15+ Best Museums in London You Have to See in 2026

London, a city steeped in history, culture, and artistic expression, is home to some of the world's most iconic museums. Whether you’re a history aficionado, an art lover, or someone who enjoys a hands-on, interactive experience, London’s museums have something to offer everyone. From ancient artifacts to modern-day innovations, there is no shortage of exhibitions to explore. In 2024, these institutions are showcasing a range of new exhibits, renovations, and exciting events that make them even more worthwhile to visit.

If you’re planning to visit London or looking for some cultural inspiration in the city, here’s a guide to the 15+ best museums you absolutely have to see in 2026!

Best Museums in London You Have to See in 2026:

01. The British Museum:

Location: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London

The British Museum is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums. It offers an unparalleled collection of art and antiquities from around the world, spanning over two million years of human history. Notably, the museum has recently revamped its Egyptian galleries with a more immersive, multimedia experience for 2024.

Why Visit: Whether it’s the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, or the Parthenon sculptures, the British Museum’s collection is a testament to the world's diverse cultural history. 2024 also sees the introduction of new rotating exhibits focused on the history of different civilizations.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

02. The Tate Modern:

Location: Bankside, London

The Tate Modern is a powerhouse in the world of contemporary art. It’s housed in the former Bankside Power Station and boasts a collection of art from 1900 to the present day. Whether it’s abstract art, pop art, or the latest in conceptual works, Tate Modern continues to challenge perceptions and break new ground in the art world.

Why Visit: In 2024, the Tate Modern’s new exhibit, Revolutionizing Art: Modernist Masterpieces, offers a fresh look at 20th-century art movements like Cubism and Surrealism. With a stunning view of the Thames from its top floor and ever-changing exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

03. Natural History Museum:

Location: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London

A trip to the Natural History Museum offers a fascinating exploration of the natural world. The building itself is a work of art, with its Romanesque architecture and striking Central Hall, where you’ll encounter the famous dinosaur skeletons.

Why Visit: The Natural History Museum is introducing a new exhibit in 2024 called Earth’s Evolution, which takes visitors through millions of years of geological and environmental change. It's a must-visit for families and anyone fascinated by life on Earth.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:50 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

04. Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A):

Location: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London

The V&A is one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to decorative arts and design. With a rich collection spanning fashion, textiles, furniture, and more, the V&A is a treasure trove for anyone interested in design history.

Why Visit: In 2024, the V&A is featuring a new exhibition focused on sustainable fashion and its evolution over the last century. A great place to visit for design lovers and those who appreciate the intersection of art and function.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:45 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

05. Science Museum:

Location: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London

The Science Museum is one of the most engaging museums for visitors of all ages. Offering an interactive experience that spans everything from space exploration to robotics, it brings science to life in innovative ways.

Why Visit: 2024 marks the opening of a new exhibit dedicated to the Age of Space Exploration, showcasing the latest technologies and missions. The museum's hands-on activities are perfect for families with young children.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

06. The National Gallery:

Location: Trafalgar Square, London

One of the finest art galleries in the world, The National Gallery houses a collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to 19th centuries. It's a must-see for lovers of classical art, with works by masters like Van Gogh, Renoir, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Why Visit: In 2024, the National Gallery is showcasing a major exhibition on the art of Impressionism, bringing together works from the great Impressionist painters of the 19th century.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

07. The Design Museum:

Location: Kensington High Street, London

Focusing on the world of design, the Design Museum in London celebrates the creativity behind everything from fashion to architecture to industrial design.

Why Visit: For 2024, the museum is hosting an exciting new exhibit called Designing Tomorrow, which focuses on futuristic design concepts, from AI to sustainable architecture.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

08. Imperial War Museum London:

Location: Lambeth Rd, London

The Imperial War Museum offers a sobering and detailed look at the impact of war on people, nations, and societies throughout history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and the effects of conflict.

Why Visit: In 2024, the museum will unveil new exhibitions focusing on modern-day conflicts and their impact on civilians, with a specific focus on refugees and displaced persons.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

09. The Tate Britain:

Location: Millbank, London

Tate Britain is home to British art from 1500 to the present day. This museum houses works by some of the most important artists in British history, including J.M.W. Turner and William Blake.

Why Visit: With the British Masters 2024 exhibition, Tate Britain is set to showcase works that have shaped British identity, offering a new look at the country’s artistic heritage.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

10. The National Maritime Museum:

Location: Greenwich, London

Situated in the historic Royal Borough of Greenwich, this museum tells the story of Britain’s seafaring past and its pivotal role in global exploration and trade.

Why Visit: In 2024, the museum is opening The Sea and Us, an immersive exhibition highlighting the environmental impact of human activity on the oceans, addressing themes of conservation and sustainability.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

11. The Sherlock Holmes Museum:

Location: 221B Baker Street, London

For fans of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective, the Sherlock Holmes Museum is a must-see. It’s set in the iconic 221B Baker Street, the fictional residence of Sherlock Holmes.

Why Visit: For 2024, the museum is hosting a series of events to celebrate the life and works of Sherlock Holmes, including exhibitions that delve deeper into the detective’s methods and fictional world.

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: £15

12. Museum of London:

Location: London Wall, London

The Museum of London offers a fascinating journey through the city’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Why Visit: With the London Through the Ages exhibit launching in 2024, the museum offers new perspectives on how the city evolved over centuries, touching on key events that shaped its current landscape.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

13. The Horniman Museum and Gardens:

Location: Forest Hill, London

This quirky and eclectic museum features an impressive natural history collection, along with musical instruments and cultural exhibits.

Why Visit: The Horniman’s Futures of Nature exhibit in 2024 explores how we can preserve the planet’s biodiversity for future generations. It’s an educational and thought-provoking visit for families and environmentalists.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

14. The Wellcome Collection:

Location: Euston Rd, London

The Wellcome Collection is a unique museum that explores the intersection of medicine, science, and art. It delves into the human experience through exhibits that range from the history of medicine to philosophical reflections on health and well-being.

Why Visit: In 2024, the Wellcome Collection will unveil an exhibition called The Body: A History of Healing, which will explore the evolution of medicine, from ancient healing practices to modern breakthroughs. It's a great place to visit for those interested in health, science, and the history of medicine.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

15. The Museum of Childhood:

Location: Cambridge Heath Rd, London

Part of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Museum of Childhood offers a deep dive into the history of toys, games, and childhood itself. It’s a fun and educational experience for families, featuring interactive exhibits that showcase the evolution of children’s toys and playtime across centuries.

Why Visit: In 2024, the Museum of Childhood will feature an exciting exhibit, Playtime Through the Ages, showcasing the evolution of toys and games from historical artifacts to the latest tech-driven innovations. It’s a fantastic spot for families with children, as well as those interested in childhood development and history.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

16. The London Transport Museum:

Location: Covent Garden, London

Located in the heart of Covent Garden, the London Transport Museum is dedicated to the city’s iconic public transport system, showcasing everything from horse-drawn carriages to modern-day trains, buses, and the famous London Underground.

Why Visit: The London in Motion exhibit, launching in 2024, will take you on a journey through the history of the city's transport system, highlighting key innovations and the people who made them possible. Visitors can also explore the history of London’s famous red buses, black cabs, and the Tube.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: £18 (adult), £9 (child)

17. The Museum of London Docklands:

Location: No. 1 Warehouse, Canary Wharf, London

The Museum of London Docklands offers a fascinating look at the history of the River Thames, the docklands, and their impact on the development of London. It’s a museum that highlights the maritime history of the city, including the trade routes and the stories of the people who lived and worked around the river.

Why Visit: In 2024, the museum is introducing a new exhibit called Rivers of Trade, which explores the economic and cultural exchanges that shaped London’s docklands from the 16th century to the present day.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

18. The British Library:

Location: Euston Rd, London

While not a traditional museum, the British Library is one of the world’s largest and most important research libraries. Its permanent exhibitions and temporary displays offer insight into the evolution of writing, literature, and knowledge.

Why Visit: In 2024, the British Library’s Treasures of the Written Word exhibition will showcase rare manuscripts, books, and letters from figures such as Shakespeare, the Brontë sisters, and Charles Dickens, alongside more modern works.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)

Tips for Visiting Museums in London in 2024:

Plan Ahead for Busy Times: Many of London's most popular museums can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. To avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or during weekdays. Also, check if the museum offers special “late-night” events or extended hours for a quieter experience.
Look for Special Exhibitions: Many museums feature temporary exhibits that require an additional ticket. Check the museum's website before your visit to find out about any special exhibitions. These exhibits often offer unique experiences that are worth the extra cost.
Take Advantage of Free Museums: Several museums in London offer free Entry to their permanent collections, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern. Keep in mind that while the main exhibits are often free, some special exhibits may charge an entry fee.
Use Public Transportation: London’s public transportation system is one of the best ways to get around. Many of the museums are located near major tube stations, and buses provide easy access to the city’s attractions. Consider purchasing an Oyster Card or a travel pass for unlimited travel throughout the city.
Stay for the Interactive Experiences: Many of the museums in London, like the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, feature interactive exhibits. Take your time to explore these engaging activities, especially if you're visiting with children. These hands-on experiences make learning fun and accessible.

London is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world for museum-goers. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations, modern art, or scientific discoveries, there’s a museum in this vibrant city that will pique your interest. In 2024, these museums are offering even more exciting exhibitions, fresh perspectives, and immersive experiences to ensure your visit is unforgettable.

So, whether you’re planning a trip to London or you’re a local exploring the city’s cultural gems, these 15+ museums should be at the top of your list. From the historical grandeur of the British Museum to the innovative exhibits at the Tate Modern, London’s museums offer something for every type of visitor.

Don't forget to plan ahead, check out the special exhibitions, and enjoy everything that London’s museum scene has to offer in 2024!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

01. Question: What are the best free museums in London?

Answer: The British Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery, and Natural History Museum are some of the best museums in London that offer free entry to their permanent collections.

02. Question: What are the best family-friendly museums in London?

Answer: The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Museum of Childhood are fantastic family-friendly options. They offer interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences for children of all ages.

03. Question: Which museums are open late in London?

Answer: Many of London’s museums, like the Tate Modern and the British Museum, offer late-night openings on certain days. Check the museum’s website for specific details about extended hours.

04. Question: Are there any new museums opening in London in 2024?

Answer: Keep an eye out for new exhibitions at the Natural History Museum and Science Museum in 2024. These museums are constantly updating their exhibits and offering new perspectives on science and history.