Highlights
Free general admission to the permanent galleries (paid tickets for special exhibitions).
About this experience
The world’s leading museum of art, design and performance—free to enter and huge. Walk in from Cromwell Road, hit the Cast Courts (full-size Trajan’s Column + Michelangelo’s David replica), the Jewellery Gallery, and the Raphael Cartoons, then roam by vibe (fashion, sculpture, furniture, photography). Friday nights run late.
What's included
- Free general admission to the permanent galleries (paid tickets for special exhibitions).
Who it's for
- All ages; easy win for first-timers, design nerds, and families.
What you'll do
- Start in the Grand Entrance off Cromwell Road → choose a circuit (Cast Courts, Fashion & Jewellery, Raphael Cartoons) → coffee/shop on the way out.
Before you go
- Hours: Daily 10:00—17:45; Fridays to 22:00 (some galleries close after 17:45). Last entry ~30 mins before closing. Closed 24—26 Dec.
- Bags: security screening in place; no wheeled luggage and no bags larger than 56 × 45 × 21 cm in galleries (cloakroom limits apply).
Good to know
- Address: Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL. Nearest Tube: South Kensington (5 min) or Gloucester Road (10 min). Step-free option: Knightsbridge (~14 min).
Why this is worth it
Free, massive, and beautifully curated—do Cast Courts + Jewellery + Raphael, then come back for the rest.