We recommend the audio guide even if English is your first language. It's helpful when you approach exhibits to hear and learn a bit more than what is available to read. Take your ti... more »
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Was not happy having to be put in a queue then made to feel crap been asked to make a contribution, I am a British tax payer who no doubt have paid a hell of a lot into the system. The tourists should... more »
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On entering the inner court yard, you're greeted by natural light through the frosted transparent roof. The lobby is cavernous and airy. It thus sets you in the mood to embark on an exciting journey through time. There's no entrance fee. But, please be generous ya. Give at least £5 as donation and £2 for the map. Come on, you can do that! Live guide and Audio guide are available. Ask at information. Exhibits are arranged according to certain periods and beautiful laid out! So much history! I came away knowing so much stuff. My favourite exhibits are the pastries laid out invitingly at the Museum's cafe!
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Love that it's free! We spent hours there and still didn't see everything! Definitely something you could spend most of the day in! Fun for the whole family! You can learn more in a day here than you can in all the history classes. The diversity in exhibits were really interesting as well, truly something for everyone. This is a place we will definitely visit again!
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