The British Museum brings together objects from cultures across the world inside a landmark Bloomsbury building. Its galleries range from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome to civilizations in Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe, with the Rosetta Stone and the Great Court among its best-known highlights. The scale can feel immense, so the museum works best as a selective journey rather than a race through every room. It is also well placed for combining culture with Bloomsbury, Covent Garden or the West End.
Tottenham Court Road or Holborn
2–4 hours
Late opening on Fridays is much quieter.
Why visit
8 million objects spanning two million years of human culture.
Visitor information
- General admission is free; special exhibitions may be ticketed.
- Security checks at the entrance: travel light, large luggage is not accepted.
- Pick 2–3 galleries (Egypt, Greece, Mesopotamia) — the full collection cannot be seen in one visit.
- Step-free access is available; opening hours and any timed-entry rules are published by the museum.
Official sources
Visit plan
0:00
Great Court and the Rosetta Stone in the Egyptian sculpture gallery, ground floor.
0:20
Assyrian reliefs and the winged bulls, then the Parthenon sculptures.
0:50
Upper floor: Egyptian mummies — the busiest rooms, best late in the day.
1:20
Sutton Hoo and the Lewis Chessmen, then out through the Great Court.
When to go
Access & families
- Step-free entrance and lifts to all main gallery floors.
- Security check at the door: large suitcases are not accepted, so plan around your luggage.
- With children, 90 minutes and three galleries works far better than a full circuit.
- Seating is limited in the busiest galleries; the Great Court is the easiest place to rest.
Practical tips
- 01Free entry — donations welcome.
- 02Pick 2–3 galleries; trying to see everything is impossible.
- 03Free guided tours leave from the Great Court.
Frequently asked questions
Is the British Museum really free?
Yes, general admission to the permanent collection is free. Donations are welcome and temporary exhibitions may charge.
Where is the Rosetta Stone?
In the Egyptian sculpture gallery on the ground floor, close to the Great Court — it is signposted and usually busy, so go early or late.
What is the minimum time worth spending?
Ninety minutes is enough for the Rosetta Stone, the Assyrian reliefs, the Parthenon sculptures and the Egyptian mummies without rushing between floors.
What should I see if I only have one hour?
Stay on the ground floor: Great Court, Rosetta Stone, Assyrian galleries and the Parthenon sculptures are all within a few minutes of each other.
Can I bring a suitcase or large bag?
No. Large luggage is refused at the security check, so leave it at your accommodation or a station left-luggage office before coming.