The British Museum Tours and Activities

The British Museum featuring a square or plaza, heritage architecture and a city
The British Museum
The British Museum showing interior views as well as a large group of people
The British Museum featuring a statue or sculpture and outdoor art
The British Museum which includes interior views


This colossal treasure chest houses some of the world’s most precious artefacts. Today, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world.

For art buffs and history enthusiasts, the British Museum offers a staggering display of diverse material from all corners of the world. With a collection of over 8 million artefacts, visitors often find it difficult to view everything on offer in one day. So, whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, this huge hub of information and history is definitely worth a visit.

The museum’s outstanding array of artefacts and precious items have been gradually accumulated over the years, beginning from wealthy British travellers at the height of the British Empire. The collection is still expanding today and includes some of the world’s greatest pieces, ranging from the Easter Island statue to the Head of Rameses. Visitors will be mesmerised as they stand before this wealth of history.

Take a step off the beaten track and discover the quieter galleries that celebrate Oceanic, Middle Eastern and Babylonian beginnings. As well as a highly factual hub of information, the British Museum recognises the importance of making History accessible. The museum offers numerous object handling sessions as well as a diverse range of activities throughout its galleries. Staff members are always on hand to provide visitors with additional information and answer any specific questions you may have.

The building’s Greek revival design, with its 44 beautifully crafted neoclassical columns is in itself a step back in time. Originally opened to the public in 1753, the museum has become one of the nation’s most visited attractions, with over 6 million visitors arriving each year. Walking through this immense building, visitors are brought to the spectacular Great Court. This is often a good opportunity to find your bearings before heading off to explore at leisure.

If you’re on a tight sightseeing, there are tours on offer throughout the day, lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This is the perfect way to discover the museum in a short space of time. Open daily throughout the year (except for 24, 25 and 26 December and 1 January), the museum is easily accessible via subway. The nearest underground stations are Tottenham Court Road, Holborn and Russell Square.

Plan a trip to see The British Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria
Corinthia London
The Langham, London

Tours & day trips

See all 407 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 72 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 64 activities

Shows & concerts

See all 26 activities

Popular places to visit


Top The British Museum Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Strand Palace Hotel

Strand Palace Hotel

4 out of 5
372 The Strand, London, England
Strand Palace Hotel
Royal National Hotel

Royal National Hotel

3 out of 5
38-51 Bedford Way, London, England
Royal National Hotel
Radisson Blu Hotel, London Tottenham Court Road

Radisson Blu Hotel, London Tottenham Court Road

4 out of 5
97 Great Russell Street, London, England
Radisson Blu Hotel, London Tottenham Court Road
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

3 out of 5
Great Windmill Street, London, England
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
The Z Hotel Holborn

The Z Hotel Holborn

3 out of 5
75 Kingsway, London, England
The Z Hotel Holborn
Radisson Blu Hotel, London Euston Square

Radisson Blu Hotel, London Euston Square

4 out of 5
130 Tottenham Court Road, London, England
Radisson Blu Hotel, London Euston Square
Middle Eight - Covent Garden - Preferred Hotels and Resorts

Middle Eight - Covent Garden - Preferred Hotels and Resorts

5 out of 5
66 Great Queen St, Covent Garden, London, England
Middle Eight - Covent Garden - Preferred Hotels and Resorts
President Hotel

President Hotel

3.5 out of 5
56-60 Guildford Street, London, England
President Hotel
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

4 out of 5
200 Westminster Bridge Road, London, England
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near The British Museum

During your visit to The British Museum, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by exploring the nearby theatres and art galleries. Don't miss the best markets and numerous shops offering unique souvenirs and local delicacies. With many more attractions around, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained and engaged in the heart of London.

Shopping

The Brunswick Centre, located 644m from The British Museum, offers a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. For a taste of local culture, Camden Markets is 3.2km away, bustling with unique finds. Selfridges, just 1.6km away, is perfect for iconic British gifts.

Recreation

Head to Hampstead Heath for a refreshing stroll amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and unwinding. For an energetic vibe, catch a thrilling event at the O2 Arena, just 9.7km away, or enjoy a delightful music concert at the ABBA Arena, located 8.0km from the museum.

Adventure

For an exhilarating adventure, take a ride on the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, located 9.7km from The British Museum, offering stunning views. Try your hand at climbing at Vertical Chill, only 966m away, or race at the Oasis Go-Kart Track, 4.8km from the museum.

Nightlife

The British Museum's nightlife buzzes with excitement. Just 322m away, Dominion Theatre offers captivating shows, while Lyceum Theatre, 966m away, enchants with its charm. At 644m, Prince Edward Theatre promises unforgettable performances, perfect for a memorable night out filled with culture and romance.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near The British Museum

When visiting The British Museum, there’s plenty to explore for every type of traveller. You can enjoy vibrant streets, picturesque piazzas, and urban parks, all catering to culture enthusiasts and families alike. With various attractions within walking distance, you'll find a selection of popular museums and iconic London sights to enhance your experience in this historic city.

  • Big Ben: This iconic clock tower, located 1.6km from The British Museum, is a symbol of London. Experience the grandeur of its Victorian architecture and the vibrant city atmosphere surrounding it, especially as it lights up at night.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Situated 1.1km away, this bustling street is famed for its neon lights and lively vibe. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the energetic spirit of the city.
  • Trafalgar Square: Just 1.3km from The British Museum, this historic piazza is a cultural hub. Enjoy the stunning fountains, impressive statues, and the National Gallery, all while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Best time to go to The British Museum

The best time to visit The British Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for The British Museum

If you're planning a visit to The British Museum, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation rates. Sundays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are pricier. Book about a month in advance or take advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tool to filter by budget and location, and look for package deals to save on flights and activities. Don't forget to explore free exhibitions at the museum itself for an enriching experience without spending a dime!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around The British Museum are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around The British Museum about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around The British Museum is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around The British Museum is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay near The British Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.