The British Museum
Two million years of human history, free to explore
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
2–4 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free via main entrance
Washrooms
On-site with baby change
Food
Cafés and restaurant on-site
Parking
No on-site parking; public transport recommended
Booking
Free entry, no booking required
Parent Effort
Medium (supervision in crowds)
A world-class museum where families can wander through ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome for free. The sheer scale means you can dip in for an hour or make a full day of it, with plenty to spark curiosity in every age group.
About This Place
The British Museum offers a fascinating journey through two million years of human history, making it an enriching experience for the whole family. With free entry, you can explore renowned exhibits like the Rosetta Stone, Elgin Marbles, and Egyptian mummies. Family visitors can enjoy special resources like activity backpacks and explorer trails to engage the kids. Open daily, this iconic museum is a perfect educational and cultural outing located in the heart of London.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Thursday
- 10:00 – 17:00
- Friday
- 10:00 – 20:30
- Saturday – Sunday
- 10:00 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Free world-famous treasures
See the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and the Parthenon sculptures without spending a penny.
Hands-on family trails
Pick up free activity backpacks and explorer trails designed to engage children with the collections.
All-weather escape
The vast indoor galleries make this a perfect rainy-day refuge in central London.
Accessible for everyone
Step-free access, lifts to all floors and accessible washrooms make visits straightforward with prams or wheelchairs.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Bag checks
- All bags are checked on entry; large suitcases are not permitted.
- Food policy
- Picnicking is not allowed in the galleries; food must be eaten in designated café areas.
- Photography
- Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use in most galleries.
- Crowds
- Weekends and school holidays are busiest; arrive early for a quieter experience.
- Nearest Tube
- Tottenham Court Road (Northern/Central lines) and Holborn (Piccadilly/Central lines) are closest.
- Lockers
- Small lockers are available near the main entrance for coats and bags.
Kid Fit by Age
Spacious pram-friendly galleries; baby change facilities available.
Activity backpacks and interactive displays help little ones engage.
Explorer trails and hands-on activities make ancient history exciting.
Perfect age for connecting with mummies, armour and ancient civilisations.
Deep collections and audio guides offer rich independent exploration.
World-class artefacts and cultural significance appeal strongly to older visitors.
Insider Tips
Head straight to the Egyptian sculpture rooms (Gallery 4) first thing in the morning before the tour groups arrive.
Pick up a free 'Under 5s Explorer Trail' from the Families Desk in the Great Court.
The Great Court's glass roof makes it a lovely spot for a rest even if you skip the galleries.
Download the free British Museum audio guide app before you arrive to save queuing at the desk.
- •Large crowds at peak times; keep children within sight near the main entrances and busy galleries.
- •Some historic objects are displayed without barriers; remind children not to touch.
- •The Great Court can be echoey and overwhelming for noise-sensitive children.
- •Emergency exits are clearly marked; ask staff if you need a quiet space.
- •Step-free access via the main entrance on Great Russell Street.
- •Lifts to all floors; accessible toilets and baby-change facilities on every level.
- •Large-print guides and audio-description tours available from the Information Desk.
- •The museum can be crowded and echoey; quieter visiting times are weekday mornings.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are the quietest time to visit, especially during term time. Weekends, school holidays and rainy days draw the biggest crowds, so arrive at opening time if visiting then.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes — the museum covers a huge area.
- check_boxA lightweight jacket or layers — some galleries are kept cool for object conservation.
- check_boxA water bottle — refill stations are available, though drinks cannot be consumed in galleries.
- check_boxA small bag or backpack — large luggage is not permitted inside.
- check_boxA fully charged phone — the free Wi-Fi lets you access the museum's digital guides and maps.
Location
Address
Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
Phone
+442073238000
Make it a half-day
View All London
Last checked: 2026