Museums, galleries and libraries
Immerse yourself in other worlds and cultures, become an expert for a day on the Egyptians or vintage aeroplanes, and stare amazed at art exhibitions the world comes to see. Museums and art galleries in England take you to faraway places. You get to peek into distant lives by travelling just a few footsteps. At the last count there were around 1,600 museums in England, catering to almost every interest you can imagine. Many of them are housed in buildings as impressive as the collections within.
Discover the mystery of the Rosetta Stone
Visit the British Museum for free and see the famous Rosetta Stone. Dating back to ancient Egypt, the stone was key in the deciphering of hieroglyphs.
Location: London, Greater London
Learn about Jack the Ripper at City of London Police Museum
This museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the men, women and animals who have guarded the City since 1839.
Location: London, Greater London
Uncover London’s industrial heritage at The Brunel Museum
Discover how the world's first underwater tunnel was built on a visit to the Brunel Museum.
Location: London, Greater London
Explore Alexander Fleming's Laboratory
Discover the story of the father of penicillin in his lab in Paddington.
Location: Paddington, London
Fly with The Red Arrows aerial team at the RAF Museum
Take a ride on The Red Arrow flight simulators or go on a low-flying mission through valleys in a Tornado Jet at London’s Royal Air Force Museum.
Location: Barnet, Greater London
Rainy Day Activities: Step into history in the Churchill War Rooms
Delve underground into Churchill’s War Cabinet Rooms and uncover the secret location which housed the Prime Minister during WWII.
Location: Westminster, London
Uncover the mysterious world of Sherlock Holmes
Spend a day on the trail in London of the world’s most famous fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his sidekick, Dr Watson.
Location: London
Rainy Day Activities: Explore the spectacular Science Museum
Known around the world for its historic collections and inspirational exhibitions, London's Science Museum is a treat for all the family.
Location: South Kensington, London
Rainy Day Activities: Get hands on at the Natural History Museum
See hundreds of exciting, interactive exhibits in one of London’s most beautiful landmark buildings.
Location: South Kensington, London
Celebrate 200 years of John Keats's poetry at Keats House
Enjoy a varied programme of events from guided walks, tours and poetry readings to family days and music recitals in the peaceful setting of Keats House.
Location: Hampstead, London