There's no shortage of museums in London – from world-famous institutions like the British Museum to more niche offerings like the Cartoon Museum, there's something to suit every interest.
For art lovers, the National Gallery and the Tate Modern are must-sees, while history buffs will enjoy learning about London's past at the Museum of London. And if you're looking for something a little different, be sure to check out the Victoria and Albert Museum, which houses an extensive collection of decorative arts and design.
However, if you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary, London has some unique museums that are sure to pique your interest. We've curated a list of some not-so-traditional like museums for those who would like to try different. And with the so many amazing museums to choose from, there's no excuse not to start exploring London's rich cultural offerings today!
5 Must-See Artifacts in London
1The War Cabinet Room
Located in the Churchill War Rooms in London, the War Cabinet Room is a must-visit! The War cabinet room was a secret underground headquarters that was used by Prime Minister Winston Churchill during the Second World War in 1939. Just by walking through the corridor of this room you can get a glimpse into all the preparation that was done for the Second World War. Government ministers, the military and Prime Minister Winston Churchill all stayed in this room while planning and plotting the Second World War.
2The Transatlantic Telephone Room
Another interesting place to explore at the Churchill War Rooms is the Transatlantic Telephone Room. This intriguing room was essentially a secret cupboard room that was hidden as a private toilet in the Churchill War Rooms. Prime Minister Winston Churchill used this room to discuss secret matters with the President of the United States. The Transatlantic Telephone room was the most cutting-edge and advanced technology that was developed during the Second World War. This room is a must-visit when you visit the Churchill War Rooms in London!
3The Octagon Room
The Octagon Room is the oldest part of the Royal Observatory Greenwich and is definitely worth a visit! The Room was commissioned by King Charles III and designed by acclaimed architect Sir Christohpehr Wren who completed its construction in 1676. The Octagon Room is made up of eight-sided shaped high windows and high ceilings which could provide the astronomers during that time with a clear and uninterrupted view of the night sky. The high ceilings of the room also allowed the Royal Observatory Greenwich to install some of the most advanced clocks during that time in the Octagon Room.
4The Great Hall
If you are a ‘Potterhead’ and loved all the movies in the Harry Potter series as much as all the books written by J.K. Rowling, you simply have to go for the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London. The Great Hall is a must-visit! You enter the hall by opening a pair of massive double doors and are greeted with the different house tables, complete with crockery and the crest of each of the four houses. You can even see mannequins wearing the costumes that were actually worn by the actors in the movie.
5Diagon Alley
Who wouldn’t love to walk through Diagon Alley?! You can complete this wish of yours by walking through the Diagon Alley at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Be greeted by Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes, Harry’s favorite ice-cream shop and Ollivander’s wand shop as you walk down the alley. With a simple stroll through the Diagon Alley, you will feel like you are a part of the movies that are loved by so many people. If you are planning to visit London, visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour at Watford Junction and experience the magic of the Harry Potter movies for yourself!
7 Best Museums in London
Madame Tussauds London is a world-famous attraction that needs no introduction. Situated in the heart of the city, this remarkable museum is home to some of the most lifelike and realistic wax figures you will ever see. From global celebrities to British royalty, there is something for everyone at Madame Tussauds London. Interestingly, the history of Madame Tussauds London dates back to the French Revolution. Dring this time, Marie Tussaud was charged with making death masks of some of the most famous victims of the revolution, including Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI. After the revolution came to an end, Marie Tussaud went on to create her first wax figure, that of Voltaire. She then moved to England, where she opened her first wax museum in 1835. Since then, Madame Tussauds London has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to add Madame Tussauds London to your list of must-see attractions. You will not be disappointed!
Madame Tussauds Museum Highlights
- Marvel Hall of Heroes
- Star Wars
- Royal Tea
- Sherlock Holmes Experience
- Kong Skull Island
Recommended Madame Tussauds Museum Tickets
Madame Tussauds Reviews
It was very useful to book the tickets in advance , we saved time and could access the museum very quickly. Our kids loved the museum, it was nice wandering around the statues, take pictures and the special "horror part"... In a word : entertaining!
- Mathaly, Headout, July 2022
All the movie actors and sport legends were OK and intereseting. However, I am missing more researchers, heads of states and other famous people and other nobleses from today as well as from the past, which i think we found more of some years back if I do not remember wrong. For me it looked like such famous people had been replaced by star wars, skeletons and ghosts and other crap.
- Egil, Headout, October 2022
The Churchill War Rooms are a museum in London that is dedicated to the role that Winston Churchill played during World War II. The museum is located in the basement of the Ministry of Defence, where Churchill and his Cabinet members would meet during the war. The War Rooms were designed to be a self-contained site where the government could continue to operate even if the rest of London was destroyed by enemy bombing. The museum includes a variety of exhibit halls, which display items such as Churchill's desk, personal belongings, and wartime maps. In addition, there is a recreation of the Cabinet War Rooms, which visitors can explore. The Churchill War Rooms offer an enlightening glimpse into one of the most pivotal periods in British history.
Churchill War Rooms Highlights
- The War Cabinet Room
- The Map Room, Churchill’s Office Bedroom
- Room 60-BBC’s Broadcasting Room
- Transatlantic Telephone Room
Recommended Churchill War Rooms Tickets
Churchwill War Rooms Reviews
Our trip to London's Churchill War Rooms was very seamless, with our QR codes in hand. We appreciate the hassle-free arrangements!
- Julie, Headout, May 2022
An enjoyable and educational visit however I think it would be better if it was routed following the years with signs in the main room Their may be a planned layout but I couldn't discern it
- Paul, Headout, December 2021
The Clink Prison Museum is a unique tourist attraction in England. The museum is located in the former prison of the Clink, which was one of the most notorious prisons in England during the Tudor and Stuart periods. The Clink was famous for its harsh conditions and for its use of torture to extract confessions from prisoners. The prison was finally closed in 1780, and the building was converted into a museum in 2010. The museum features a series of exhibits that tell the story of the Clink and its prisoners. Visitors can also explore the prison cells and see how the prisoners lived. The Clink Prison Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in English history or in the stories of real-life criminals.
The Clink Prison Museum Highlights
- Torturing Devices
- Learning about reign of Queen ‘Bloody’ Mary I
- Immersive Stories of John Rogers
Recommended The Clink Prison Museum Tickets
Clink Prison Museum Reviews
It was amazing, the atmosphere was really nice. Maybe there would be eaven greater if there was people showing how they used all the itemes in there.
- Hristiyan, Headout, October 2022
Brilliant for info, worksheet for keeping our youngest engaged throughout and enough gruesome info for us adults. Great value
- Danielle, Headout, April 2022
Jack the Ripper is one of the most infamous serial killers in history, and his gruesome murders have captivated the public for over 130 years. If you're visiting London, you can now take a walking tour of the notorious Whitechapel district where the murders took place. The tour includes visits to some of the key crime scenes, as well as footage and photographs of the victims. You'll also hear stories about the police investigation and theories about the killer's identity. The Jack the Ripper Museum is an immersive tour, giving visitors a great way to learn more about one of London's darkest chapters, and it's sure to send a chill down your spine.
Jack The Ripper Museum Highlights
- Whistle of Officer PC Watkins
- Recreation of Jack The Ripper’s Sitting Room
- original “From Hell” and “Dear Boss” letter believed to have been penned by Jack the Ripper himself
- Jack the Ripper Museum Walk
Recommended Jack The Ripper Museum Tickets
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a historic site located in London, England. The observatory was founded in 1675 by King Charles II, and it was used for many years to study the stars and planets. In 1884, the observatory was relocated to its current location in Greenwich Park. Today, the observatory is open to the public and features several exhibits on astronomy and the history of the site. The Royal Observatory Greenwich is also home to the Prime Meridian, which is the line of longitude that runs through Greenwich and determines time zones around the world. Visitors can learn about the science of astronomy at the observatory, explore its historic buildings, and take in views of London from its hilltop location.
The Royal Observatory Greenwich Highlights
- Stand on historic Prime Meridian Line
- Great Equatorial Telescope, Peter Harrison Planetarium
- Octagon Room, Shepherd Clock
Recommended The Royal Observatory Greenwich Tickets
The Royal Observatory Greenwich Reviews
Great day out. Cutty sark was great lots to look at. The observatory was also superb. Had a very enjoyable day
- Gary, Headout, August 2022
The HMS Belfast is a decommissioned Royal Navy cruiser that now serves as a museum ship. The Belfast was launched in 1938 and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Falklands War. In 1963, the Belfast was decommissioned and sold to the City of London for use as a floating museum. The Belfast is now moored on the River Thames near the Tower of London and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ship's nine decks, see its original guns and engines, and learn about its history. The HMS Belfast is an impressive example of British engineering and a reminder of the country's proud naval history.
HMS Belfast Museum Highlights
- Nine decks of HMS Belfast
- Captain Deck, Wireless Room
- Mess Decks
- Gun direction platform
Recommended HMS Belfast Museum Tickets
HMS Belfast Reviews
You could easily spend a full day looking around and learning of life on board. Too much to list but one that stood out and we found fascinating was how the doctor operated on so many in one day in the tiny medical room , the staff were very helpf and friendly yoo well worth the money
- Julie, Headout, August 2022
Was very impressive to see a bit of British Maritime history, very detailed explained, nice view from main deck! Just to recommend!!!
- Ronald, Headout, August 2022
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Harry Potter films. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, Dumbledore's office, and the Forbidden Forest, and see props and costumes from the movies. The tour also includes a visit to the Hogwarts Express and Platform 9 3/4. The studio tour is located in Leavesden, just outside of London. It is recommended that visitors purchase tickets in advance, as tours often sell out. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is an unforgettable experience for Harry Potter fans of all ages.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Highlights
- Cupboard under the stairs
- The Great Hall
- Dumbledore’s Office
- The Hogwarts Express
- Diagon Alley
Recommended Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tickets
Tips to Experience Museums in London
Make a note of these handy tips when visiting any of the museums in London.
- Wear comfortable footwear since you will be walking a lot.
- Book your tickets online and in advance so that you can skip the line and get priority access to the museums in London
- Make a note of the best time to visit the museums in London and plan your visit accordingly.
- Try and use public transport to visit the museums in London since it will save you time and money.
- A few of the museums are not accessible for people with reduced mobility. So check this out before visiting the museums in London
- Always carry an umbrella with you since London experiences rain and very strong winds all-year round.
