EUROPE LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM

The British Museum

A free-entry museum spanning human history, from ancient objects to contemporary encounters.

What to expect

Build a slow indoor visit around a few galleries or the Great Court. The collection is large enough to reward a focused route, and a free timed entry slot can make a busy weekend easier to plan.

Free entry

Before you go

Entry and costs

General entry and the permanent collection are free. Special exhibitions and events may have separate charges; advance general-entry tickets are free and recommended for priority entry.

Visitor notes

Open daily 10:00–17:00, until 20:30 on Fridays; last entry is 16:45 (20:15 Fridays). Closed 24–26 December. Walk-up entry is available subject to capacity, and galleries may close at short notice.

Opening hours

Date-specific hours are not available for this place. Check the official page for the day you plan to visit.

Good for

Rainy dayHistoryArchitecture

Official sourceThe British Museum — plan your visit

Checked 31 October 2026. Hours, entry rules and access can change; check this page again before you visit.

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