London isn’t just a city—it’s a living museum of culture, history, and creativity. Around every corner, there’s a story waiting to be told, but nowhere is that magic more concentrated than London’s world-class museums.

As essential as seeing Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, eating fish and chips, or getting a curry in the East End, no trip to London would be complete without a visit to one of its fantastic  museums. But there are nearly 200 London museums (!) to see, so were do you begin?

From ancient artifacts to cutting-edge exhibitions, here are the must-see museums in London that make the city a cultural treasure trove.

Best Museums in London for Art Lovers

The British Museum

Definitely considered to be one of the top museums in London—and a fixture on the list of the most prestigious museums in the world—there was no way our list could not include the British Museum as one of the best museums in London.

From the moment you walk inside and are greeted by the Great Court, you can tell that this is no ordinary place.

Highlights of the British Museum:

• The glass ceiling that covers the 2-acre courtyard, the largest covered square not only in London but also in the world, is a marvel in itself. 
• There are three floors of countless wonders from all over the Earth. Our picks include the Rosetta Stone, the dynamic Lion Hunt carvings from the Assyrian Empire, and the Sutton-Hoo helmet. 
• The Egyptian section on the ground floor is deserving of a special mention, too. Containing objects that date back to 10,000 BCE, it’s truly outstanding. And, when you cast your eyes on the imposing statues of Ramses III or Amenhotep III, you can understand why their citizens regarded them as gods.  

A map can be downloaded on their website for you to plan ahead, but trust us, it is normal to leave feeling like you missed something.   

Insider’s Tip: Weekdays are understandably less busy than the weekend. But evenings, Tuesdays, Sundays, and sunny days are the best for fewer crowds. Also don’t be put off by the lines on a busy day, as the security check lines move fast. 

Lastly, when there are special exhibits, the first and last weeks are extra busy, so check online to see if your trip coincides so you know what to expect. 

Traveler’s tip: As you explore London’s best museums, you’ll be sure to work up an appetite. Most of the museums have a cafe or restaurant inside. But, if you want to add a must-do to your itinerary to see and do all things British, check out our list where to find the best fish and chips in London.

The Victoria & Albert Museum

In the Victoria & Albert Museum, London has one of the world’s most unique and enjoyable museums. It really is difficult to explain the extent of the splendors on display in what is the 9th largest museum in the world.

Founded in 1852, Prince Albert sought to capitalize on the public and industrial interest in the arts after the Great Exhibition, the year before. As a result, the museum’s focus is not so much on one facet of the arts, but on everything that can inspire creative minds. 

In how many other museums will you be able to see a priceless sculpture from Rodin and intricately designed door handles given their flowers, to the same degree?

Highlights of the Victoria & Albert Museum:

• The cast courts where you can be transported around the globe and see to-scale replicas of some of the world’s greatest artistic achievements, all in one room. 
• Everything from Michelangelo’s David, the Pórtico de la Gloria from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, and many other amazing works of art are here. 
• The morbid but arresting Tipu’s Tiger, Constable’s landscapes, and a Fashion Gallery that spans five centuries of ever-changing styles and tastes. 

That being said, while having a plan before getting into some of the other museums is an advantage, part of the joy of visiting the V&A is getting lost in its vast and unparalleled collection. So give yourself time to take it all in. 

The extraordinary collection and mixture of arts, besides its astonishing size, are some of the reasons why we consider it one of the best museums to visit in London, as you’ll surely discover something amazing to remember.

Insider’s tip: Did you know that the Victoria & Albert Museum also has a sister museum dedicated to educating and inspiring children and young people? Find out more information on our list of Top London Attractions for Families.

Top Museums in London for Families

The Natural History Museum

If you were to ask most Londoners for their favorite museum, the Natural History Museum would probably win out. Whether it is because of the memories of their exciting first visit as a child, or the chance to be reminded of the marvels our planet has to offer, as an adult, this is one museum you can’t afford to miss. Hence why we consider it one of the best museums in London, for adults and children alike.

All the delights are housed in a gorgeous gothic-meets-romanesque building, which is worth the visit, alone. The splendor of the main Hintze Hall evokes in you exactly what the architect Alfred Waterhouse wanted: that you feel like you are about to enter, “a cathedral to nature.” 

Highlights of the Natural History Museum:

• Hintze Hall & the Blue Whale Skeleton – the museum’s iconic entrance hall with a massive blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling is a must-see.
• Dinosaurs Gallery is home to the famous animatronic T. rex and real fossilized skeletons — one of the museum’s most popular attractions.
• The Minerals and Gem Collection includes a stunning displays of gems, crystals, and meteorites. Don’t miss the Aurora Pyramid of Hope—a collection of naturally colored diamonds.
• Earth Hall & the Escalator Through the Globe lets you enter through a giant glowing Earth model and ride an escalator through it.

Everything, from dinosaurs, dodos, and diamonds, amounting to a staggering 80 million objects is spread out across four zones. A family favorite is the dinosaurs, of which there is a substantial collection of not only fossils but also to-scale models, some of which move, so be prepared! 

If that wasn’t enough, you can also see and touch a real meteor, as well as experience a real-life simulation of what an earthquake feels like. 

While the Natural History Museum, like all major London museums, is free, long queues are common. Avoid the long lines by booking online before, especially if you decide to go on the weekend. 

The Wellcome Collection

Our last suggestion for museums to visit is not an obvious choice. It’s an underrated gem that will leave you wanting more. 

While most museums are focused on the results of human achievement or discovery, the charm of The Wellcome Collection is that it is mainly centered on the human condition itself. 

In the past, this has included exhibitions focused on sleep, joy, the effects of dirt, tranquility, and the psychology of magic.

Highlights of the Wellcome Collection:

• Being Human Gallery is a mind-blowing exhibit exploring genetics, consciousness, environmental crisis, and the human body.
• Medicine Man is a fascinating selection from Sir Henry Wellcome’s vast and eccentric collection of medical artifacts. Perfect for budding doctors!
• Wellcome Library is a hidden gem for those interested in the history of medicine, science, and health. Open to the public, it’s a great, quiet place for reading or research.
• The Reading Room offers a comfy lounge with books, comfy seating, and objects you can touch.

Found in the transient Euston Road, the foundation of the Wellcome Collection comes from the private collection of prominent pharmacist and entrepreneur Henry Wellcome, who lived in the early 20th century. 

His obsession for collecting anything related to health and medicine meant that the collection houses an extensive assortment of medical objects from around the world, which make up the basis for the collection as a whole. 

You’ll be transported around the world to see how, over time, different cultures handled everything from childbirth to taking out teeth, reminding you why you should feel lucky that you live when you do!

We also must mention that the Wellcome Collection boasts one of the most interesting book shops/gift shops in any museum. It also has a beautiful reading room, which is a perfect place to spend a rainy day in London. If you want to snuggle up with a book to escape a downpour, for a few hours, this is the place. 

FAQ: Best Museums in London

What are the must see museums in London for first-time visitors?

Some of the must-see museums in London include the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. These iconic London museums offer world-class collections and are perfect for all ages.

Are London museums free to enter?

Many of the top museums in London, including the British Museum and the National Gallery, offer free general admission. However, special exhibitions or events may require a ticket.

Which London museum is best for families?

The Science Museum and the Natural History Museum are among the best museums in London for families, with plenty of interactive exhibits and kid-friendly activities.

What are the most famous museums in London?

Famous museums in London include the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Each London museum offers a unique glimpse into history, art, and culture.

How much time should I spend at a London museum?

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours at major London museums, but you could easily spend a whole day exploring the larger institutions.

What is the Best Way to See London’s Top Museums and Landmarks?

We hope you enjoyed our list of London’s best museums and feel inspired to explore them yourself. That said, unless you’re dedicating several weeks to your visit, it’s nearly impossible to see all of the city’s famous museums in one trip.

Our advice? Take a thoughtful, paced approach. Choose two or three museums that interest you most, and plan what you’d like to see in each one. As for visiting every museum in London—well, consider that a goal for future adventures.

Yes, touring all of London’s top museums is a nearly impossible task, at least while on a single trip. And of course, there is so much more to see in this vibrant city. Why not take the pressure off by checking out our London in a Day Tour, so you can see London’s main sights in one hit?