London Travel Service
Thinking of Visiting London ? London has so much to offer visitors, probably more than you realise. London offers Museums, Theatres, Restaurants of all Cuisines, Sports, Shopping, Religion, Heritages and even Royalty.
London Museums
London's Museums from A to Z
Here is an A to Z list of every London museum that we have come across (so far!) - more than 200 in total. All but one - the Royal Gunpowder Mills - are located in Greater London, within the M25 orbital motorway.
0-9 (numeric)
18 Folgate Street - see Dennis Severs' House
18 Stafford Terrace (Linley Sambourne House)
Former home of Edward Linley Sambourne, cartoonist for Punch Magazine. A beautifully preserved Victorian time capsule. Limited opening, booking recommended
19 Princelet Street (Museum of Immigration and Diversity)
A historic house and synagogue with a rich history that echoes East London's history of immigration and settlement. Very limited opening
2 Willow Road
1930's Modernist house designed by Ernö Goldfinger, plus Goldfinger's 20th Century art collection.
7 Hammersmith Terrace (Emery Walker House)
Former home of Sir Emery Walker, printer, collector, friend of William Morris, and a leading figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement. By appointment only
A
Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum
The laboratory in which Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928, and a museum of his life and work.
All Hallows By The Tower Crypt Museum
A historic church first established in 675 AD with a museum of Roman, Saxon and Medieval artefacts and treasures.
Anaesthesia Museum & Heritage Centre
A collection of over 2000 objects relating to the history of anaesthesia, dating from the 18th century to the present day.
Apsley House (Wellington Museum)
A fine Georgian property, 'Number One London' was home to the Duke of Wellington and has an important art collection.
Arsenal Football Museum
The history of this famous football club, from its time in Woolwich and Highbury to today's Emirates Stadium, plus exhibits and memorabilia.
B
Baden-Powell House Collection
A collection of Baden-Powell and Scouting memorabilia, letters and paintings.
Bank of England Museum
The story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK's central bank.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Hindu Temple) Exhibition
An exhibition on 'Understanding Hinduism' in a stunningly beautiful Hindu temple, said to be the biggest outside India.
Barnet Museum
The collection of the Barnet and District Local History Society, including archaeology, domestic items, costume and an exhibition on the Battle of Barnet.
Benjamin Franklin Museum
The world's only remaining Franklin home, with displays on the Founding Father of the United States' interest in science, health and music.
Ben Uri Art Gallery, London Jewish Museum of Art
Europe's only dedicated museum of Jewish art has both a permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Bethlem Royal Hospital Archives and Museum, Beckenham
The collection of the world's first and oldest institution to specialise in mental illnesses, focusing on historical artefacts and works by artists with mental health problems.
Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood - see V&A Museum of Childhood
Boston Manor House, Hounslow
A Jacobean Manor House with an impressive interior and extensive local painting collection.
Bourne Hall Museum, Epsom
A local history museum with displays on Henry VIII's Palace of Nonsuch and the famous Derby horse race.
Brent Museum, Willesden Green
A local history museum focusing on working and domestic life from c.1850 to the present day, plus a gallery on multicultural communities in Brent.
British Airways Archive and Museum
A heritage centre with a large collection of aviation uniforms, models and memorabilia, plus an extensive document archive. By appointment only
British Dental Association Museum
The development and practice of dentistry is presented through the largest collection of dental material in the UK. Limited opening
British Library
The national library of the United Kingdom has an extraordinary and internationally important collection of books, manuscripts and documents on permanent display.
British Museum
A vast and wonderful collection of over 7 million artefacts and artworks from all over the world, including numerous world-famous exhibits.
British Music Experience
An interactive museum celebrating popular music in Britain: a trip through British music history.
British Optical Association Museum, Eye Museum
A world-class collection of items of ophthalmic and optical interest. By appointment only
British Red Cross Museum & Archives
Artefacts and documents relating to British Red Cross' humanitarian work in peace and war, from its beginnings in 1870 to the present day. By appointment only
British Vintage Wireless and Television Museum
A vast and ever-expanding range of radios, televisions, speakers and radiograms from the dawn of radio up to the last valve model ever made, plus components, wireless associated artefacts and a valve laboratory. By appointment only
Bromley Museum, Orpington
A local history museum with displays on Bromley from prehistoric times to the present day.
Brooklands Museum of British Motorsport & Aviation (Motorsport Museum), Weybridge
Racing cars, planes and exhibits on the history of motor sports and aviation, plus regular themed events.
Bruce Castle Museum, Tottenham
A 16th-century manor house with local history collections and an art gallery.
Brunei Gallery, School of Oriental & African Studies
Exhibitions of historical and contemporary art and artefacts from Africa, Asia & the Middle East.
Brunel Engine House & Tunnel Museum, Rotherhithe
An exhibition about the achievements of Brunel and his son, housed in the engine house which enabled the world's first major underwater tunnel to be dug under the River Thames. Limited opening
Building Centre (New London Architecture Gallery)
Permanent & temporary displays on London's built environment, focusing on current development & construction, plus the vast Pipers Central London Model.
Burgh House & Hampstead Museum
An 18th century house incorporating Hampstead's local history collections and art gallery.
C
Carlyle's House
A beautiful Queen Anne house, former home of Thomas Carlyle, the great Victorian writer and thinker.
Cartoon Museum
The finest examples of British cartoons, caricature, and comic art from the 18th century to the present day.
Centre of the Cell
An interactive science education centre located in a working bio-medical research laboratory at the University of London.
By appointment only
Charles Dickens Museum (Dickens House Museum)
A former home of the great Victorian novelist, and the world's most important collection of Dickens-related material.
Chartered Insurance Institute Museum (no website)
Artefacts relating to the history of fire-fighting and fire insurance, including a unique collection of official insurance firemarks. 20 Aldermanbury, City of London, EC2V 7HY, Tel: 020 7417 4417 Open Mon-Fri 9.00 to 17.00; ring in advance to confirm
Chelsea Football Club Museum
An interactive exhibition covering the club's history from its inauguration to present day.
Chiswick House
An elegant 18th century villa with magnificent gardens and an important art collection.
Churchill Museum & Cabinet War Rooms
Walk in Churchill's footsteps and learn about his public and private life in the Cabinet War Rooms, constructed to allow the government to work in safety during WWII.
Cinema Museum, Kennington
A unique collection of artefacts, memorabilia and equipment that preserves the history and spirit of cinema from the 1890s onwards.
By appointment only
City of London Police Museum
A small but unique museum tracing the history of crime and policing in the City of London from 1832 when the force was founded through to the present day.
Clink Prison Museum
A museum on the site of the original Clink Prison - the prison that gave its name to all others.
Clockmakers Museum
The museum of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers has a fine collection of English and European clocks, watchers, marine timekeepers and horological curiosities.
Clowns International Archive & Exhibition
A display of material and 'clown face eggs' is open to the public once a month at the Grimaldi Memorial in the 'Clown's Church', Dalston. Very limited opening
Courtauld Gallery
A remarkable collection of paintings, drawings & prints, sculpture and decorative arts, including famous Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
Crossness Pumping Station
An architecturally spectacular Victorian pumping station and its 4 rotative beam engines, opened in 1865 as part of London's urgently needed main sewerage system.
Crystal Palace Museum
A small museum on the site of the reconstructed Crystal Palace that tells the story of the Palace in Hyde Park and Sydenham Hill with pictures, documents and artefacts.
Cuming Museum
Home of the diverse and worldwide collection of the Cuming Family, including archaeology, ethnography, social history and natural history, and museum of Southwark's local history.
Cutty Sark
The last - and the fastest and the greatest - of the old tea clippers, built to carry tea from China to London.
D
De Havilland Aircraft Heritage Centre - (also known as the Mosquito Aircraft Museum)
An aviation museum covering all aspects of the de Havilland company, located on the site where the iconic Mosquito was designed.
Dennis Severs' House (also known as 18 Folgate Street)
A time capsule where visitors are invited to experience a series of extraordinary period rooms and 'atmospheres'. A historical/theatrical experience: "you either see it or you don't". Limited opening
Design Museum
London's museum of international contemporary design featuring design, architecture and fashion through the 20th & 21st centuries.
Dickens House Museum - see Charles Dickens Museum
Dr Johnson's House
The home and workplace of Samuel Johnson from 1748-1759 and where he compiled the first comprehensive English Dictionary.
Dulwich Picture Gallery
Designed by Sir John Soane as England's first purpose-built art gallery, it has a major collection of old masters including Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin, Murillo & Gainsborough.
E
Emery Walker House - see 7 Hammersmith Terrace
Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
An important collection of mostly early 20th century art comprising Futurist works, figurative art & sculpture, dating from 1890 to the 1950s.
F
Fan Museum, Greenwich
The only museum in the world devoted entirely to fans and fan making, with a collection of 3,500 predominantly antique fans from around the world.
Faraday Museum - see Museum at the Royal Institution
Fashion & Textile Museum
Founded by Zandra Rhodes, this is a cutting edge centre for contemporary fashion, textiles and jewellery design, with a focus on the period 1950 to the present day.
Fenton House
A 17th century merchant house with outstanding collections of porcelain, 17th century needlework & Georgian furniture, plus the Benton Fletcher Collection of early keyboard instruments.
Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum
The history of artillery, presenting the role that 'Gunners' Regiment and their equipment have played, from catapult to rocket, and battlefield to peacekeeping missions.
Florence Nightingale Museum
A unique collection of artefacts relating to Florence Nightingale's life and many achievements, including her pet owl, Athena, and her famous lamp.
Foundling Museum
Britain's original home for abandoned children and London's first ever public art gallery: a remarkable collection of art, period interiors & social history, including the Gerald Coke Handel Collection.
Freemasonry Library & Museum
One of the finest collections of Masonic material in the world encompassing jewels & regalia, prints, engravings & decorative arts, and items belonging to famous and Royal Freemasons.
Freud Museum
Former home of Sigmund Freud & his daughter Anna, now a museum containing Freud's library, his famous couch, and collection of antiquities.
Fulham Palace Museum
Formerly the country retreat of the Bishops of London, the Palace's stately rooms now house an intriguing museum that interprets the site's extraordinary history.
Fusilier Museum, Tower of London
The story of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, an infantry regiment raised at the Tower of London in 1685, from its formation to the present day.
G
Galton Collection, University College London
The scientific instruments, papers, and personal memorabilia of eminent scientist Sir Francis Galton F.R.S. (1822-1911).
By appointment only
Garden Museum (formerly Museum of Garden History)
Based in and around the ancient church of St Mary's which is the burial place of John Tradescant the first great British gardener and plant-hunter, the Garden Museum celebrates the design, history and art of gardens.
Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare, Richmond
Garrick's Temple was built by the great actor-manager David Garrick in 1756 to celebrate the genius of William Shakespeare. Very limited opening
Geffrye Museum
The changing style of the English domestic interior, with furniture, textiles, paintings and objects displayed in a series of period rooms from 1600 to the present day, plus a walled herb garden and four period gardens.
Golden Hinde
A full-sized reconstruction of the Tudor warship in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the world in 1577-1580. Sample a taste of life on board this Tudor warship.
Grant Museum of Zoology, University College London
67,000 zoological specimens, covering the whole Animal Kingdom and including many endangered or extinct creatures such as the Quagga and the Dodo, plus the Blaschka glass collection.
Greenwich Heritage Centre
Local history museum presenting the history of Greenwich, including the history of the Royal Arsenal and the Royal Woolwich Dockyard, plus the Greenwich Millennium Embroideries.
Greenwich Visitor Centre
The story of the Old Royal Naval College and Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, plus hands-on exhibits and the Old Brewery.
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children Museum and Archives
The history of this famous hospital and well-known people connected with it, including a small display relating to Peter Pan and his creator J M Barrie. By appointment only
Guards Museum
A wealth of information and artefacts relating to the five regiments of Foot Guards - Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish & Welsh - who guard the Sovereign and the Royal Palaces.
Guildhall Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre
The art collection of the City of London Corporation including paintings of London and Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, plus the remains of London's only Roman Amphitheatre.
Gunnersbury Park Museum, Hounslow
A 19th century mansion housing local history collections for Ealing and Hounslow, including archaeology, costume and dress, and pottery and glass.
H
Hackney Museum
Local history museum with displays about Hackney past and present, hands-on activities and community exhibitions.
Hall Place, Bexley
A Tudor mansion and walled garden, housing exhibits on Bexley's local history.
Hampstead Museum - see Burgh House & Hampstead Museum
Handel House Museum
18th century house where George Frideric Handel lived and composed for 36 years until his death in 1759. Restored to reflect the life and times of the composer, plus regular musical events.
Harrow Museum
Displays on Harrow's local history, agriculture and industries, located in historic barns in the grounds of Headstone Manor.
Havering Museum
Local history museum for the Havering area, with displays on farming, trading, transport, childhood, home life and local industries.
HMS Belfast
Explore Britain's 20th century naval heritage on one of the most powerful large light cruisers ever built, and the only surviving vessel of her type to have seen active service during the Second World War.
Hogarth's House
The country home of the great painter, engraver and satirist William Hogarth (1697-1764), with the most extensive collection of his prints on permanent public display.
Honeywood Museum, Sutton
A historic building housing Sutton's local history collections, including Henry VIII and Nonsuch Palace, the River Wandle, Victorian Carshalton, Edwardian toys and local railways.
Horniman Museum, Forest Hill
A very family-friendly museum with anthropology, natural history, Africa and musical instrument galleries, plus an aquarium and extensive gardens.
Household Cavalry Museum
A living museum in the heart of Horse Guards, Whitehall, giving a unique 'behind-the-scenes' look at the ceremonial and operational role of the Household Cavalry Regiment.
Hunterian Museum, Royal College of Surgeons
400 years of medical history, from one of the oldest anatomical collections in the world to the latest advances in minimal access surgery, plus paintings, drawings and sculpture.
I
Imperial War Museum
The headquarters of Britain's acclaimed national museum of war and wartime life, covering all aspects of 20th and 21st century conflict involving Britain and the Commonwealth.
Inns of Court and City Yeomanry Museum
A collection of uniforms, weapons, medals and memorabilia tracing the unusual history of the regiment with close associations with London's legal profession. By appointment only
Institute of Archaeology Collections, University College London
The A.G. Leventis Gallery of Cypriot and Eastern Mediterranean Archaeology, plus, by appointment, fine teaching and reference collections of archaeological, archaeobotanical and zooarchaeological material.
Island History Trust, Isle of Dogs
A community history project and fully-indexed photo archive dedicated to recording and preserving the history of the Isle of Dogs area and the people who live there.
Islington Museum
Local history collections, plus regular art and community-based temporary exhibitions.
J
Jewel House, Tower of London
The greatest working collection of Crown Jewels in the world - look for the 'in use' signs! - and priceless symbols of the British monarchy, guarded by Yeomen Warders in a high-security vault.
Jewel Tower
A small medieval tower built in 1365 to store Edward III's personal belongings. It now houses an exhibition about the history of The British Parliament: 'Parliament Past and Present'.
Jewish Military Museum
Portraits, letters and artefacts commemorating the contribution made by British Jews to the British Armed Forces, both in the past and the present day.
Phone or e-mail a little in advance of your visit for security access
Jewish Museum of London
Collections on the history of the Jewish community in Britain, the Holocaust, and ceremonial art. An inspirational place to explore Jewish culture, heritage and identity.
K
Keats' House
Former home of early 19th century Romantic poet John Keats, and the setting that inspired some of his most famous and memorable poetry.
Kelmscott House Museum, William Morris Society, Hammersmith
F
Fan Museum, Greenwich
The only museum in the world devoted entirely to fans and fan making, with a collection of 3,500 predominantly antique fans from around the world.
Faraday Museum - see Museum at the Royal Institution
Fashion & Textile Museum
Founded by Zandra Rhodes, this is a cutting edge centre for contemporary fashion, textiles and jewellery design, with a focus on the period 1950 to the present day.
Fenton House
A 17th century merchant house with outstanding collections of porcelain, 17th century needlework & Georgian furniture, plus the Benton Fletcher Collection of early keyboard instruments.
Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum
The history of artillery, presenting the role that 'Gunners' Regiment and their equipment have played, from catapult to rocket, and battlefield to peacekeeping missions.
Florence Nightingale Museum
A unique collection of artefacts relating to Florence Nightingale's life and many achievements, including her pet owl, Athena, and her famous lamp.
Foundling Museum
Britain's original home for abandoned children and London's first ever public art gallery: a remarkable collection of art, period interiors & social history, including the Gerald Coke Handel Collection.
Freemasonry Library & Museum
One of the finest collections of Masonic material in the world encompassing jewels & regalia, prints, engravings & decorative arts, and items belonging to famous and Royal Freemasons.
Freud Museum
Former home of Sigmund Freud & his daughter Anna, now a museum containing Freud's library, his famous couch, and collection of antiquities.
Fulham Palace Museum
Formerly the country retreat of the Bishops of London, the Palace's stately rooms now house an intriguing museum that interprets the site's extraordinary history.
Fusilier Museum, Tower of London
The story of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, an infantry regiment raised at the Tower of London in 1685, from its formation to the present day.
G
Galton Collection, University College London
The scientific instruments, papers, and personal memorabilia of eminent scientist Sir Francis Galton F.R.S. (1822-1911).
By appointment only
Garden Museum (formerly Museum of Garden History)
Based in and around the ancient church of St Mary's which is the burial place of John Tradescant the first great British gardener and plant-hunter, the Garden Museum celebrates the design, history and art of gardens.
Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare, Richmond
Garrick's Temple was built by the great actor-manager David Garrick in 1756 to celebrate the genius of William Shakespeare. Very limited opening
Geffrye Museum
The changing style of the English domestic interior, with furniture, textiles, paintings and objects displayed in a series of period rooms from 1600 to the present day, plus a walled herb garden and four period gardens.
Golden Hinde
A full-sized reconstruction of the Tudor warship in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the world in 1577-1580. Sample a taste of life on board this Tudor warship.
Grant Museum of Zoology, University College London
67,000 zoological specimens, covering the whole Animal Kingdom and including many endangered or extinct creatures such as the Quagga and the Dodo, plus the Blaschka glass collection.
Greenwich Heritage Centre
Local history museum presenting the history of Greenwich, including the history of the Royal Arsenal and the Royal Woolwich Dockyard, plus the Greenwich Millennium Embroideries.
Greenwich Visitor Centre
The story of the Old Royal Naval College and Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, plus hands-on exhibits and the Old Brewery.
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children Museum and Archives
The history of this famous hospital and well-known people connected with it, including a small display relating to Peter Pan and his creator J M Barrie. By appointment only
Guards Museum
A wealth of information and artefacts relating to the five regiments of Foot Guards - Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish & Welsh - who guard the Sovereign and the Royal Palaces.
Guildhall Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre
The art collection of the City of London Corporation including paintings of London and Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, plus the remains of London's only Roman Amphitheatre.
Gunnersbury Park Museum, Hounslow
A 19th century mansion housing local history collections for Ealing and Hounslow, including archaeology, costume and dress, and pottery and glass.
H
Hackney Museum
Local history museum with displays about Hackney past and present, hands-on activities and community exhibitions.
Hall Place, Bexley
A Tudor mansion and walled garden, housing exhibits on Bexley's local history.
Hampstead Museum - see Burgh House & Hampstead Museum
Handel House Museum
18th century house where George Frideric Handel lived and composed for 36 years until his death in 1759. Restored to reflect the life and times of the composer, plus regular musical events.
Harrow Museum
Displays on Harrow's local history, agriculture and industries, located in historic barns in the grounds of Headstone Manor.
Havering Museum
Local history museum for the Havering area, with displays on farming, trading, transport, childhood, home life and local industries.
HMS Belfast
Explore Britain's 20th century naval heritage on one of the most powerful large light cruisers ever built, and the only surviving vessel of her type to have seen active service during the Second World War.
Hogarth's House
The country home of the great painter, engraver and satirist William Hogarth (1697-1764), with the most extensive collection of his prints on permanent public display.
Honeywood Museum, Sutton
A historic building housing Sutton's local history collections, including Henry VIII and Nonsuch Palace, the River Wandle, Victorian Carshalton, Edwardian toys and local railways.
Horniman Museum, Forest Hill
A very family-friendly museum with anthropology, natural history, Africa and musical instrument galleries, plus an aquarium and extensive gardens.
Household Cavalry Museum
A living museum in the heart of Horse Guards, Whitehall, giving a unique 'behind-the-scenes' look at the ceremonial and operational role of the Household Cavalry Regiment.
Hunterian Museum, Royal College of Surgeons
400 years of medical history, from one of the oldest anatomical collections in the world to the latest advances in minimal access surgery, plus paintings, drawings and sculpture.
I
Imperial War Museum
The headquarters of Britain's acclaimed national museum of war and wartime life, covering all aspects of 20th and 21st century conflict involving Britain and the Commonwealth.
Inns of Court and City Yeomanry Museum
A collection of uniforms, weapons, medals and memorabilia tracing the unusual history of the regiment with close associations with London's legal profession. By appointment only
Institute of Archaeology Collections, University College London
The A.G. Leventis Gallery of Cypriot and Eastern Mediterranean Archaeology, plus, by appointment, fine teaching and reference collections of archaeological, archaeobotanical and zooarchaeological material.
Island History Trust, Isle of Dogs
A community history project and fully-indexed photo archive dedicated to recording and preserving the history of the Isle of Dogs area and the people who live there.
Islington Museum
Local history collections, plus regular art and community-based temporary exhibitions.
J
Jewel House, Tower of London
The greatest working collection of Crown Jewels in the world - look for the 'in use' signs! - and priceless symbols of the British monarchy, guarded by Yeomen Warders in a high-security vault.
Jewel Tower
A small medieval tower built in 1365 to store Edward III's personal belongings. It now houses an exhibition about the history of The British Parliament: 'Parliament Past and Present'.
Jewish Military Museum
Portraits, letters and artefacts commemorating the contribution made by British Jews to the British Armed Forces, both in the past and the present day.
Phone or e-mail a little in advance of your visit for security access
Jewish Museum of London
Collections on the history of the Jewish community in Britain, the Holocaust, and ceremonial art. An inspirational place to explore Jewish culture, heritage and identity.
K
Keats' House
Former home of early 19th century Romantic poet John Keats, and the setting that inspired some of his most famous and memorable poetry.
Kelmscott House Museum, William Morris Society, Hammersmith
Home of designer, poet and socialist William Morris from 1878 until his death in 1896, and the headquarters of the William Morris Society. Limited opening
Kempton Great Engines, Hounslow
An historic engine house containing two steam engines and steam turbines, one of which - 'The Sir William Prescott' - is the world's largest fully operational Triple Expansion Steam Engine.
Kennel Club Art Gallery
The largest collection of dog paintings in Europe, shown in a series of temporary exhibitions.
Kenwood House
Stately home on Hampstead Heath, remodelled by Adam in the 18th Century, and home to the Iveagh Bequest which includes masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner & Gainsborough, plus the Suffolk collection of rare Elizabethan portraits.
Kew Bridge Steam Museum
A collection of giant pumping engines & a working steam locomotive in a Victorian waterworks on the Thames, which together demonstrate the major developments in steam engine technology.
Kew Transport Museum (no website)
A collection of specialised and unusual public and private vehicles from across the British Isles. 110 North Road, Kew, TW9 3QA, Tel: 020 8332 0672
Kingston Museum
A local history museum presenting the area's ancient origins and the story of the 'Royal Borough', plus an important Eadweard Muybridge photographic collection.
Kirkaldy Testing Museum (no website - see the Wikipedia entry)
David Kirkaldy's huge Victorian testing machine for testing the strength of materials and structures, plus many smaller more modern machines.
Open on the first Sunday of every month, 11am-3pm 99 Southwark High Street, Southwark, SE1 0JF
L
Lambeth Palace Library
The historic library and record office of the Archbishops of Canterbury and principal repository of the documentary history of the Church of England, plus annual public exhibitions. Limited opening
Leighton House Museum
Home and studio of leading Victorian artist, Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896). A 'private palace of art', and one of the most remarkable buildings of the 19th century.
Linley Sambourne House - see 18 Stafford Terrace
Little Holland House, Sutton
Former home of Frank R. Dickinson (1874-1961), artist, designer and craftsman, who built, furnished and decorated his house in the English Arts & Crafts style between 1902-4, following the teachings and philosophies of William Morris and John Ruskin. Very limited opening
London Bridge Museum Peter Jackson Collection
Models and memorabilia relating to London Bridge old and new, collected by Peter Jackson OBE (NB: part of the London Bridge Experience)
London Canal Museum
A historic canal-side ice warehouse with displays telling the story of London's canals, boats and workers, plus the history of London's ice trade and ice cream!
London Film Museum (formerly known as The Movieum)
Costumes, props and sets from famous films, movie and TV memorabilia, plus the history of the British film industry and an animation gallery.
London Fire Brigade Museum
A Victorian fire station and collection of historical fire engines, plus displays on the Great Fire of London and fire fighting in World War II.
By appointment only
London Jewish Museum of Art - see Ben Uri Art Gallery
London Motor Museum, Hayes
Vintage classic cars alongside radical custom vehicles: over 100 vehicles from the 1930s to the present day.
London Motorcycle Museum, Greenford
A fine collection of British Motorcycles including rare and experimental models, plus exhibits relating to Britain's biking history and heritage.
Limited opening
London Scottish Regimental Museum
Displays on campaigns, uniforms and equipment, clan shields, and paintings, located in the drill hall at Regimental Headquarters. By appointment only
London Sewing Machine Museum
A collection of 600 machines, charting the history of the sewing machine from 1850 to 1950, including rare and royal machines. Located within the Wimbledon Sewing Machine Company. Very limited opening or by appointment
London Transport Museum
London's transport heritage presented with vehicles, signs, models, uniforms and photographs, plus artwork and a celebrated poster collection.
London Transport Museum Depot, Acton
The London Transport Museum's collections which are not on display in the main museum (see above). Open to the public for monthly guided tours and themed open weekends.
M
Magic Circle Museum
Treasures and memorabilia relating to the 'history of mystery', including handcuffs used by Harry Houdini and the magic props used by HRH Prince Charles. Limited opening, by appointment only
Mansion House
Residence of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, with magnificent interiors and elegant furniture, a superb collection of plate, and the Harold Samuel Collection of 17th century Dutch paintings. Limited opening
Marianne North Gallery, Kew Gardens
The remarkable landscape and botanical art collection of the pioneering Marianne North is housed in a beautiful Victorian building within Kew Gardens. It is the only permanent solo exhibition by a female artist in Britain.
Markfield Beam Engine and Museum, Tottenham
A fine example of a Victorian steam powered pumping engine, housed in its original engine house in the former sewage treatment works for Tottenham.
Limited opening
Marx Memorial Library & Lenin Room
A unique institution holding 150,000 socialist volumes, with historic reading and meeting rooms, plus the room where Lenin worked during his exile in London. Also home of the 'Printer's Collection'.
MCC Museum at Lord's
The world's oldest sporting museum, home of 'The Ashes', and a world-class collection of cricketing artefacts both historic and contemporary.
Merton Heritage Centre
A local history museum telling the story of Merton and its people through a changing programme of displays and events.
Met Collection, History of the Metropolitan Police
Historical artefacts, including uniform and equipment, relating to the Metropolitan Police from the start of the service in 1829, through the development of modern policing, to the present day.
Metropolitan Water Board Railway Society, Hanworth Loop
A project aiming to restore the narrow gauge line that once connected the great pumping engines at Kempton to the Thames.
Very limited opening (occasional public open days)
Mosquito Aircraft Museum - see De Havilland Aircraft Heritage Centre
Motorsport Museum - see Brooklands Museum of British Motorsport & Aviation
Movieum - see London Film Museum
Museum at the Royal Institution (Faraday Museum)
Explore the world-changing science that's happened at the RI since 1799, including Faraday's magnetic laboratory of the 1850s and a current state-of-the-art nanotechnology lab.
Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising
A collection of 12,000 items from the Robert Opie Collection, charting this history of consumer culture through brands and packs, posters and adverts, fads and fashions, toys and games.
Museum of British Military Music, Kneller Hall, Twickenham
The home of British Army music with a collection of instruments ranging from bugles to saxophones, and a display of related articles, paintings and photographs. By appointment only
Museum of Croydon
The story of Croydon from 1800 to the present day, located in the Croydon Clocktower building, plus an art collection and the Riesco Collection of Chinese pottery.
Museum of Economic Botany 'Plants+People', Kew Gardens
Selections from Kew's fascinating economic botany collections, including 'Healing plants', 'Sugar and spice', 'Plants for energy' and 'To dye for'.
Museum of Garden History - see Garden Museum
Museum of Immigration and Diversity - see 19 Princelet Street
Museum of London
The fascinating story of the world's greatest city from prehistoric times to the present day.
Museum of London Docklands
London's long history as a port and one of the world's great trading cities, told through stories of trade, migration and commerce.
Museum of Methodism, Wesley's Chapel & John Wesley's House
The history of Methodism from John Wesley to the present day, and its contribution to shaping Britain's political and social history.
Museum of Musical Instruments, Royal College of Music
An internationally renowned collection of over 800 instruments and accessories from c.1480 to the present, plus portraits and other paintings.
Museum of Richmond
The rich heritage of Richmond, Ham, Petersham and Kew from mediaeval times to the present day.
Museum of the Order of St. John
The Order's 900 year history of caring, from the Crusades through to its role today with St John Ambulance, located in a historic gateway and church.
Museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society
The history of British pharmacy and healthcare, including medicines, dispensing equipment and containers, photos and caricatures.
Musical Museum, Brentford
One of the world's foremost collections of automatic instruments, from the tiny clockwork Musical Box to the self playing 'Mighty Wurlitzer', plus a concert hall.
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National Army Museum
The story of the British Army, the men and women who have served in it past and present, and its role in shaping the world we live in today.
National Gallery
The national collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world.
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
The world's largest maritime museum with a vast collection relating to the sea, ships, astronomy and time. Part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site.
National Portrait Gallery
Portraits of the most famous people in British history, from the 16th century to the present day. The world's largest collection of personalities and faces in paintings, sculpture, prints and photography.
Natural History Museum
A beautiful landmark building housing the largest and most important natural history collection in the world, from microscopic slides to mammoth skeletons, plus important geological collections and - of course - dinosaurs!
New London Architecture - see Building Centre
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Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret
The oldest surgical operating theatre in Europe, uniquely located in the Herb Garret in the roof space of St Thomas Church.
Old Speech Room Gallery & Museum, Harrow School
Exhibitions from the School's varied and distinguished collection of antiquities and fine art, designed and curated by the school's pupils. Open term-time only
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Percival David Collection of Chinese Art
The finest collection of Chinese ceramics outside China, including exceedingly rare items, collected by the late Sir Percival David. Formerly housed in premises on Gordon Square, and now on permanent loan to the British Museum.
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, University College London
Kempton Great Engines, Hounslow
An historic engine house containing two steam engines and steam turbines, one of which - 'The Sir William Prescott' - is the world's largest fully operational Triple Expansion Steam Engine.
Kennel Club Art Gallery
The largest collection of dog paintings in Europe, shown in a series of temporary exhibitions.
Kenwood House
Stately home on Hampstead Heath, remodelled by Adam in the 18th Century, and home to the Iveagh Bequest which includes masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner & Gainsborough, plus the Suffolk collection of rare Elizabethan portraits.
Kew Bridge Steam Museum
A collection of giant pumping engines & a working steam locomotive in a Victorian waterworks on the Thames, which together demonstrate the major developments in steam engine technology.
Kew Transport Museum (no website)
A collection of specialised and unusual public and private vehicles from across the British Isles. 110 North Road, Kew, TW9 3QA, Tel: 020 8332 0672
Kingston Museum
A local history museum presenting the area's ancient origins and the story of the 'Royal Borough', plus an important Eadweard Muybridge photographic collection.
Kirkaldy Testing Museum (no website - see the Wikipedia entry)
David Kirkaldy's huge Victorian testing machine for testing the strength of materials and structures, plus many smaller more modern machines.
Open on the first Sunday of every month, 11am-3pm 99 Southwark High Street, Southwark, SE1 0JF
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Lambeth Palace Library
The historic library and record office of the Archbishops of Canterbury and principal repository of the documentary history of the Church of England, plus annual public exhibitions. Limited opening
Leighton House Museum
Home and studio of leading Victorian artist, Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896). A 'private palace of art', and one of the most remarkable buildings of the 19th century.
Linley Sambourne House - see 18 Stafford Terrace
Little Holland House, Sutton
Former home of Frank R. Dickinson (1874-1961), artist, designer and craftsman, who built, furnished and decorated his house in the English Arts & Crafts style between 1902-4, following the teachings and philosophies of William Morris and John Ruskin. Very limited opening
London Bridge Museum Peter Jackson Collection
Models and memorabilia relating to London Bridge old and new, collected by Peter Jackson OBE (NB: part of the London Bridge Experience)
London Canal Museum
A historic canal-side ice warehouse with displays telling the story of London's canals, boats and workers, plus the history of London's ice trade and ice cream!
London Film Museum (formerly known as The Movieum)
Costumes, props and sets from famous films, movie and TV memorabilia, plus the history of the British film industry and an animation gallery.
London Fire Brigade Museum
A Victorian fire station and collection of historical fire engines, plus displays on the Great Fire of London and fire fighting in World War II.
By appointment only
London Jewish Museum of Art - see Ben Uri Art Gallery
London Motor Museum, Hayes
Vintage classic cars alongside radical custom vehicles: over 100 vehicles from the 1930s to the present day.
London Motorcycle Museum, Greenford
A fine collection of British Motorcycles including rare and experimental models, plus exhibits relating to Britain's biking history and heritage.
Limited opening
London Scottish Regimental Museum
Displays on campaigns, uniforms and equipment, clan shields, and paintings, located in the drill hall at Regimental Headquarters. By appointment only
London Sewing Machine Museum
A collection of 600 machines, charting the history of the sewing machine from 1850 to 1950, including rare and royal machines. Located within the Wimbledon Sewing Machine Company. Very limited opening or by appointment
London Transport Museum
London's transport heritage presented with vehicles, signs, models, uniforms and photographs, plus artwork and a celebrated poster collection.
London Transport Museum Depot, Acton
The London Transport Museum's collections which are not on display in the main museum (see above). Open to the public for monthly guided tours and themed open weekends.
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Magic Circle Museum
Treasures and memorabilia relating to the 'history of mystery', including handcuffs used by Harry Houdini and the magic props used by HRH Prince Charles. Limited opening, by appointment only
Mansion House
Residence of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, with magnificent interiors and elegant furniture, a superb collection of plate, and the Harold Samuel Collection of 17th century Dutch paintings. Limited opening
Marianne North Gallery, Kew Gardens
The remarkable landscape and botanical art collection of the pioneering Marianne North is housed in a beautiful Victorian building within Kew Gardens. It is the only permanent solo exhibition by a female artist in Britain.
Markfield Beam Engine and Museum, Tottenham
A fine example of a Victorian steam powered pumping engine, housed in its original engine house in the former sewage treatment works for Tottenham.
Limited opening
Marx Memorial Library & Lenin Room
A unique institution holding 150,000 socialist volumes, with historic reading and meeting rooms, plus the room where Lenin worked during his exile in London. Also home of the 'Printer's Collection'.
MCC Museum at Lord's
The world's oldest sporting museum, home of 'The Ashes', and a world-class collection of cricketing artefacts both historic and contemporary.
Merton Heritage Centre
A local history museum telling the story of Merton and its people through a changing programme of displays and events.
Met Collection, History of the Metropolitan Police
Historical artefacts, including uniform and equipment, relating to the Metropolitan Police from the start of the service in 1829, through the development of modern policing, to the present day.
Metropolitan Water Board Railway Society, Hanworth Loop
A project aiming to restore the narrow gauge line that once connected the great pumping engines at Kempton to the Thames.
Very limited opening (occasional public open days)
Mosquito Aircraft Museum - see De Havilland Aircraft Heritage Centre
Motorsport Museum - see Brooklands Museum of British Motorsport & Aviation
Movieum - see London Film Museum
Museum at the Royal Institution (Faraday Museum)
Explore the world-changing science that's happened at the RI since 1799, including Faraday's magnetic laboratory of the 1850s and a current state-of-the-art nanotechnology lab.
Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising
A collection of 12,000 items from the Robert Opie Collection, charting this history of consumer culture through brands and packs, posters and adverts, fads and fashions, toys and games.
Museum of British Military Music, Kneller Hall, Twickenham
The home of British Army music with a collection of instruments ranging from bugles to saxophones, and a display of related articles, paintings and photographs. By appointment only
Museum of Croydon
The story of Croydon from 1800 to the present day, located in the Croydon Clocktower building, plus an art collection and the Riesco Collection of Chinese pottery.
Museum of Economic Botany 'Plants+People', Kew Gardens
Selections from Kew's fascinating economic botany collections, including 'Healing plants', 'Sugar and spice', 'Plants for energy' and 'To dye for'.
Museum of Garden History - see Garden Museum
Museum of Immigration and Diversity - see 19 Princelet Street
Museum of London
The fascinating story of the world's greatest city from prehistoric times to the present day.
Museum of London Docklands
London's long history as a port and one of the world's great trading cities, told through stories of trade, migration and commerce.
Museum of Methodism, Wesley's Chapel & John Wesley's House
The history of Methodism from John Wesley to the present day, and its contribution to shaping Britain's political and social history.
Museum of Musical Instruments, Royal College of Music
An internationally renowned collection of over 800 instruments and accessories from c.1480 to the present, plus portraits and other paintings.
Museum of Richmond
The rich heritage of Richmond, Ham, Petersham and Kew from mediaeval times to the present day.
Museum of the Order of St. John
The Order's 900 year history of caring, from the Crusades through to its role today with St John Ambulance, located in a historic gateway and church.
Museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society
The history of British pharmacy and healthcare, including medicines, dispensing equipment and containers, photos and caricatures.
Musical Museum, Brentford
One of the world's foremost collections of automatic instruments, from the tiny clockwork Musical Box to the self playing 'Mighty Wurlitzer', plus a concert hall.
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National Army Museum
The story of the British Army, the men and women who have served in it past and present, and its role in shaping the world we live in today.
National Gallery
The national collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world.
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
The world's largest maritime museum with a vast collection relating to the sea, ships, astronomy and time. Part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site.
National Portrait Gallery
Portraits of the most famous people in British history, from the 16th century to the present day. The world's largest collection of personalities and faces in paintings, sculpture, prints and photography.
Natural History Museum
A beautiful landmark building housing the largest and most important natural history collection in the world, from microscopic slides to mammoth skeletons, plus important geological collections and - of course - dinosaurs!
New London Architecture - see Building Centre
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Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret
The oldest surgical operating theatre in Europe, uniquely located in the Herb Garret in the roof space of St Thomas Church.
Old Speech Room Gallery & Museum, Harrow School
Exhibitions from the School's varied and distinguished collection of antiquities and fine art, designed and curated by the school's pupils. Open term-time only
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Percival David Collection of Chinese Art
The finest collection of Chinese ceramics outside China, including exceedingly rare items, collected by the late Sir Percival David. Formerly housed in premises on Gordon Square, and now on permanent loan to the British Museum.
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, University College London
One of the greatest collections of Egyptian and Sudanese archaeology in the world, from prehistory through to the Islamic period.
Plants+People, Kew Gardens - see Museum of Economic Botany
Polish Institute & Sikorski Museum
Material relating to the Polish Armed Forces during World War II in the west, drawn particularly from the papers and memorabilia of General Sikorski (1881-1943). Limited opening
Pollock's Toy Museum
An atmospheric collection of nearly every kind of toy imaginable from all over the world, with visual delights and surprises around every corner.
Printers' Collection
The records, memorabilia and historic artefacts of the printing trade unions of the UK and Ireland, housed in the Marx Memorial Library.
By appointment only
Pumphouse Educational Museum (Rotherhithe Heritage Museum)
Local history collections tracing Rotherhithe's history from Roman times to the present day, including a unique collection of objects found on the Thames foreshore, also the Lavender Pond & Nature Park. Weekdays only
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Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge
Constructed in 1543, this Tudor hunting lodge has displays on Tudor foods, carpentry joints and costume, and offers great views over Epping Forest.
Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
Changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection of art, artefacts and treasures collected over the past 500 years.
Queen's House, Greenwich
Part of the National Maritime Museum, the Queen's House dates to 1616 and houses the museum's fine art collection and some original 17th-century furniture.
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Ragged School Museum
Housed in a former Dr. Barnardo's Ragged School, with exhibits on Ragged Schools, Victorian education, the history and culture of the East End, plus a re-created Victorian classroom.
Ranger's House (Wernher Collection), Greenwich
An elegant Georgian villa in Greenwich Park which houses the fabulous Wernher Collection of silver and jewels, paintings and porcelain, amassed by diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher (1850-1912).
Redbridge Museum, Ilford
A local history collection of archaeology, objects from 1800 to the present, oral history and film.
Rotherhithe Heritage Museum - see Pumphouse Educational Museum
Royal Academy of Arts
A superb venue for art exhibitions of international importance and the annual Summer Exhibition, plus highlights from the Academy's major permanent collection of works by Royal Academicians past and present.
Royal Academy of Music Museum & Collections
Exhibits from the Academy's world-renowned collection of instruments, manuscripts, objects and images, plus regular live demonstrations on the historic pianos.
Royal Air Force Museum, Hendon
A world-class display of over 100 aircraft in several exciting and interactive exhibitions, from early aircraft designs through to the modern day jets and military aircraft. Plus military aviation artwork, medals and uniforms.
Royal Armouries, Tower of London
A vast collection of arms, armour and artillery dating from antiquity to the present day, including royal armours, an exceptional collection of oriental arms and armour, and fine and decorative art.
Royal British Legion Poppy Factory Museum
Explore the history of the remembrance poppy and take a tour of the poppy factory, staffed by disabled ex-Service men and women. Booking recommended
Royal College of Physicians Museum
Portraits and paintings, silverware and decorative arts, plus the Symons Collection of medical instruments, the Hoffbrand Collection of apothecary jars and the Prujean Collection.
Royal Fusilier Museum - see Fusilier Museum
Royal Gunpowder Mills
The story of this once secret site, plus the history of explosives, the development of rockets, an extensive armoury and many more displays. Also a nature trail and living history events.
Royal Hospital Chelsea Museum
Medals and artefacts left by deceased In-Pensioners, a reconstruction of a typical Royal Hospital berth, objects associated with the Duke of Wellington, and a number of paintings and portraits.
Royal London Hospital Museum & Archives
The hospital's history since its foundation in 1740, including former nurse Edith Cavell, the 'Elephant Man', a display on forensic medicine, and hospital artefacts and works of art.
Royal Mail Archive
The written records of Royal Mail, the GPO and the Post Office, plus stamps, posters, photos and a small display of highlights of the collection.
Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
The Royal Mews is a working stable and houses the State vehicles, both horse-drawn carriages and motor cars, used for State occasions and official engagements, including the magnificent Gold State Coach.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World, plus astronomy and time galleries, London's only planetarium, the Harrison timekeepers and the UK's largest refracting telescope.
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St Bartholomew's Hospital Museum & Archives
The story of this renowned hospital, founded in 1137, told with video, sound recordings, historic documents and objects such as uniforms, surgical and medical equipment and works of art.
'Save the World Army' Museum, Salvation Army International Heritage Centre
An innovative mix of display panels, objects, interactives and videos bring to life the story of the international Salvation Army.
Science Museum
Interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring objects from aeroplanes to microchips, plus an IMAX 3D Cinema. The collections chart scientific, technological and medical change from the 18th century to the present day and beyond.
Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition
The life of Shakespeare, the London where he lived, and the theatre for which he wrote, plus guided tours of the reconstructed Globe Theatre.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
A recreation of the fictional 221b Baker Street where, according to the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes lived between 1881 and 1904.
Sir John Soane's Museum
An extraordinary collection of antiquities and works of art collected by Sir John Soane (1753-1837), displayed in the house he designed and lived in.
Smythson Stationery Museum
40 New Bond Street, London W1S 2DE Tel: 020 7629 8558 Company website: http://www.smythson.com/ The history of the Smythson Company, suppliers of stationery to the rich and famous, located at the rear of their Bond Street shop.
Soseki Museum in London (website in Japanese only)
Home of the distinguished Japanese novelist Natsume Soseki, who lived in London from 1900 to 1902.
Opening times: February to September Wed & Sat 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm, Sun 2-5pm, last admission at 4.30pm. Closed November to January. 80b The Chase, London SW4 0NG. Tel: 020 7720 8718
Stephens Collection of Writing Equipment
The development of writing materials, and the history of the Stephens Ink Company and its patent 'Blue-Black Writing Fluid'. Limited opening
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Tate Britain
The national collection of British art from 1500 to the present day, including the Clore Gallery major display of Romantic art in Britain.
Tate Modern
International modern art from 1900 to the present day, housed in the magnificent former Bankside Power Station.
Thames Police Museum, Wapping
The history of the Thames River Police from its inception in 1798 to the present day, located within a working police station.
By appointment only
'The Vault', Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock London's treasure trove of rock memorabilia, including guitars owned by Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards and Eric Clapton, John Lennon's hand-corrected lyrics for 'Imagine' and Madonna's bustier from her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour.
Tower Bridge Exhibition
An exhibition on the River Thames plus Victorian engine rooms, inner workings and high-level walkways in the most famous bridge in the world!
Twinings Tea Museum (no website - see Wikipedia entry)
A small museum charting the history of tea and the Twinings Tea Company, located in the back of the shop where the company was founded in 1706.
216 The Strand, London WC2R 1AP, Tel: 020 7353 3511
Twickenham Museum
The history centre for the Twickenham area, in particular the relationship with the River Thames and riverside activities.
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University College London Art Collections
Changing exhibitions in the Strang Print Room are drawn from UCL's collection of over 10,000 fine art objects, plus a study collection accessible by appointment.
University College London Geology Collections
The Rock Room displays rocks, minerals and fossils, including some of historical importance. Also the Planetary Science Collection.
Limited opening
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Valence House Museum, Dagenham
Local history of Barking and Dagenham throughout the ages, housed in a medieval manor house. Plus a film room, herb garden and 'Dig for Victory' plot.
Vestry House Museum
The local history of Waltham Forest, housed in a historic building and including a Victorian police cell and a Bremer car - perhaps the oldest British-built petrol driven car.
Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)
The world's greatest museum of art and design, including architecture, Asia and performing arts galleries. The venue for major decorative arts exhibitions.
V&A Museum of Childhood - (formerly Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood)
The national collection of childhood-related objects, one of the finest in the world. Including toys, dolls, dolls' houses, games, puppets, nursery items, children's clothing and furniture from 1600 to the present day.
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Wallace Collection
One of Europe's finest collections of works of art, paintings, furniture, arms & armour and porcelain from the 15th to 19th centuries, in a historic London town house.
Walthamstow Pump House Steam & Transport Museum / Lea Valley Experience
Displays, vehicles and technological and industrial artefacts relating to the Lea Valley's heritage of industrial invention and innovation over two centuries.
Limited opening
Wandle Industrial Museum
Displays on the history of the River Wandle and the industries that used the river's power, including various types of mills, William Morris's works and Liberty of Regent Street. Limited opening
Wandsworth Museum
Local history collections depicting Wandsworth's Natural Landscape, Cultural Landscape and Human Story.
Wellcome Collection
Galleries and exhibits exploring the connections between medicine, life and art in the past, present and future. Diverse exhibitions that will make you view science in a completely new way.
Wellington Museum - see Apsley House
Wembley Stadium
Historical treasures relating to British football (soccer) and a behind-the-scenes tour at the most famous stadium in the world.
Wernher Collection - see Ranger's House
Westminster Abbey Museum
A unique collection of royal and other funeral effigies, plus treasures including the saddle, sword, helm and shield of Henry V and a 13th century altarpiece, housed in an 11th century vaulted undercroft.
White Lodge Museum & Ballet Resource Centre, Royal Ballet School, Richmond
Displays on the daily life of students at The Royal Ballet School and the history and development of Classical ballet. Plus Margot Fonteyn's ballet shoe, Anna Pavlova's death mask, and school reports of famous alumni. Limited opening, by appointment only
Whitechapel Bell Foundry
The world's most famous bell foundry, Britain's oldest manufacturing company, and the makers of Big Ben and the Liberty Bell. Limited opening, booking essential
Whitehall Tudor House, Sutton
A Tudor timber-framed house with period rooms, local history collections and a display on Henry VIII's Nonsuch Palace, plus a walled garden.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Enfield
The museum of the Enfield & District Veteran Vehicle Trust includes vintage cars, fire engines, delivery trucks and motorbikes, plus a model railway, housed in a former pumping station and reconstructed faire station. Limited opening
William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow
Former family home of William Morris, influential 19th century arts and crafts designer, writer and socialist, displaying an internationally important collection related to his life, achievements and influence.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
A state of the art museum of tennis history and artefacts, including the Championship Trophies, a Wimbledon fashion gallery, interactive exhibits and a 200° cinema screen.
Wimbledon Society Museum of Local History
The 3000 year history of Wimbledon in pictures, words and objects. Limited opening
Wimbledon Windmill Museum
A restored early 19th century windmill with exhibits on windmills, rural life, local history and a display of Scouting memorabilia. Limited opening
Winston Churchill's Britain at War Experience
See, feel and breath what it was like to be in London during the Second World War, with realistic and factual exhibits and recreations.
Women's Library, London Metropolitan University
A cultural centre housing the most extensive collection of women's history materials in the UK, documenting women's lives from the 19th century to the present day, plus regular woman-focused exhibitions and events.
World Rugby Museum, Twickenham
The home of England rugby and the finest collection of rugby memorabilia in the world, charting the sport's origins through to the present day.
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Y
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Plants+People, Kew Gardens - see Museum of Economic Botany
Polish Institute & Sikorski Museum
Material relating to the Polish Armed Forces during World War II in the west, drawn particularly from the papers and memorabilia of General Sikorski (1881-1943). Limited opening
Pollock's Toy Museum
An atmospheric collection of nearly every kind of toy imaginable from all over the world, with visual delights and surprises around every corner.
Printers' Collection
The records, memorabilia and historic artefacts of the printing trade unions of the UK and Ireland, housed in the Marx Memorial Library.
By appointment only
Pumphouse Educational Museum (Rotherhithe Heritage Museum)
Local history collections tracing Rotherhithe's history from Roman times to the present day, including a unique collection of objects found on the Thames foreshore, also the Lavender Pond & Nature Park. Weekdays only
Q
Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge
Constructed in 1543, this Tudor hunting lodge has displays on Tudor foods, carpentry joints and costume, and offers great views over Epping Forest.
Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
Changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection of art, artefacts and treasures collected over the past 500 years.
Queen's House, Greenwich
Part of the National Maritime Museum, the Queen's House dates to 1616 and houses the museum's fine art collection and some original 17th-century furniture.
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Ragged School Museum
Housed in a former Dr. Barnardo's Ragged School, with exhibits on Ragged Schools, Victorian education, the history and culture of the East End, plus a re-created Victorian classroom.
Ranger's House (Wernher Collection), Greenwich
An elegant Georgian villa in Greenwich Park which houses the fabulous Wernher Collection of silver and jewels, paintings and porcelain, amassed by diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher (1850-1912).
Redbridge Museum, Ilford
A local history collection of archaeology, objects from 1800 to the present, oral history and film.
Rotherhithe Heritage Museum - see Pumphouse Educational Museum
Royal Academy of Arts
A superb venue for art exhibitions of international importance and the annual Summer Exhibition, plus highlights from the Academy's major permanent collection of works by Royal Academicians past and present.
Royal Academy of Music Museum & Collections
Exhibits from the Academy's world-renowned collection of instruments, manuscripts, objects and images, plus regular live demonstrations on the historic pianos.
Royal Air Force Museum, Hendon
A world-class display of over 100 aircraft in several exciting and interactive exhibitions, from early aircraft designs through to the modern day jets and military aircraft. Plus military aviation artwork, medals and uniforms.
Royal Armouries, Tower of London
A vast collection of arms, armour and artillery dating from antiquity to the present day, including royal armours, an exceptional collection of oriental arms and armour, and fine and decorative art.
Royal British Legion Poppy Factory Museum
Explore the history of the remembrance poppy and take a tour of the poppy factory, staffed by disabled ex-Service men and women. Booking recommended
Royal College of Physicians Museum
Portraits and paintings, silverware and decorative arts, plus the Symons Collection of medical instruments, the Hoffbrand Collection of apothecary jars and the Prujean Collection.
Royal Fusilier Museum - see Fusilier Museum
Royal Gunpowder Mills
The story of this once secret site, plus the history of explosives, the development of rockets, an extensive armoury and many more displays. Also a nature trail and living history events.
Royal Hospital Chelsea Museum
Medals and artefacts left by deceased In-Pensioners, a reconstruction of a typical Royal Hospital berth, objects associated with the Duke of Wellington, and a number of paintings and portraits.
Royal London Hospital Museum & Archives
The hospital's history since its foundation in 1740, including former nurse Edith Cavell, the 'Elephant Man', a display on forensic medicine, and hospital artefacts and works of art.
Royal Mail Archive
The written records of Royal Mail, the GPO and the Post Office, plus stamps, posters, photos and a small display of highlights of the collection.
Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
The Royal Mews is a working stable and houses the State vehicles, both horse-drawn carriages and motor cars, used for State occasions and official engagements, including the magnificent Gold State Coach.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World, plus astronomy and time galleries, London's only planetarium, the Harrison timekeepers and the UK's largest refracting telescope.
S
St Bartholomew's Hospital Museum & Archives
The story of this renowned hospital, founded in 1137, told with video, sound recordings, historic documents and objects such as uniforms, surgical and medical equipment and works of art.
'Save the World Army' Museum, Salvation Army International Heritage Centre
An innovative mix of display panels, objects, interactives and videos bring to life the story of the international Salvation Army.
Science Museum
Interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring objects from aeroplanes to microchips, plus an IMAX 3D Cinema. The collections chart scientific, technological and medical change from the 18th century to the present day and beyond.
Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition
The life of Shakespeare, the London where he lived, and the theatre for which he wrote, plus guided tours of the reconstructed Globe Theatre.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
A recreation of the fictional 221b Baker Street where, according to the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes lived between 1881 and 1904.
Sir John Soane's Museum
An extraordinary collection of antiquities and works of art collected by Sir John Soane (1753-1837), displayed in the house he designed and lived in.
Smythson Stationery Museum
40 New Bond Street, London W1S 2DE Tel: 020 7629 8558 Company website: http://www.smythson.com/ The history of the Smythson Company, suppliers of stationery to the rich and famous, located at the rear of their Bond Street shop.
Soseki Museum in London (website in Japanese only)
Home of the distinguished Japanese novelist Natsume Soseki, who lived in London from 1900 to 1902.
Opening times: February to September Wed & Sat 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm, Sun 2-5pm, last admission at 4.30pm. Closed November to January. 80b The Chase, London SW4 0NG. Tel: 020 7720 8718
Stephens Collection of Writing Equipment
The development of writing materials, and the history of the Stephens Ink Company and its patent 'Blue-Black Writing Fluid'. Limited opening
T
Tate Britain
The national collection of British art from 1500 to the present day, including the Clore Gallery major display of Romantic art in Britain.
Tate Modern
International modern art from 1900 to the present day, housed in the magnificent former Bankside Power Station.
Thames Police Museum, Wapping
The history of the Thames River Police from its inception in 1798 to the present day, located within a working police station.
By appointment only
'The Vault', Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock London's treasure trove of rock memorabilia, including guitars owned by Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards and Eric Clapton, John Lennon's hand-corrected lyrics for 'Imagine' and Madonna's bustier from her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour.
Tower Bridge Exhibition
An exhibition on the River Thames plus Victorian engine rooms, inner workings and high-level walkways in the most famous bridge in the world!
Twinings Tea Museum (no website - see Wikipedia entry)
A small museum charting the history of tea and the Twinings Tea Company, located in the back of the shop where the company was founded in 1706.
216 The Strand, London WC2R 1AP, Tel: 020 7353 3511
Twickenham Museum
The history centre for the Twickenham area, in particular the relationship with the River Thames and riverside activities.
U
University College London Art Collections
Changing exhibitions in the Strang Print Room are drawn from UCL's collection of over 10,000 fine art objects, plus a study collection accessible by appointment.
University College London Geology Collections
The Rock Room displays rocks, minerals and fossils, including some of historical importance. Also the Planetary Science Collection.
Limited opening
V
Valence House Museum, Dagenham
Local history of Barking and Dagenham throughout the ages, housed in a medieval manor house. Plus a film room, herb garden and 'Dig for Victory' plot.
Vestry House Museum
The local history of Waltham Forest, housed in a historic building and including a Victorian police cell and a Bremer car - perhaps the oldest British-built petrol driven car.
Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)
The world's greatest museum of art and design, including architecture, Asia and performing arts galleries. The venue for major decorative arts exhibitions.
V&A Museum of Childhood - (formerly Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood)
The national collection of childhood-related objects, one of the finest in the world. Including toys, dolls, dolls' houses, games, puppets, nursery items, children's clothing and furniture from 1600 to the present day.
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Wallace Collection
One of Europe's finest collections of works of art, paintings, furniture, arms & armour and porcelain from the 15th to 19th centuries, in a historic London town house.
Walthamstow Pump House Steam & Transport Museum / Lea Valley Experience
Displays, vehicles and technological and industrial artefacts relating to the Lea Valley's heritage of industrial invention and innovation over two centuries.
Limited opening
Wandle Industrial Museum
Displays on the history of the River Wandle and the industries that used the river's power, including various types of mills, William Morris's works and Liberty of Regent Street. Limited opening
Wandsworth Museum
Local history collections depicting Wandsworth's Natural Landscape, Cultural Landscape and Human Story.
Wellcome Collection
Galleries and exhibits exploring the connections between medicine, life and art in the past, present and future. Diverse exhibitions that will make you view science in a completely new way.
Wellington Museum - see Apsley House
Wembley Stadium
Historical treasures relating to British football (soccer) and a behind-the-scenes tour at the most famous stadium in the world.
Wernher Collection - see Ranger's House
Westminster Abbey Museum
A unique collection of royal and other funeral effigies, plus treasures including the saddle, sword, helm and shield of Henry V and a 13th century altarpiece, housed in an 11th century vaulted undercroft.
White Lodge Museum & Ballet Resource Centre, Royal Ballet School, Richmond
Displays on the daily life of students at The Royal Ballet School and the history and development of Classical ballet. Plus Margot Fonteyn's ballet shoe, Anna Pavlova's death mask, and school reports of famous alumni. Limited opening, by appointment only
Whitechapel Bell Foundry
The world's most famous bell foundry, Britain's oldest manufacturing company, and the makers of Big Ben and the Liberty Bell. Limited opening, booking essential
Whitehall Tudor House, Sutton
A Tudor timber-framed house with period rooms, local history collections and a display on Henry VIII's Nonsuch Palace, plus a walled garden.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Enfield
The museum of the Enfield & District Veteran Vehicle Trust includes vintage cars, fire engines, delivery trucks and motorbikes, plus a model railway, housed in a former pumping station and reconstructed faire station. Limited opening
William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow
Former family home of William Morris, influential 19th century arts and crafts designer, writer and socialist, displaying an internationally important collection related to his life, achievements and influence.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
A state of the art museum of tennis history and artefacts, including the Championship Trophies, a Wimbledon fashion gallery, interactive exhibits and a 200° cinema screen.
Wimbledon Society Museum of Local History
The 3000 year history of Wimbledon in pictures, words and objects. Limited opening
Wimbledon Windmill Museum
A restored early 19th century windmill with exhibits on windmills, rural life, local history and a display of Scouting memorabilia. Limited opening
Winston Churchill's Britain at War Experience
See, feel and breath what it was like to be in London during the Second World War, with realistic and factual exhibits and recreations.
Women's Library, London Metropolitan University
A cultural centre housing the most extensive collection of women's history materials in the UK, documenting women's lives from the 19th century to the present day, plus regular woman-focused exhibitions and events.
World Rugby Museum, Twickenham
The home of England rugby and the finest collection of rugby memorabilia in the world, charting the sport's origins through to the present day.
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