Discover The British Museum | A Visitor's Introduction to The British Museum

Why Visit the British Museum?

The British Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the world under one roof. With over 8 million objects in its collection, the museum provides an extraordinary insight into human civilisations, from the earliest tools used by prehistoric peoples to the masterpieces of ancient and modern art. Visitors can see iconic artifacts such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies, making the museum a compelling stop for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or art.

The museum is also known for its free admission, making it accessible to everyone. Its central location in London, combined with its status as a cultural and academic institution, ensures a steady stream of exhibitions, lectures, and educational programmes, enriching the experience for visitors of all ages.

British Museum Highlights

1. The Rosetta Stone: One of the most famous objects in the museum, the Rosetta Stone is key to understanding ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Discovered in 1799, this large stone slab features the same text written in three scripts: Greek, Demotic, and hieroglyphic, and was crucial in deciphering the long-lost language of the pharaohs. The stone is displayed in the museum’s Egyptian Sculpture Gallery and attracts millions of visitors each year.

2. The Parthenon Sculptures: Also known as the Elgin Marbles, these are a series of classical Greek marble sculptures that originally adorned the Parthenon temple in Athens. They are displayed in the Duveen Gallery, where visitors can view some of the finest examples of ancient Greek art, including depictions of gods, mythological scenes, and processions. Their display offers insight into the culture and aesthetics of ancient Greece.

3. The Egyptian Mummies: The museum’s Egyptian Galleries contain one of the most significant collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt, including mummies, sarcophagi, and funerary goods. Visitors can learn about ancient Egyptian beliefs regarding death and the afterlife, as well as the sophisticated methods of mummification used to preserve the bodies of the dead for eternity.

4. The Sutton Hoo Treasure: Discovered in a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon burial mound, the Sutton Hoo treasure is one of the most important archaeological finds in British history. It includes an elaborately decorated helmet, a ceremonial shield, and various gold and silver items, offering a glimpse into the rich culture of early medieval England. The Sutton Hoo artifacts are displayed in the Gallery of Early Medieval Europe, alongside other treasures from the Dark Ages.

5. The Great Court: Opened in 2000, the Great Court is an architectural marvel and the largest covered public square in Europe. This central atrium, with its stunning glass and steel roof designed by architect Norman Foster, surrounds the museum’s original Reading Room. The Great Court is a great place to start or end your visit, offering cafes, seating areas, and easy access to the museum’s main galleries.

6. Assyrian Reliefs: The museum’s collection of Assyrian art is among the finest in the world, particularly the stone reliefs from the palaces of ancient kings in modern-day Iraq. These intricate carvings depict scenes of royal life, military campaigns, and mythological figures. Highlights include the famous Lion Hunt reliefs, which powerfully illustrate the might and grandeur of the Assyrian kings.

7. The Enlightenment Gallery: This gallery is housed in the museum’s oldest part, built in the 18th century, and evokes the spirit of the Age of Enlightenment. It reflects how scholars of the period collected and classified objects from around the world to better understand humanity and the natural world. The displays cover subjects like science, religion, art, and trade, and the gallery itself offers a glimpse into how the British Museum’s collection began.

British Museum Facilities and Visitor Information

The British Museum provides a range of visitor services to enhance the experience. The Information Desk near the main entrance offers maps and guidance on planning your visit. The museum has several cafés and restaurants, such as the Great Court Restaurant, offering a variety of refreshments and meals, from snacks to full lunches.

There are also multiple shops, including the main gift shop and specialist outlets focused on books, replicas, and educational toys. These stores offer a range of souvenirs, including books about the museum’s collection, replicas of famous artifacts, and artisan-made crafts.

The museum is committed to accessibility, with elevators, ramps, and wheelchair-friendly paths throughout the galleries. There are also accessible restrooms, and wheelchairs are available for loan.

Admission to the permanent collection is free, though some special exhibitions may require a ticket. The museum is open daily, except for a few major holidays. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets for special exhibitions in advance, especially during peak times, to avoid queues.

Nearby Attractions

Located in Bloomsbury, the British Museum is surrounded by several other cultural and educational landmarks. The Charles Dickens Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the famous novelist, is just a short walk away, as is The British Library, home to many of the nation’s most treasured literary and historical documents, including the Magna Carta and original works by Shakespeare.

For those interested in academic institutions, the University of London and SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies) are nearby, along with Russell Square, a beautiful public park ideal for a relaxing stroll after visiting the museum. Covent Garden, famous for its shops, restaurants, and street performances, is also within walking distance, making the museum a great stop as part of a broader London itinerary.

Practical Advice for Visitors

The British Museum is vast, and it’s easy to spend several hours exploring the collection. First-time visitors might want to prioritise key highlights such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies. Guided tours, including audio guides and special themed tours, are available to help visitors navigate the museum and gain deeper insights into the artifacts.

Since the museum can get quite busy, especially on weekends and school holidays, it’s advisable to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the museum covers multiple floors and requires a good deal of walking.

Photography is allowed in most galleries, but visitors should avoid using flash or tripods. It’s also important to note that some special exhibitions or objects may have restrictions on photography.