Visiting the British Museum
A cultural landmark in the United Kingdom
The British Museum, a museum of human history and culture located in London, stands as a premier destination in the British capital and one of the finest museums on the planet. Its neoclassical facade and the striking glass roof designed by architect Norman Foster, the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, have made it exceptionally famous, alongside the high caliber of its collections and illustrious former regulars like Charles Dickens.
Expanded steadily over the years, it remains the top tourist attraction in the United Kingdom, drawing over 6 million annual visitors. The construction of a new global conservation and exhibition center, complete with dedicated temporary gallery spaces, was recently added to the complex.
7 million objects of art and history
Founded in the 18th century, it originally housed the private collections of doctor Sir Hans Sloane, Captain Cook, and diplomats William Hamilton and Lord Elgin. Today, 7 million objects are preserved here. Seeing everything in a single day is impossible. Download the floor plan from the museum website or pick one up at the front desk ($2.70*) to map out your route. Eleven must-see works are highlighted, including the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the mystery of hieroglyphics. If you are visiting with children, an audio guide featuring interactive activities has been specially designed for them ($4.70*).
You will enter through the main entrance on Great Russell Street. Galleries 1 and 2 on your right host ticketed temporary exhibitions. On the ground floor, you will find the departments of ancient Greece and Rome, ancient Egypt, Asia, the Middle East, North America, and Mexico. On the upper floor, an extensive collection dedicated to Europe and Britain awaits. Remarkable indeed. The lower level houses a substantial African collection, plus a convenient picnic area well suited for large families and school groups.
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00-17:30 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00-17:30 |
| Wednesday | 10:00-17:30 |
| Thursday | 10:00-17:30 |
| Friday | 10:00-20:30 |
| Saturday | 10:00-17:30 |
| Sunday | 10:00-17:30 |
*Information subject to change
The British Museum really struck me with its impressive size. The museum is huge, spread out over several floors, with very varied collections. It is a very busy place, which can make the visit a bit crowded or even tiring, but you can also choose to focus on a few sections to enjoy it more. A must-do at least once, while taking your time to appreciate the richness of it all!