British Museum: a practical visitor guide
Quick answer
The British Museum is free and open daily 10am–5pm, with late opening until 8.30pm on Fridays. Only special exhibitions are paid. Two hours is enough for the highlights (Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies); allow half a day for a relaxed visit.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
More British Museum guides
- British Museum in 2 hoursA 2-hour route through the British Museum: Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, mummies, Lewis Chessmen and Sutton Hoo, with timings and crowd tips.
- Hours & free entryThe British Museum is free: opening hours, booking a timed slot, Friday late opening, the best time to avoid crowds and what costs money.
- Must-see objectsThe 12 key objects at the British Museum with room numbers and why they matter: Rosetta Stone, Parthenon, mummies, Lewis Chessmen, Sutton Hoo and more.
- British Museum with kidsHow to visit the British Museum with kids: a 75-minute route, scavenger challenges, free entry, Friday late opening and practical family tips.
Point your camera at any artwork
Try it free at British Museum
AnyArt recognizes paintings, sculptures and monuments and tells you their story in seconds, like a personal audio guide. Free for iPhone, iPad and Android.
Why the British Museum is a must
It holds around eight million objects spanning two million years of human history: Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Asia, Africa and the Americas. It is one of the most visited museums in the world and it is free. It is so large that trying to see everything is a mistake: pick two or three civilisations and enjoy them.
How to plan your visit
- Book a free timed slot online: it guarantees entry and cuts the wait at the door.
- Enter from Great Russell Street and start in the Great Court, the covered atrium where floor plans are handed out.
- Ground floor: Egypt, Greece, Assyria and Rome. Upper floors: mummies, Middle East, Asia and medieval Europe.
- Friday late opening until 8.30pm is a quieter alternative.
- Special exhibitions are ticketed separately; check the official website for prices.
- With the AnyArt app, point your camera at any object to hear its story without renting an audio guide.
Combine it with the rest of Bloomsbury
The museum sits in the heart of Bloomsbury, a few minutes' walk from the British Library and Covent Garden. With a full day, pair a morning here with an afternoon at the National Gallery or Tate Modern, London's other great free museums.
Frequently asked questions
Is the British Museum free?
Yes, the permanent collection is free every day. Special exhibitions are ticketed.
How long do you need at the British Museum?
Two hours covers the big icons. For a relaxed visit plan 3 to 4 hours, and more if you want depth.
Do I need to book?
Entry is free, but booking a timed slot online is recommended to secure access, especially at weekends and during school holidays.
What are the British Museum's opening hours?
10am to 5pm daily and until 8.30pm on Fridays. Check the official website for holiday closures.
Where is the Rosetta Stone?
In room 4 on the ground floor, in the Egyptian sculpture gallery.