The British Museum

The British Museum featuring interior views
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Originally created as a “cabinet of curiosities,” Britain’s oldest museum has grown into a treasure house of humanity’s greatest achievements.

With a collection of nearly 8 million artifacts gathered from every continent, it’s unlikely even the most seasoned museum-goer can absorb the British Museum in a single day. But don’t let the museum’s size deter you even if you only have a few hours. It’s well worth the visit.

The museum’s vast collection was originally built up from the donated and acquired collections of well-traveled, wealthy British adventurers during the heyday of the British Empire. Continually expanding to this day, the collections are now arranged along geographical lines. Marvel at monumental relics like the mysterious Easter Island statue and Elgin Marbles. And, join history lovers from around the world as you stand before the Rosetta Stone and the Head of Rameses.

Step beyond the must-see attractions and explore the quieter galleries that celebrate Oceanic, Middle Eastern and Babylonian beginnings. Hold history in your fingertips in one of the many object handling sessions throughout the various galleries. There’s no need to make reservation in advance, simply drop in to the “hands-on” rooms where staff are available to provide information and answer questions. For those interested in politics, don’t miss the Reading Room where Karl Marx penned The Communist Manifesto.

Merely walking up the broad steps and through the 44 neoclassical columns of the museum building is an experience in itself. Once inside, use the Great Court as a navigation point to the museum’s major galleries. Since its opening in the 1750s, the British Museum has consistently been the country’s most visited museum. It averages 6 million visitors annually and allows research access to its highly sought-after stock of relics.

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed or pressed for time, take one of the free, 30 to 40-minute eyeOpener tours held throughout the day. The museum has cafés, picnic areas and offers fun, educational giveaways for children. The museum is open daily, excluding December 24, 25 and 26, and January 1.

The British Museum is located near the Bloomsbury Gardens and Russell Square Gardens. The nearest Underground stations are Tottenham Court Road, Holborn and Russell Square.

Compare 16,567 hotels close to The British Museum with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
3 out of 5
Great Windmill Street, London, England, W1D 7DH
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $108 per night from Apr 16 to Apr 17
$108
per night
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Stay at this 3-star hotel in London. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the clean rooms and the overall value in ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,774 reviews)
"Excelent! Value for money"

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2023

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
President Hotel
President Hotel
3.5 out of 5
56-60 Guildford Street, London
The price is $164 per night from Apr 2 to Apr 3
$164
per night
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in London. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, and onsite parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the comfy rooms ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,310 reviews)
Enjoyable overnighter
"It was good, close enough to St. Pancras which was where we were headed. Literally a 3-minute walk from Russell Square tube. Nice pubs/takeaways nearby too."

Reviewed on Mar 30, 2023

President Hotel
The Strand Palace Hotel
The Strand Palace Hotel
4 out of 5
372 The Strand, London, England, WC2R 0JJ
The price is $147 per night from Apr 2 to Apr 3
$147
per night
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in London. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,851 reviews)
"Great service at breakfast,very busy but exceptional handling by staff"

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2023

The Strand Palace Hotel
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.

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Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
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3 out of 5
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Bedford Hotel
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City Sleeper at Royal National Hotel
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