Visit the best museums in London, all with free entry! From the National Gallery to the Tate Modern, explore the city's vibrant cultural landscape.
London, a city that seamlessly blends the historic with the contemporary, is a dream destination for anyone who loves a good museum or gallery day. Half a decade ago, I went to the city for the first time and visited some of the best museums in London, but I needed to come back for more. Whether you’re wandering through centuries of artistic masterpieces, stepping back into Roman times, or diving into maritime history, the city offers a treasure trove of experiences that are as enriching as they are awe-inspiring.
Here’s the cherry on top: All of these world-class museums I’m about to talk about are free to enter.
So, let’s head over to the best museums in London, exploring their unique stories, breathtaking collections, and the special charm that makes each one unforgettable.
The National Gallery
Nestled in the bustling heart of Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is a beacon for art lovers. Its stunning neoclassical façade is just the beginning; step inside, and you’re greeted by over 2,300 works of art spanning the 13th to the 20th centuries. It’s like walking into a visual timeline of human creativity and expression.
At the heart of the collection is Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, a painting that practically buzzes with energy. Move along, and you’ll encounter Turner’s The Fighting Temeraire, a poignant homage to Britain’s maritime heritage. The gallery’s Renaissance treasures, like Botticelli’s Venus and Mars, transport you to an era where beauty and storytelling were one and the same. For those who love a good scandal, delve into the backstories of artists like Caravaggio, whose turbulent life was as dramatic as his shadowy masterpieces.
However, it’s not just the art that dazzles; the gallery itself is an architectural marvel, with light streaming through domed ceilings and vast halls that invite you to pause and reflect. Guided tours and interactive talks make the collection accessible even for those who might feel intimidated by fine art. Plus, when you’re done, Trafalgar Square offers a lively backdrop to sip a coffee and people-watch (or even visit a festival or event, if one happens to be going on during the time of your visit).
The Queen’s House
A short hop across the Thames lands you in Greenwich, home to one of London’s best-kept secrets: The Queen’s House. Built in the early 1600s by famed architect Inigo Jones, this elegant structure is a masterpiece of symmetry and serenity. Its history is steeped in royal intrigue; commissioned by Anne of Denmark, it was designed as a retreat from the bustling court. Today, it’s a haven for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
In fact, I actually found out about this museum while on my way to the Victoria & Albert Museum (sidebar: this is my #1 favourite museum, possibly of all time) the day before, spotting a subway advertisement that showed the Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I that said it was at this museum. That was enough for me to go the very next day to check it out.
The Queen’s House was great to explore, featuring works from the likes of Turner, Canaletto, and Hogarth. Its maritime-inspired collection feels perfectly at home in Greenwich, a borough with deep naval roots. The Tulip Stairs, a spiralling feat of elegance, are also a highlight for photographers and Instagrammers alike. Their ghostly legend only adds to the charm (though I can’t promise any spectral encounters).
Outside, the lush grounds offer a stunning view of the Thames and the Royal Observatory, making it easy to imagine why this spot was a favourite of the monarchy. A visit here is like stepping into a royal dream, complete with art, history, and a touch of mystique.
National Maritime Museum
While you’re in Greenwich, it only makes sense to head over to the National Maritime Museum, a short walk from The Queen’s House. As the largest museum of its kind in the world, this institution is a love letter to Britain’s seafaring heritage. From grand naval battles to the age of exploration, it chronicles the stories of those who dared to venture into the unknown.
Among the treasures is Admiral Nelson’s coat from the Battle of Trafalgar, complete with a bullet hole—a sobering reminder of the human cost of war. Explore intricate ship models that are so detailed they feel like art, and marvel at antique maps that once guided explorers to uncharted lands. Interactive exhibits bring history to life; you can even try your hand at steering a ship through treacherous waters (no pressure).
Beyond its historical offerings, the museum also delves into contemporary issues like climate change and ocean preservation, connecting the past to the present in meaningful ways. After exploring, take a moment to relax in Greenwich Park, where sweeping views of London provide the perfect backdrop.
Guildhall Art Gallery (and Roman Amphitheatre)
Tucked away in the heart of the City of London, the Guildhall Art Gallery is a hidden gem that surprises at every turn. While it may not have the sprawling collections of larger institutions, its focus on Victorian art gives it a unique charm. You’ll find works by the Pre-Raphaelites, whose romantic and richly detailed pieces captivate even modern audiences. As well, the staff are so friendly here, and they gave me a mini art lesson about the works in one of the smaller rooms before pointing out all of the must-see paintings in the gallery.
As amazing as the art is here, the real star of the show lies beneath your feet. During renovations in the 1980s, workers stumbled upon the remains of a Roman amphitheatre—an archaeological jackpot that now forms part of the museum’s experience. Walking through the ancient stone corridors, you can literally hear the roar of the crowds and the clash of gladiatorial combat (yes, yes, there are speakers with a soundtrack; I wasn’t hallucinating). It’s a surreal juxtaposition: above ground, Victorian elegance; below, the echoes of the ancient Roman Empire.
The Guildhall’s intimate scale allows for a more personal experience, and its central location makes it an easy stop on any cultural itinerary. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking for a quieter corner of London to explore, this gallery offers a little bit of everything.
Tate Modern
If you’re looking for something a bit edgier, head to the Tate Modern. Situated in a former power station on the South Bank, this museum is a testament to London’s ability to reinvent and reimagine. Its industrial architecture provides a striking contrast to the dynamic art it houses, creating a space that feels alive with possibility.
The Tate Modern is home to some of the biggest names in modern art, including Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko. Its exhibits span a wide range of movements, from Cubism to Surrealism, and The Turbine Hall, a cavernous space that hosts massive installations, is a particular highlight. Past works have included everything from giant slides to intricate spider sculptures, blurring the line between art and experience. It’s important to note, though, that many of the exhibits can only be entered by paying for entry.
While you’re here, don’t miss the panoramic views of London from the gallery’s rooftop terrace, where you can take in iconic sights like St Paul’s Cathedral (which is also free to enter and is gorgeous inside). The Tate Modern isn’t just a museum; it’s a space that challenges, inspires, and sometimes even confounds, but always leaves an impression.
All in All
London’s museums are more than just repositories of art and history—they’re vibrant, living spaces that tell the stories of humanity’s triumphs, struggles, and boundless creativity. From the timeless masterpieces of The National Gallery to the bold visions of the Tate Modern, each institution offers a unique lens through which to view the world. With free entry to all of these cultural landmarks, exploring London’s treasures has never been more accessible.
So pack your bags, bring your walking shoes, and dive into the city’s rich cultural landscape. Whether you’re standing before a Van Gogh, stepping onto the deck of a historic ship, or wandering through the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, London’s museums promise experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve left their halls.
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A place with many interesting and gorgeous museums? Count me in for sure! Those are all wonderful places and would love to visit them someday!
This sounds like such an amazing experience.
So how do you get in free? Are they literally like you just walk in ticket free or you need to do something to get a free ticket? Also I would have loved to see that tulip stairs.