London’s national museums and many smaller galleries let you explore their main collections without paying admission. The difficult part is choosing where to go.

Which London museums are free?

Major free choices include the British Museum, National Gallery, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A, Tate Modern, Tate Britain and Imperial War Museum London.

Smaller options can be easier for a short visit. Try the Bank of England Museum for money, the Grant Museum for zoology, Sir John Soane’s Museum for an unusual historic interior or London Museum Docklands for the history of the Thames and east London.

Free permanent collection or completely free?

At many national museums, entry to the permanent collection is free but temporary exhibitions cost money. A free visit can still fill several hours without adding a paid exhibition.

Some smaller museums and galleries describe general admission as free, although they may charge for events, talks or particular displays. Always check the official visitor page before travelling.

Do you need to book a free museum?

Some popular museums recommend or require a free timed ticket during busy periods. Booking can reduce uncertainty but does not always remove the entrance queue or security check.

If you prefer flexibility, filter the finder for places where advance booking is not usually needed. Arrive earlier on weekends and during school holidays.

Make a museum day cheaper

  • Carry a refillable water bottle
  • Check the museum’s bag and food rules
  • Use free cloakrooms only where clearly offered
  • Bring lunch or eat away from the busiest tourist streets
  • Group museums in the same area
  • Avoid crossing London merely to fill a short gap

South Kensington combines the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and V&A. Greenwich combines the National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House. Trafalgar Square has the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery.

Free museum questions

Are London museums free for tourists?
The free general admission and permanent collections listed in our finder are not restricted to London residents. Paid exhibitions and activities have their own rules.
Do I have to donate?
No. A suggested donation is optional. Museums value donations, but you can enter a genuinely free collection without paying.
Are special exhibitions included?
Usually not. Check whether the display you want is part of the free collection or requires a separate paid ticket.
Which free museum is best for children?
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Young V&A, Horniman Museum and RAF Museum are strong starting points. Choose based on the child’s interests and the amount of walking they can manage.

Information checked

The finder was checked on 19 July 2026 using museums’ official visitor pages and Visit London’s current free museum guidance. Opening and booking arrangements can change.