A wide shot of the Great Court with the roof and Reading Room in view

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Free entry

Opening times

Daily: 10.00–17.00 
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Advance booking only

The British Museum

Great Russell Street
London WC1B 3DG

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Welcome back. Two million years of human history awaits!

We've made a few changes to ensure you can safely enjoy your visit:

  • Entry to the Museum is now ticketed for the free, permanent collection (only selected Ground floor galleries will be open) as well as paid exhibitions, so all visitors, including Members and volunteers, need to book a timed slot in advance.
  • Face coverings are required for the protection of yourself and others, unless you are exempt.
  • There is a new one-way route signposted through the Museum, which is easy to follow. Please see the list of available galleries below.
  • We ask that you keep a safe distance apart during your visit. Staff are on-hand to advise and there are markers throughout the Museum to guide you. Please be considerate to other visitors and staff.
  • Hand sanitiser stations can be found throughout the Museum. Please wash or sanitise your hands regularly. 
  • We have introduced extra cleaning measures for your protection.
  • Some of our cafés and shops will be open – contactless payment is preferred.
  • Please do not visit if you feel unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms.

Safely welcoming you back to the Museum

Over the last few months we have been planning the safest way for you to return.

- Hartwig Fischer, Director of the British Museum

Ways to explore

Ticket information

Exhibitions

Our special exhibitions Tantra: enlightenment to revolution (24 September – 24 January 2021) and the Citi exhibition Arctic culture and climate (22 October – 21 February 2021) are now available to book. Advanced booking is required for everyone including Members. 

Full opening hours

Getting here

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Main entrance: 
The British Museum
Great Russell Street,
London WC1B 3DG

Exit:
Montague Place
London WC1E 7JW

We'd also like to encourage visitors, where possible, to walk, cycle or drive in to visit. We recommend using the Transport For London (TFL) Journey Planner to plan your trip to the Museum.

Please always check the latest government advice on:

Entering the Museum

  • Please enter the Museum via the Main entrance on Great Russell Street. The Montague Place entrance is currently exit only. 
  • All visitors must pass through a security check which involves a bag search.
  • An easy access route is available for disabled visitors, Members and visitors with pushchairs and/or children under five.
  • If you require more information on accessibility for disabled visitors, please see our Accessibility at the Museum page for details.

Accessibility

We have a wide range of services for our visitors with access requirements. 

Find out how to make the most of your visit and plan your trip in advance on our Accessibility at the Museum page. 

Facilities

Eat, drink, shop and enjoy

In visit