Design Museum Tours

Design Museum featuring interior views
Design Museum which includes signage, art and interior views
Design Museum showing interior views, signage and art
Design Museum featuring interior views
Design Museum which includes art and interior views as well as an individual femail


Get an insight into the world of modern design innovations via a permanent exhibition and temporary displays curated by renowned international artists and designers.

While in London, plan to visit the Design Museum, which celebrates the history of modern design, the people behind it and its impact on society. Browse exhibitions by famous designers, which cover everything from architecture and cinema to fashion, furniture and transport. Established by English designer Sir Terrance Conran in 1989, the Design Museum moved to its current location in 2016. In 2018 it won the European Museum of the Year Award.

Start at the Designer Maker User permanent exhibition, where over 1,000 artifacts from the 20th and 21st centuries introduce the roles of the designer, manufacturer and user in design development. Find exhibits related to building design, engineering, information technology and other disciplines. Among the exhibition’s highlights is the London 2012 Olympic torch. Children will have fun pretending to be a designer by playing with puzzles and 3-D kits.

Temporary exhibitions take place on the ground floor and champion the life’s works of designers from around the world. They include the museum founder Terrance Conran, pioneering engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and iconic furniture designer Eileen Gray. See into the minds of influential people such as filmmaker Stanley Kubrick and motor racing entrepreneur Enzo Ferrari.

Talks and creative workshops present the opportunity to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the design industry. Visually impaired visitors can take part in multi-sensory tours of select exhibitions. Bring the children to family-friendly craft-making activities. In June the museum is a venue for The Great Exhibition Road Festival, which brings together art and science in South Kensington.

Located on Kensington High Street, the museum is easy to reach by using London’s public transportation network. High Street Kensington underground station and Kensington Olympia train terminal are both about a 10-minute walk away.

The Design Museum is open daily, except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Admission is free to the permanent exhibition. Purchase tickets for the temporary exhibitions in person or in advance via the museum’s official website. Discounts are available when visiting two temporary exhibitions on the same day.

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Best Lodging Options Near Design Museum

Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington

Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington

4 out of 5
Scarsdale Place, Kensington, London, England
Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington
Central Park Hotel

Central Park Hotel

3 out of 5
49/67 Queensborough Terrace, London, England
Central Park Hotel
Point A Kensington Olympia

Point A Kensington Olympia

3.5 out of 5
42-48 West Cromwell Road, London, England
Point A Kensington Olympia
Brit Hotels Earls Court

Brit Hotels Earls Court

2 out of 5
43-45 Longridge Road, London, England
Brit Hotels Earls Court
Hilton London Olympia

Hilton London Olympia

4 out of 5
380 Kensington High Street, London, England
Hilton London Olympia
Best Western Kensington Olympia Hotel

Best Western Kensington Olympia Hotel

3 out of 5
Matheson Road,25-27, London, England
Best Western Kensington Olympia Hotel
Royal Garden Hotel

Royal Garden Hotel

5 out of 5
2-24 Kensington High Street, London, England
Royal Garden Hotel
Premier Inn London Hammersmith - Talgarth Road

Premier Inn London Hammersmith - Talgarth Road

3 out of 5
181 Talgarth Road, Hammersmith, London, England
Premier Inn London Hammersmith - Talgarth Road
Holiday Inn London - Kensington High St. by IHG

Holiday Inn London - Kensington High St. by IHG

4 out of 5
Wrights Lane, Kensington, London, England
Holiday Inn London - Kensington High St. by IHG
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 Design Museum

At the Design Museum in London, you can explore a variety of engaging activities such as art exhibitions, theater performances, and nearby shopping opportunities. The museum is conveniently located within walking distance of several other renowned museums, making it easy to enjoy a full day of cultural experiences. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant creative scene surrounding this iconic destination.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Design Museum, explore Portobello Road Market, only 0.8 miles away, for unique finds. Westfield London Shopping Centre, 1 mile away, offers a variety of shops and entertainment. Harrods is 2 miles away for luxury shopping, if you're up for a drive.

Recreation

At Wembley Stadium, immerse yourself in the excitement of sports events while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Wimbledon Tennis Club offers a luxurious experience with its elegant surroundings and top-notch facilities. For relaxation, Hampstead Heath provides a serene escape with its beautiful landscapes, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the IFS Cloud Greenwich Peninsula Station, a thrilling cable car gondola ride 9 miles from the Design Museum, offering stunning views. For climbing enthusiasts, The Castle Climbing Centre, located 6 miles away, provides an adventurous indoor climbing experience. Enjoy water sports at Back of Beyond Adventures, also 6 miles distant.

Nightlife

After exploring the Design Museum, enjoy a show at Eventim Apollo or London Palladium Theatre for a mix of culture and entertainment. For a cozy movie date, catch a film at Electric Cinema, where romance meets the big screen, all within a mile or two.

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

Find the best attractions near Design Museum

When visiting the Design Museum in London, immerse yourself in culture and family-friendly experiences. Explore nearby attractions like the British Museum, or enjoy leisurely walks through the surrounding urban parks and vibrant piazzas. Whether you're interested in design or simply enjoying the city, there's plenty to see and do around this iconic museum.

  • Hyde Park: Experience the tranquility of Hyde Park, an expansive urban oasis perfect for family outings, picnics, or leisurely walks. With its beautiful gardens, serene lakes, and vibrant outdoor activities, it offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Buckingham Palace: Visit the iconic Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Immerse yourself in its rich history and stunning architecture, and don't miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a cultural spectacle that showcases British traditions.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Explore Piccadilly Circus, a lively street known for its bright lights and bustling atmosphere. This vibrant area is a hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining, making it a must-see for anyone looking to experience the city's dynamic energy.

Best time to go to Design Museum

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

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No RainMostly 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 CloudyAverageSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Design Museum

To save on your visit to the Design Museum in London, plan your trip between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Book your stay about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia for discounts. Opt for Sunday stays, which are usually cheaper. Utilize public transport for budget-friendly travel and consider walking, as the area is pedestrian-friendly. Combine hotel stays with flights and activities for better deals, and join Expedia's One Key membership for additional savings and perks.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Design 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Design Museum is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Design Museum is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Design Museum is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Design Museum with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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