A World-Class Free Offer
One of the best things about visiting the UK is the extraordinary number of world-class museums and galleries that are completely free to enter. This policy, supported by government funding, means you can visit collections that rival anything in the world without spending a penny on admission.
Free Museums in London
- British Museum: One of the world's greatest museums, covering two million years of human history
- National Gallery: Over 2,300 paintings spanning the thirteenth to the twentieth century
- Tate Modern: International modern and contemporary art in a converted power station
- Natural History Museum: Spectacular building housing dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and wildlife exhibits
- Science Museum: Interactive exhibits covering space, technology, medicine, and engineering
- Victoria and Albert Museum: The world's leading museum of art, design, and performance
- Imperial War Museum: Powerful exhibitions on conflict from World War One to the present
Free Museums Outside London
- National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh: Scottish history, science, and world cultures
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow: Outstanding art and natural history in a grand building
- National Museum Cardiff: Art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Tate Liverpool: Modern and contemporary art on the Albert Dock waterfront
- Ashmolean Museum, Oxford: The world's oldest public museum
- Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge: Fine art and antiquities in an elegant building
Tips for Museum Visits
- While entry is free, temporary exhibitions often charge admission
- Voluntary donations are appreciated and help keep museums free
- Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Major museums are too large for one visit — pick highlights in advance
- Many museums offer free guided tours and audio guides
Start Exploring
Get your UK ETA and take advantage of the UK's extraordinary free cultural offering.