The 5 Best British Museum Tours [2024 Reviews]

As the first national public museum of the world, the British Museum brings all kinds of cultures together with countless artifacts and historical accounts.

While there are plenty of incredible art museums in London, but if you’re a history buff like me, this is a can’t-miss! There’s a ton to see, however, so I highly recommend taking a proper tour to guide you through the most notable pieces.

I’ve carefully curated a guide to the 5 top tours of the British Museum out there, so you don’t have to worry about which ones are actually worth your time and money. Let’s jump right in!

Be sure to see our reviews of Thames Dinner Cruises , Windsor Castle Tours and Buckingham Palace Tours .

Best British Museum Guided Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best british museum private & guided tours for 2024.

  • The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max
  • Private Guided Tour of the British Museum
  • Kid-Friendly Private British Museum Highlights and Walk to Covent Garden London
  • The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour
  • British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour

British Museum Tour Reviews

1. the british museum london guided museum tour – semi-private 8ppl max.

  • Duration: 2.5 Hours
  • Departure: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
  • Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 1:30 & 5:00 PM
  • Includes:  Semi-private museum tour, no more than 8 participants, professional tour guide

London’s cultural landscape is like some type of treasure trove filled with intense history, art, and fascinating artifacts. The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max  experience is one of those top-tier tours that I wish I’d found out about earlier.

If you want an in-depth yet intriguing way to see the over 6,000 years of history under one roof, look no further!

The tour starts off by meeting the guide right outside the museum gates, where we instantly hit it off and were able to ask them any questions we had along the way.

They asked us about any specific interests we had, and as our group was limited to just 8 participants, it felt very intimate and fun. We then received a briefing of what to expect and the history of the museum, which really set the tone for a fascinating next few hours.

Our whole group was open to seeing pretty much anything and everything, so we started off by following our educated guide through the different rooms to see a wide array of impressive ancient and medieval exhibits.

The Rosetta Stone was so fascinating to me, especially because it essentially unlocked the ancient Egyptian world, from the language to their afterlife beliefs.

Expand To See More See Less

I’m a huge fan of ancient Greek sculptures, so being able to see the Parthenon sculptures was something of a dream – we even learned how a massive gold and ivory image of Athena used to stand inside the Parthenon!

What was really cool was that we easily had the best guide in the place, who spoke to us more like longtime friends and relayed information about each artifact in a way that was easy to comprehend.

They never made us feel like we should have a certain level of knowledge, and while our group varied in education about certain subjects he spoke to all of us in a way that made sense.

Overall, this was a great tour that I’d recommend to anyone of any age or background who’d like to explore the British Museum in an effective way.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. private guided tour of the british museum.

  • Duration: 2 Hours
  • Departure: Great Russell Street, London, UK
  • Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 2:00 & 5:00 PM
  • Includes: Licensed and insured guide, entrance ticket

I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely taken some boring museum tours throughout my life and don’t always look forward to them. Many times, I’ve just wandered through museums and hoped for the best by reading up beforehand on some of the sites I’m most interested in.

However, with tours like the Private Guided Tour of the British Museum , my mind was changed and I discovered that with the right guide the entire experience can be elevated.

Upon meeting our guide, I was instantly captivated by both her knowledge and skilled way of speaking while showcasing the best the museum has to offer.

Sometimes it just feels like you’re wandering around or the guide is making things up as they go, but that was not the case here. She was a true leader and clearly knew exactly what she was talking about and where to go, taking a seamless route that tied everything together, effortlessly.

Even though the artifacts from room to room vary wildly, she somehow weaved each piece of history together, relating the different civilizations and discoveries to the other.

It was a super cool way to see the museum and learn, especially as I am a big fan of world history!

I learned a ton of fun facts and larger concepts that I admittedly didn’t even know about prior to this tour, and I loved how she included plenty of lesser-known artifacts, too.

The museum is so massive, that it will not only save you time but frustration by going on a curated experience such as this tour, with a guide who has a ton of in-depth knowledge.

While the tour lasts only a few hours, it flew by even faster than expected thanks to the captivating stories regaled to our little group. While it is a bit more expensive, this is a small-group experience maxing out at 6 people, so it’s well worth it!

Search For Other London Experiences You May Enjoy

3. kid-friendly private british museum highlights and walk to covent garden london.

  • Duration: 3 Hours
  • Departure Time: 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM
  • Includes: Local guide, Professional Blue Badge guide, Private Tour

While the British Museum may not be the first sight that pops into your head when planning a trip with kids in tow, it’s actually perfect for curious young minds.

If that sounds like what you’re looking for, the Kid-Friendly Private British Museum Highlights and Walk to Covent Garden London Tour  is just the ticket!

Lead by expert guides who clearly have a knack for teaching and keeping younger people intrigued, this interactive tour is tailored specifically for children aged 6 to 12 years old. However, that’s not to say that it’s not for people older than that, or the information isn’t accurate.

In fact, I had a fantastic time and felt like this was some of the most fun I’ve ever had on a museum tour – as a child or as an adult!

The tour starts out with a warm welcome from your guide, who right off the bat created a space that made everyone feel comfortable enough to learn and ask any questions.

From Egyptian mummies and Greek sculptures to decoding hieroglyphics, this hands-on experience made these artifacts come to life.

As this is a private tour, you don’t have to worry about big groups and your guide will even help personalize the experience.

I know that moving through museums with kids can be a delicate manner, but our tour guide kept everyone so entertained that there wasn’t even a moment for them to think about “accidentally” touching something they weren’t supposed to or playing tag next to ancient artifacts.

They gave us a shortlist to the most popular sites, narrating each one with fascinating historical accounts in a way that younger kids can easily digest. If you’re looking to bring children to the British Museum, look no further, because this is the best tour of them all.

4. The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour

  • Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 1:30 and 5:00 PM
  • Includes:  Guided museum tour, tour guide

The British Museum holds around 8 million items – needless to say, you can spend quite a bit of time there if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

With The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour , you can rest easy knowing that your guide will create a custom itinerary designed around what you’re most interested in seeing!

These are the experts who know the museum like the back of their hand, maximizing your time in this absolute gem of an attraction.

Another huge pull for me with this tour was just how affordable it was for the sheer value received, making it one of those “biggest bang for your buck” experiences!

Lasting 2.5 hours, I wasn’t prepared for just how much I was able to see and learn about, at a pace that went smoothly and just made sense. This definitely isn’t one of those run-of-the-mill museum tours where the guide is just rattling off commonly known information!

We started out by meeting our guide right outside the museum gates, where they gave us a briefing on the history of the museum building and some of the most notable artifacts. We then got to head right inside, wasting no time to get to the best parts!

While the Rosetta Stone, mummies, and sculptures are absolute musts, I was surprised at the amount of amazing art!

Do not miss the drawings by Botticelli and Michelangelo, the Assyrian reliefs, the Lewis Chessmen, and much more! The tour consisting of carefully selected items was phenomenal, with our guide sharing tons of valuable, entertaining stories.

Our guide tailored our tour to lean a bit towards art as that’s one of my main interests, and I do recommend stopping by these exhibits! If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of what humans are capable of, let’s go!

5. British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour

  • Departure: 49 Great Russell St, London WC1B 3BA
  • Departure Time:  Varies
  • Includes:  Private expert guide, customizable tour

Are you looking for a tour that’s just a couple of hours long to try and fill your itinerary with a fun, entertaining tour experience?

If so, then check out the British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour  is completely customizable, so there’s no more dealing with monotonous tours that you didn’t sign up for!

Known as the “World’s Museum”, expect to see lots of big tourist attractions, along with plenty of “hidden” gems that most don’t get to see.

I met up with my guide right outside the museum, and while I chose to do a morning tour, there are tons of different start times available for added convenience. As it’s just a few hours long, I’d say it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest of itineraries!

Before we got started, he did ask me if I had any specific interests or preferences as to what we explore inside the museum, creating a customized schedule based on that.

I couldn’t believe how affordable this tour was when I realized that it was completely private, which ended up literally just being me and my guide.

It was like I had a best friend local to the area taking me around to all the sites I want to see while giving me a fun, intriguing narrative on each one. I was able to ask plenty of questions, and he answered each one with confidence which only enriched my experience further.

I felt that this tour was very comfortable with a pace that wasn’t too fast nor too slow, even taking breaks intermittently to rest and go for a coffee/pastry!

I can say with confidence that this guide knew just about everything in the museum, and on the private tour I felt comfortable asking anything that came to mind. I highly recommend this tour for anyone!

Tour Guides

The The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max is our Editors Choice for the best British Museum tour

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

  • London Walks
  • Museums and Galleries
  • Day Tours From London
  • Overnight Tours
  • Stonehenge Tours
  • Military Tours
  • Rambling Tours
  • Virtual Tours of Britain
  • Paris Day Tours
  • Day Tours from Paris
  • Overnight Tours of France
  • Normandy Tours
  • Airport Transfers
  • Rome Day Tours
  • Day Tours from Rome
  • Overnight Tours of Italy
  • Special Interest Tours

British Museum, Early Morning Private Tour

tours of the british museum

This tour is available in most languages. Select your language on checkout.

Share with friends

TripAdvisor

About The Tour

Early in the morning, before the museum is open to the public explore one or more of the British Museum’s fascinating collections. An intimate and atmospheric experience, this out of hours tour will allow you to wander through the UK’s most visited attraction without the crowds!

Whether you wish to navigate the history of the ancient Greeks or walk in the footsteps of pharaohs, you can immerse yourself in humanity’s greatest civilisations with this private tour of the British Museum.

You can choose one or two of the following galleries to visit with your expert guide:

The Enlightenment Gallery

On this tour you will discover the origins of the Museum’s collections and the collectors who have shaped history.

Ancient Egyptian Sculpture Room

Unearth the secrets of Ancient Egypt through the monumental sculptures of kings and gods.

Trace over 3000 years of impressive stonework, once displayed in temples and tombs and marvel at iconic works such as the colossal bust of Ramesses II and the word-famous Rosetta Stone!

 Ancient Greek and Roman Galleries

Journey through tales of the ancient Greeks, from the conquests of Alexander the Great to the fall of Rome. Learn about famous emperors and empires through a fascinating collection of mosaics, pottery, jewellery, coins, weaponry and sculptures from some of the most famous ancient buildings, including the Museum’s most controversial pieces, the Parthenon Marbles.

China and South Asia Galleries

Discover the stunning beauty of art objects from Ming dynasty porcelain to Indian marble. Explore history, culture and religions from 5000BC to the present day through paintings, prints, jade, bronze, sculptures and a sitar that belonged to Ravi Shankar!

 Japanese Galleries

Your guide will uncover the connections between Japan’s past and present, from traditional prints and samurai amour to modern art and contemporary manga. Discover the wonder and beauty of one of the most extensive collections of Japanese art and artefacts outside of Japan.

The maximum private group size is 15 people

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN.

British museum tour, mike picked us up in london at 4:30 am and drove us to stonehenge so that we would be in the inner circle at sunrise. it is there that i asked my one true love to marry me. (she said yes).

Frederick Lowther

Why choose us?

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

tours of the british museum

Follow us on our journey

TheUltimateGuideToVisitingTheBritishMuseumBanner

The Ultimate Guide to visiting the British Museum

British museum ultimate guide.

Visiting museums and taking free tours are two of the must-do experiences in London available for every budget! But if you only have time to visit one museum in London, then make it the British Museum. Not only is it one of the oldest museums in the world, it’s also one of the largest museums in England, and attracts more than 6 million visitors each year.

The museum was officially opened to the public on January 15th, 1759 (although it was first housed in the 17th century Montagu House before moving to its present location in Bloomsbury). The museum was founded thanks to the personal collections of Sir Hans Sloane (a famous physician, naturalist and collector), who collected more than 71,000 different objects during his lifetime.

Originally, the British Museum’s collection consisted of manuscripts, books, ethnographic material and various natural specimens and antiques (like coins, medals, prints and drawings); but over time, the museum expanded and today, it contains more than seven million objects which cover over two million years of history and culture.

Its departmental library has been around since 1860 and consists of 24,000 different items (with the oldest item dating all the way back to 1636); and its Assyrian collections even helped researchers decipher the Cuneiform script (an ancient script from the Middle East).

tours of the british museum

Visiting British Museum

The museum is separated into different galleries which are organized by periods of time in history or specific locations or countries in the world (such as Roman Britain, Ancient Iran and Greece, just to name a few).

Some of the many must-see items that shouldn’t be missed by any first-time visitor to the British Museum include:

  • The Rosetta Stone (an item which helped decipher various Egyptian hieroglyphics after they were discovered in 1799)
  • The Parthenon Sculptures (taken from the Parthenon in Athens)
  • Egyptian mummies and coffins (which are said to be one of the most comprehensive collections of Egyptian antiquities in the world)
  • The Anglo-Saxon Sutton Hoo ship burial relics (which date back to the 6th and early 7th centuries, and are considered to be some of the most important discoveries in British archaeology)
  • A human-headed winged bull monument (which was taken from a gateway in the citadel wall at Khorsabad)
  • Lindow Man (the preserved body of a man from the Iron Age or Romano-British period which was discovered in a bog near Cheshire in 1984)
  • The Lewis chessmen (a group of 12th century chess pieces which were made from walrus ivory)
  • Figures from The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus

tours of the british museum

Special Tips

tours of the british museum

Getting There

Recommended visiting time is at least three to four hours, but if you’re interested in joining some of the many different talks and tours at the museum, then be prepared to spend the entire day wandering around. However, if you’re short on time, you can pick up an audio guide at the Audio Guide Desk in the Great Court, and go on your own self-guided tour within two hours.

If you’re visiting with children, you can take part in the “Museum explorer trails” exhibition, which leads families on a “journey of discovery” to find some of the many treasures scattered all throughout the museum (The activity takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete).

Photography with flash and video recording is allowed in the majority of the galleries, but must be for private purposes only.

There is a main cloakroom located to the west of the main entrance, where you can leave some of your personal belongings so you don’t have to carry them around with you during your visit. Items over a certain weight and size will not be allowed into the museum, and will have to be kept at the luggage facilities at major rail stations like King’s Cross, Charing Cross and Euston.

There are toilet facilities on every floor of the museum, as well as in The Gallery Cafe and Court Cafes on the ground floor, and The Court Restaurant on the upper floor.

For those with mobility issues, there are benches and stools located in the Great Court, and there is some seating available in selected galleries as well.

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The British Museum1

Ticket Costs

The British Museum is free to enter, and is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day (but closes at 8:30 p.m. on Fridays).

If you’re interested in touching or holding some of the artefacts in the museum, there are object handling sessions which take place at the Hands-On Desks between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

There are a variety of 30 to 40-minute tours which take place throughout the day, and meet at the relevant gallery. The tours range in topic from Ancient Greece, South Asia and the Art of the Middle East, and usually take place between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. For more information, be sure to check out the British Museum’s official website before you visit, as the dates, subjects and times fluctuate throughout the year.

There are also different spotlight tours and lunchtime gallery talks with guest speakers which take place throughout the week, and tend to focus on specific themes such as The Rosetta Stone or The Enlightenment. For more information or to get more details about any tour or talk, check the official website before you visit.

If you want to go on a self-guided tour, there is a multilingual audio app you can download from Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. It costs £4.99 per language or between £1.99 and £2.99 for themed tours.

If you want to take part in the Museum explorer trails, you can collect your free trail guide from the Families Desk in the Great Court, but only on the weekends or any day during Camden school holidays between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

If you are visiting the British Museum, you might want to check out the list of free tours in London that run daily.

tours of the british museum

Free Tours in Your Language

{imgAlt}

British Museum Guided Tour in London

Admire this world-famous historic collection with the help of an expert guide.

Planning to visit the British Museum while you’re in London, but overwhelmed by where to start? With such an extensive collection of artifacts, it can be hard to know how to navigate this world-famous venue. On this 2-hour tour, your licensed guide will lead you through the expansive museum’s most impressive highlights, detailing the fascinating history behind each collection. After your tour, you’re free to continue exploring the rest of the museum’s many treasures on your own!

British Museum Guided Tour in London

  • Meet your guide outisde British Museum
  • Great Court
  • Enlightenment Gallery
  • Rosetta Stone
  • Parthenon sculptures​
  • Egyptian mummies​
  • Nereid Monument​
  • End inside the British Museum

Your 2-hour tour of the British Museum begins at the building’s main entrance, just past security. After meeting your knowledgeable guide and the rest of your friendly group of travelers, it’s time to dive right in. Marvel at the impressive ceiling of the Great Court, learn about the famous Rosetta Stone, admire the Parthenon Sculptures, and explore the Ancient Egypt galleries. All the while, your expert guide will detail the fascinating history behind each collection. After the tour, feel free to continue exploring the rest of the museum’s extensive collections on your own!

British Museum Guided Tour Description

Your 2-hour tour includes:

Knowledgeable, licensed guide

Informative walking tour through the museum’s key collections

The “Rosetta Stone,” Parthenon Sculptures, and the Winged Bulls from Khorsabad

Ancient Egypt galleries and Egyptian mummies collection

The roof of the Great Court

Learn about the history of each collection

Meet Your Licensed Guide

To begin your immersive tour through the iconic British Museum, meet your licensed guide at the main entrance. They’ll be waiting by the stairs after the security check, along with the rest of your group members. Once everyone has arrived, it’s time to begin exploring the museum’s expansive collections! Your guide is an expert and will lead you to the most impressive highlights of this world-famous museum while explaining the fascinating history behind each historical treasure.

Gaze at the Great Court

Your tour will begin immediately by admiring the spectacular glass roof of the Great Court. This two-acre space, which was designed by Foster and Partners, is considered the largest covered public square in Europe. After taking in the extraordinary ceiling, your guide will lead you to the legendary Rosetta Stone. While marveling at this historic granitoid stone, your informative guide will explain how it played a crucial part in understanding Egyptian hieroglyphics.

Visit Controversial Sculptures

Continue immersing yourself in ancient history as you make your way to the Parthenon Sculptures. Listen carefully while your guide explains the fascinating controversy behind these sculptures, as they were taken from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin, the former British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.

Admire Ancient Egypt

Next, follow your guide to the remarkable Ancient Egypt galleries, where your jaw will drop at the wide collection of Egyptian mummies and the Anglo-Saxon “Sutton Hoo” burial relics. Your guide will end the tour with the extraordinary Winged Bulls from Khorsabad, a breathtaking sculpture from ancient Mesopotamia, found at the entrance of the Assyrian galleries.

Following your tour, you’re free to continue exploring the rest of this historic museum on your own. The British Museum is massive, so there’s still plenty left to see!

" data-expanded-text="hide full description "> show full description

What you get with this tour

Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

3 total reviews

Our guide did not show up. We waited for 20 minutes on the steps after being two of the first to get onto the grounds on what was to become a very crowded day at the British Museum. This is the second time that a guide was a no show from The Tour Guy. Don't book with this company. They are not reliable. I am waiting for a refund.

Awesome tour

The way our tour guide put everything into a timeline and made us view history from a different perspective, as if we were there, is something truly unforgettable. Highly recommend!

I loved this tour!! I highly recommend taking this tour when in London. Wandering the museum on your own is enjoyable, but having your guide there to explain the history and mythology behind the pieces absolutely elevates the experience. 5 stars!

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Make sure to bring a valid ID and wear comfortable shoes.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in London.

Are tickets included in this tour?

The entrance for the British Museum is free, the tour includes 2-hour guided tour with a professional tour guide.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

Please keep in mind, this tour involves 2 hours of walking through the museum. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your mobility.

Is lunch included in the price of the tour?

No, but we're happy to recommend one of our favorite spots in the area, and your guide is sure to point you in the right direction too.

Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?

Kids are welcome on this tour, and children 3 and under join for free. Children aged 4-15 pay a reduced fee. Please choose accordingly during the booking.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point, on the museum stairs just past the security check.

Where does this tour end?

This tour ends inside the British Museum. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like and continue exploring the museum.

What is the cancellation policy of this tour?

You will receive a full refund if you cancel within 48 hours before the tour.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

You may also like

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Travel the River Thames by boat then dive into British history at London's famous fortress

( 346 ) From: $105.40

Skip the Line

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!

( 244 ) From: $205.30

Skip the Line

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Explore royal history at London's famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace's iconic ceremony

( 307 ) From: $99.85

New Tour

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Hear legends from a Guard in the Bloody Tower before your full tour of the fortress

( 14 ) From: $99.85

New Tour

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds

( 30 ) From: $108.78

New Tour

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

Fancy yourself as Royalty as you tour the State Rooms, Throne Room and Royal Collection.

( 10 ) From: $87.69

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private London in a Day Tour

Discover London's deep history at Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and the Changing of the Guard

( 5 ) From: $1,048.95

New Tour

Harry Potter Studio & Oxford from London: Magic Behind the Scenes

Roam the streets of Oxford, visit Hogwarts Castle, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

( 4 ) From: $218.67

New Tour

Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London

Explore the rich history of England with an ultimate historic experience covering three iconic sites

( 45 ) From: $238.65

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Enjoy coach travel, early entry to Windsor Castle, and a pub lunch on this action-packed day trip

as low as $207.63

Private Tower of London Tour

Private Tower of London Tour

Follow your private guide to London's most infamous fortress by way of River Thames cruise

( 14 ) From: $563.88

New Tour

Morning Food Tour Through Borough Market and London

Taste local delicacies, explore the neighborhood near the iconic Bridge, and end with a cold pint

( 4 ) From: $117.66

Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Journey back in time to experience the mysteries of ancient stones and historic Roman baths

( 1 ) From: $133.20

Exclusive Churchill War Rooms and Westminster World War II Tour

Exclusive Churchill War Rooms and Westminster World War II Tour

Skip the Line Churchill's War Rooms and Westminster Small Group Tour

Explore the preserved Secret Bunkers in London, where D-Day and the fall of Hitler were planned

( 10 ) From: $98.79

New tour

Soho Eats: A Delicious Evening Walking Tour

Uncover the history of rock-n-roll in London while sampling delicious local food

( 4 ) From: $170.94

Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye

Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye

Avoid lines and witness the storied sites of royal ceremonies, then soar above the London skyline

From: $169.83

New Tour

Kensington Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

Enjoy an intimate tour of Kensington Palace Gardens that ends with traditional English High Tea

( 3 ) From: $155.40

New Tour

Downtown London Donut Crawl: A Sweet Journey Through the City

A tasty tour through Historic Borough Market and beyond

From: $60.00

Water Activity

Water Activity

The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

Experience Big Ben, Tower Bridge & More in Thrilling Fashion with a Small Group

( 8 ) From: $77.70

Private Tour

Private Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard Tour

Dive deep into London's history at the famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace

( 1 ) From: $559.44

The Making of Harry Potter Studios with Exclusive Champagne Reception

The Making of Harry Potter Studios with Exclusive Champagne Reception

Raise a glass in the Great Hall, wander down Diagon Alley, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

From: $260.85

Private London Highlights Black Cab Tour

Private London Highlights Black Cab Tour

Zip through London’s captivating streets as you explore the city’s top monuments, historic landmarks

From: $455.10

New Tour

Semi-Private Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

Discover the cinematic sorcery behind the world’s most famous wizard in this fully guided tour

From: $340.77

New Tour

Flavors of London’s East End: Small Group Food Tour

Check this vibrant neighborhood off your bucket list with local food tastings

From: $126.54

New Tour

Royal Hampton Court Palace Tour with Afternoon Tea

Immerse yourself in regal history as you tour the palace grounds and experience afternoon tea

( 1 ) From: $205.35

London Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

London Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

On a 35-minute flight, soar above Central London, the River Thames, and Surrey countryside

From: $976.80

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour From London

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour From London

Experience mysterious stone circles and quaint villages with a small group and expert guide

From: $149.85

New Tour

From London: Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of Oxford in a Small Group

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and immerse yourself in a historic university city

( 3 ) From: $251.97

Private Harry Potter Black Cab Tour Through London

Private Harry Potter Black Cab Tour Through London

See where the magic of Harry Potter came to life as you drive to Gringotts Wizarding Bank and stroll

Top tours customers bought with this tour:

Forbes Travel Guides

Thank you for letting us know how your experience was!

Tell us about your experience.

If you need to book more than 7 guests on this tour, contact us at [email protected] A travel Expert will get back to you to arrange all the details.

Europe is re-opening for visitors!

Want to see which small group tours are now operating ?

More tours added weekly!

See Open Tours

tours of the british museum

  • Travel Blog
  • In The Press
  • Help Center
  • Top Attractions

Policy & Terms

  • Cancellation Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • USA or Canada: +1 888 290 5595
  • Email: [email protected]

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover

© 2024 - The Tour Guy All rights reserved.

  • Top Destinations
  • Mexico City, Mexico
  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Paris, France
  • Rome, Italy
  • London, United Kingdom
  • All Destinations
  • Upcoming Experiences
  • Private Walking Tours
  • Small-Group Tours
  • Tours for Kids
  • Museum Tours
  • Food, Wine and Market Tours
  • Newly Added Tours
  • Audio Guides
  • Pre-Trip Lectures
  • Admin Dashboard
  • My Favorites
  • Cookies Preferences
  • Client Orders
  • Monthly Commissions
  • My Advisor Profile
  • Advisor Toolkit
  • Guide Dashboard

Credit Balance

Transactions are based on current exchange rates and performed in USD. There maybe slight variations in the price estimates.

British Museum Tour: A Guided Crash Course

tours of the british museum

  • Enjoy tailored insights and stories that cater to your interests, whether you're an art aficionado or a history buff.
  • Navigate thousands of years of history and explore exhibits you might not see on your own with a knowledgeable guide who brings artifacts to life.

Lawrence

  • You want to experience everything the museum offers with insights that go beyond what’s written on the plaques.
  • You’d like a personalized experience tailored to your interests, whether in art, history, or archaeology.
  • You're interested in exploring a collection that spans the globe, offering a deep dive into a myriad of cultures, from the ancient Greek masterpieces to the mysteries of Egyptian hieroglyphs and more.
  • British Museum
  • Depending on your group size, we may be required by the venue to order headsets, in which case you’ll see a “Headset Fee” added to your order. If you would like to guarantee headsets for your tour regardless of your group size, please email us and we’ll do our best to get them reserved for you.
  • There will be a break in the tour to stop and use bathroom facilities as well as opportunities to stop and rest along the way if needed. Please communicate any mobility needs or concerns with our team at the time of booking. 

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

  • Get the most out of your trip to the museum with a pre-trip talk: Must-See Treasures of the British Museum
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. While you’ll be inside, you’ll still be covering a lot of ground! The British Museum is one of the largest museums in the world, after all.
  • Grab your sketchpad and channel your inner artist. Drawing is allowed in the galleries.

tours of the british museum

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

See the British Museum with Context

Get to know one of the art historians leading this tour.

tours of the british museum

You May Also Like

Roman Remains in London Audio Guide

Roman Remains in London Audio Guide

Victoria and Albert Museum Tour: A Guided Crash Course

Victoria and Albert Museum Tour: A Guided Crash Course

National Gallery Tour: A Guided Crash Course with Skip-the-Line Tickets

National Gallery Tour: A Guided Crash Course with Skip-the-Line Tickets

London Auction Houses Tour: Decoding the Art Market

London Auction Houses Tour: Decoding the Art Market

Uncover the secrets of history with british museum tickets and a local expert, book a tour.

  • Our Experts
  • Working with Context
  • View All Cities
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Refer a Friend for $50
  • Travel Updates
  • Advisor Login
  • Expert Portal

Subscribe to our Newsletter

  • Privacy Statement & Security
  • Cancellation Policy

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Company Logo - Home Link

The British Museum Tour

tours of the british museum

The British Museum has one of the most important collections of historical artifacts anywhere in the world.

Famously, it can be visited for free on our Free British Museum Tour, but, with over 8 million objects it can be hard to know where to start and easy to get lost among the labyrinth of galleries and civilizations.

You can also watch this 1-hour virtual version of the British Museum's highlights .

Let our experts guide you through some of the museum's most famous and fascinating collections while we tell the story of the cultures and characters that produced them, and see how they shaped who we are today.

No tour of the British Museum is complete with controversy, fakes, and scandal - we don't shy away from the complexity!

Our 2.5-hour free British Museum tour visits all 6 of the inhabited continents and takes in 7 of the 'Unofficial' Top 10 objects in the British Museum.

You'll walk away from this tour fascinated and intrigued, with a greater understanding of the world's most famous museums, and museums in general.

Rosetta Stone British Museum

What’s Included on British Museum Tour:

  • The Museum's History and Architecture
  • Insider information from a museum professional
  • The Tara Statue and treasures of South Asia
  • The Rosetta Stone (or two....)
  • The Ife Head and Benin Bronzes
  • Trinidadian Moko Jumbie figures
  • The Assyrian Guards, and the Royal Game of Ur
  • Hoa Hakananai'a (Easter Island Moai)
  • The Parthenon Sculptures (Elgin Marbles) and its many controversies
  • The Younger Memnon (Ozymandias)
  • The Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon Ship Burial and Helmet
  • The Lewis Chessmen
  • First Nations Totem Poles from Canada's west coast
  • An Egyptian mummy's coffin
  • The 'FeeJee Mermaid"

Tour information

Reservations:   Click here to reserve .

WHERE: At the Rear Entrance to the Museum, the King Edward Entrance on Montague Place WC1E 7JW. (Please note this is not the main entrance). Your guide will be waiting outside the entrance by the Lion statue. ( map )

British Museum Meeting Point

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

When: View our full tour calendar .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for any budget.

Save even more money with a London tourist concession card . Be sure to check out our other tours in London .

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

tours of the british museum

Jessica O'Neill

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

In-Person Bible Tours

Join us in London and the British Museum for an exciting original tour

tours of the british museum

Do Not Fear The Assyrian

Examine the important role of the Assyrian Empire in Bible history and prophecy

tours of the british museum

Creation Safari On Demand

Watch 5 recorded episodes of safari at a time convenient for you

tours of the british museum

Gods & Idols: Avoid Worthless Worship

What can we learn from worthless worship in ancient times?

tours of the british museum

Daniel: Faithful in Wicked Babylon

Exploring archaeological confirmation of Daniel and evidence of his prophecies

tours of the british museum

Make A Good Name

What does history reveal about Esther, Abraham and the Divine Name?

tours of the british museum

We hope to see you soon in London at the British Museum, either in-person or on Zoom. We have offered in-person Bible Tours for many years, and in 2020 we began to offer virtual tours too. Our tours are available in many languages.

Virtual Tours

Our virtual tours offer the unique opportunity to take a Bible Tour of the British Museum or Kruger National Park in Africa from the comfort of your own home, in small groups that allow you to comfortably interact with your guide and with each other.

tours of the british museum

Our Virtual Tour Menu:

tours of the british museum

Do Not Fear The Assyrian: Part 1

This one hour virtual tour is an exciting look at the Assyrian kings and their role in Bible history and prophecy. Part 1 takes a chronological approach, exploring the Assyrian Empire from the perspective of the Israelite kings.

tours of the british museum

Do Not Fear The Assyrian: Part 2

This one hour virtual tour is an exciting look at the Assyrian kings and their role in Bible history and prophecy. Part 2 considers in detail the famous Bible account of King Hezekiah of Judah and King Sennacherib of Assyria.

tours of the british museum

Watch 5 recorded episodes of high quality Africa Safari with a professional JW guide explaining Jehovah's creation. Access the documentaries at a time convenient for you, including question & answer sessions, and bonus material.

tours of the british museum

This one hour virtual tour examines evidence of many of the false gods and idols worshipped in ancient times. Compare the Bible’s view of this worthless worship, and how we see very similar beliefs today.

tours of the british museum

This one hour virtual tour uses archaeology to explore famous names in the Bible, including the Divine Name, Abraham, Esther and more from the British Museum and beyond.

tours of the british museum

One hour virtual tour examining the historical detail behind Daniel’s accounts and life in Babylon on display here at the British Museum.

tours of the british museum

"The Truth Will Set You Free"

One hour virtual tour considering the pagan origins of many modern beliefs and traditions and the contrast we can see when comparing them to the truth found in the Bible.

tours of the british museum

Bible Highlights of the British Museum

This one hour virtual tour examines the most interesting artefacts on display here at the British Museum from a biblical viewpoint.

tours of the british museum

Kids Tour of the British Museum

Join us on this 45 minute Bible-based British Museum virtual tour, fun for the whole family! We have designed this tour specifically for children aged 7-12, although all young at heart are welcome!

tours of the british museum

Kids Africa Creation Safari

This one hour interactive Zoom safari has been designed for children aged 5-15, though there are points for all the family. Meet other young ones from around the world, fill in the worksheet, take part in polls, and answer questions!

tours of the british museum

Africa Creation Safari 2

A 60 minute virtual safari from South Africa. Your qualified guide will look into Bible animals, evolution vs creation, poaching, predators, and much more!

tours of the british museum

Africa Creation Safari 1

Our original 80 minute virtual Safari experience, this tour is much more detailed than our free live safari events, and it is very different to the Creation Safari 2 tour that we offer.

tours of the british museum

We are pleased to offer virtual tours in many languages. Available now in French, German, Spanish, Swedish, Czech and more!

tours of the british museum

In-Person Tours

Our in-person tours bring together our years of experience in the British Museum, central London and other nearby museums. With some of the largest collections in the world, the museums can be overwhelming and confusing, but our upbuilding themed tours help to bring them to life and shine a spotlight on the most relevant artefacts.

These tours are available to book now, we hope to see you in-person very soon!

Find Out More

tours of the british museum

Grand Tour of British Museum

This tour is intended for international visitors who wish to see most of the important artefacts on display in the British Museum). For a shorter tour, you can book just Part One of the Grand Tour.

tours of the british museum

God's Name Tour

Discovering the name Jehovah around the British Museum. 90-minute tour, also available in a 55-minute version for groups of 15 or more persons.

tours of the british museum

Origin of Christendom's Beliefs

Many tenets of Christendom's churches have pagan origins from Egypt and Babylon, including belief in an immortal soul, worship of trinities, worship of the cross, worship of a mother figure.

tours of the british museum

Origin of Writing & Language

Exploring the Mesopotamian galleries you will discover the origin of language as described in the Bible book of Genesis.

tours of the british museum

Ancient Stones Bear Witness

A comprehensive overview of many artefacts that show that the Bible is inspired of God, authentic and uniquely powerful.

tours of the british museum

God's Word is Truth

tours of the british museum

Full City Tour

This full day experience (5 hours) takes in a guided tour of the British Museum, a walking tour of the most famous parts of London and finishes with a boat trip on the River Thames.

tours of the british museum

Natural History Museum: Faith

Our team are working on exciting new ideas and improvements for this tour.

tours of the british museum

British Library

tours of the british museum

Greenwich: Time, Travel & Truth

Follow us on instagram, bring the family.

We offer many virtual themes, why not enjoy one together as a family, no matter where you are.

Meet Your Guides

Our experienced guides are all faithful baptised Jehovah's Witnesses, most serving as pioneers or elders.

See the Reviews!

Read the experiences from 1000's of friends all over the world.

Bible Tours

Email: [email protected] Phone: +44 7539 291 671 (Emergency only) Follow us on Instagram Please note we are not a full-time office.

Copyright © 2012-2024 All rights reserved. Bible Tours Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 11814549 Registered Address: Suite 1 Telford House, Warwick Road, Carlisle, England, CA1 2BT

Please enable JavaScript in your web browser to get the best experience.

Fine chalk drawing of a Renaissance nude male figure with one arm crossed over their chest bearing a flag and standard, while their other arm is raised in the air and bent at the elbow.

Audio-described tour

Michelangelo the last decades

Accessible event / 5 July 2024

Supported by

With additional support from

Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564), 'The Resurrection of Christ'. Chalk on paper, 1532.

Share the page

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on X (formerly Twitter)

Event information

5 july 2024.

18.00 –19.00

The Joseph Hotung Great Court Gallery

Sign up to our emails  and be the first to hear about upcoming events.

Join art historian and guide Lisa Squirrel for an audio-described tour of the Michelangelo: the last decades exhibition.  

In 1534, Michelangelo left Florence for Rome, never to see his native city again. He was 59, which many contemporaries regarded as old, but for Michelangelo this move marked the beginning of a dramatic new chapter which would fundamentally shape his experiences as an artist and as a man.  

This exhibition looks at the last 30 years of Michelangelo's remarkable life, when his return to Rome brought him new commissions and reunited him with some of his closest friends. Forceful preparatory drawings for the monumental Last Judgment fresco as well as the newly conserved cartoon of the Epifania will be displayed alongside studies for Michelangelo's grand architectural projects, including the rebuilding of St Peter's Basilica in Rome.  

This event is part of the public programme supporting the Michelangelo: the last decades exhibition (open until 28 July).  

Funding for the conservation of the Epifania cartoon was generously provided through a grant from the Bank of America Art Conservation Project.  

Booking information

  • Book now to secure your place.
  • Carers and Disabled people's companions do not need to purchase a ticket.
  • Assistance dogs are very welcome in the Museum.
  • Please meet at the Information Desk in the Great Court.
  • If you have any access requirements or need assistance booking this event, please email [email protected] or phone +44 (0)20 7323 8971.

Scheduled dates

{{ month }}, about the guide.

Lisa Squirrel is a blind art historian, tour guide and poet. Her love of history, art and museums began at a very young age. When she was five years old she gave impromptu tours at the Alvarado Adobe Museum in San Pablo, California. Lisa went on to study art history and English literature, and moved to the UK where she has been able to indulge her interest in and study of Pre-Raphaelite art and artists. For more than 10 years Lisa has been leading audio descriptive tours at the Tate and the Barbican.  

Magnify Bible Tours

Book an 'In Person' Tour in London!

In Person Tours have fully resumed now.

Will you be able to visit us soon? For groups of less than 10 individuals , in person tours are available on Saturdays in the British Museum (but contact us if you can only make a Sunday or weekday – we may be able to add you to a larger group!)

To request an in person tour, please use this form .

tours of the british museum

The “Virtual” Bible Tours  were very popular over the ‘lockdown years’ and we continue to offer them. 

Our “Virtual Tours” are not just streamed videos, but interactive with a “live” guide using Zoom . You will need a group of 5 or more adults – but they can be on multiple Zoom connections.

If you are interested in arranging a virtual tour please use this booking form .

tours of the british museum

For more details of the Bible Tours we provide, please click here .

All tours are available both in-person and virtually with the following exceptions….

In Person Only

Tour 10 – The Rise and Rule of the 7th World Power   (London Coach Tour)

Tour 11 – ‘Time Matters’ (Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London)

Tour 18 –  Observe Intently Jehovah’s Creation   (Colchester Zoo)

Virtual Only

Tour 7 – The Bible and Its Fight to Live!

Tour 14 –   “In an Awe-Inspiring Way I am Wonderfully Made”

Tour 16 –  “I Am Creating Jerusalem a Cause for Joy”

Although the guides are unpaid volunteers, we do need to charge a small amount for the Administration of the tours and 50p per adult being donated to the respective Museum/institution.

For virtual tours the cost is  – Adults £3.00 per tour, children (5-15 years) 50p per tour.

For in-person tours the cost is usually – Adults £5.00 per tour, children (5-15 years) 50p per tour , but some locations outside the British Museum charge entrance fees, so please check the individual tour details.

Please note that the telephone and email systems are not manned outside UK office hours.

Magnify Bible Tours

Magnify Bible Tours offer faith-strengthening tours for Jehovah’s Witnesses and their friends.–

Physical Tours: In total, we conduct 9 different tours at the British Museum (lasting about an hour each), a Bible tour at the Natural History Museum , London, as well as the Old Royal Observatory in Greenwich,  the British Library and now the Wiener Holocaust Library . We also conduct a tour in London from the group’s coach, and a walking tour at Westminster .

Virtual Tours: During the times of Covid restriction and lockdown, we created virtual versions of our tours, and were among the very first to offer virtual Bible tours to the worldwide brotherhood. These have proved to be very popular, and we now offer the nine different British Museum tours, two Natural History Museum Tours and the British Library tour on the Zoom platform. We will continue to provide virtual tours as well as the in person tours.

Our approach to all of our Tours is to develop scriptural themes  – which really is quite different. Our experienced guides are congregation elders and/or in full-time service and their expressions reflect a deep love for Jehovah.

Magnify Bible Tours’ aim is to build appreciation for Jehovah and his written word the Bible as well as to provide an environment in which to enjoy wholesome Christian association, ensuring that everyone who joins our tours finds the experience spiritually uplifting and refreshing. This requires that Tour operator, guide and visitor have the same objective – to give all credit to Jehovah and his organisation.  The tours are a great resource for family worship activities.

We would kindly request that you dress respectfully  (as you would for attending a meeting at the Kingdom Hall or engaging in field ministry if enjoying a physical tour). Jesus said his genuine followers would be in the world and yet no part of it. This is possible because they adhere to the high standards and principles set out in God’s Word. Jehovah’s Witnesses visiting the British Museum have gained an excellent reputation over the years for their orderly conduct and exemplary dress, giving a fine witness.

Magnify Bible Tours guides are pleased to conduct tours at the British Museum and other locations in London for Jehovah’s Witnesses and their friends.

Some guides have over 30 years of continuous experience as Tour Guides at the British Museum and have conducted thousands of tours – at the British Museum, British Library, Greenwich, Westminster, the City of London and the Natural History Museum in London, as well as drawing from their experience of conducting Bible tours in Egypt, Greece, Israel, Italy, Jordan and Turkey.

Did you know?

Supporting the british museum.

Magnify Bible Tours contributes 50p from every adult booking in support of the  British Museum,   Natural History Museum or British Library on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Jehovah’s Witnesses visiting from around the world who have booked a Tour with us – even for the ‘Virtual’ tours!

Our Bible Tours

tours of the british museum

Tour 1: "The Stones are Crying Out!"

tours of the british museum

Tour 2: Jehovah is a God of True Prophecy

tours of the british museum

Tour 3: This is History Written in Advance

tours of the british museum

Tour 4: Problems Faced by Early Christians

tours of the british museum

Tour 5: Who Is Jehovah!

tours of the british museum

Tour 6: 'Choose for Yourselves' (Joshua 24:14-15)

tours of the british museum

Tour 7: The Bible and its Fight to Live

tours of the british museum

Tour 8: Examples of Loyal Obedience - Of What Benefit to Us?

tours of the british museum

Tour 9: 'Keep your Eyes on the Prize'

Tower Bridge on the River Thames

Tour 10: The Rise and Rule of the 7th World Power

tours of the british museum

Tour 11: 'Time Matters'

tours of the british museum

Tour 12: United in a Disunited World

tours of the british museum

Tour 13: Hold Fast to What is Fine

tours of the british museum

Tour 14: In an awe-inspiring way I am wonderfully made

tours of the british museum

Tour 15: His invisible qualities are clearly seen

tours of the british museum

Tour 16: "I Am Creating Jerusalem a Cause for Joy"

tours of the british museum

Tour 17: Integrity and Courage – Jehovah’s Witnesses during the Holocaust

tours of the british museum

Tour 18: Observe Intently Jehovah’s Creation

Our tour types, latest from our blog, strengthened our faith in jehovah’s word and resolved our conviction to trust in jehovah.

British Museum Bible Tours

"That you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught…" (Luke 1:4)

British Museum Bible Tours

Bible Tour of the British Museum

Led by a Cambridge University PhD Student of Assyriology, a one hour tour focusing on the context of the Old Testament, from the Flood to Daniel and beyond.

Get in touch to arrange a tour – for you or a group (maximum group size is 8)

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Accept cookies?

We use cook ies  to give you the best online experience and to show personalised content and marketing. We use them to improve our website and content as well as to tailor our digital advertising on third-party platforms. You can change your preferences at any time.  

Popular search terms:

  • British wildlife
  • Wildlife Photographer of the Year
  • Explore the Museum

Virtual Museum: 13 ways to explore from home

Delve into the Museum from home with a virtual self-guided tour of the galleries, an interactive experience about Hope the blue whale and audio guides narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

1. Stroll around the Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature exhibition

Although the exhibition at the Museum closed on 3 January 2022, you can still step into an online world full of fantastic real-life and magical beasts. There are highlights, stories and games galore. 

Walk around the exhibition from home with a 360° virtual tour on Google Arts & Culture.

The entrance to the Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature exhibition.

2.  Take a deep dive into the life of a blue whale

Explore the rich history of Hope, the blue whale suspended from the ceiling in Hintze Hall. In this online interactive, see what her life was like in the ocean, find out how she got to her home in the Museum and get a behind-the-scenes peek of the Museum's collections.

Go one step further by viewing the skeleton in augmented reality (AR) with Google Arts & Culture. 

A spliced image showing the blue whale skeleton in the middle surrounded by tall shelves storing other taxidermy specimens.

3. Hang out with scientists online

Catch up on all the Nature Live Online talks featuring topical discussions with our scientists and cutting-edge research. 

Free event recordings. 

View of Earth from space.

Image:  NASA .

4.  Sound choices: listen to these podcasts

Every year the Museum attracts millions of curious visitors eager to learn about the natural world.

Bring that curiosity home, and learn more about natural history, science, and the world around you with these great podcasts. 

Khalil and Sandy looking at botanical specimens on the Museum's podcast, Wild Crimes.

5.  Let Sir David Attenborough guide you around Hintze Hall

Sir David's unmistakable voice and expertise on all things nature make him the perfect person to take you on a tour of Hintze Hall's star specimens (including the blue marlin), all from the comfort of home.

A large blue marlin specimen preserved in a tank in Hintze Hall.

6.  Go on a virtual tour of the Museum

Google Arts & Culture gives you access to 300,000 specimens within the Museum's collections, along with 35 digital exhibitions , virtual tours and an interactive gigapixel photo (so enormous you can zoom in on the tiniest detail) of Hintze Hall's gilded canopy. 

A screenshot of a 360 video of Hintze Hall showing thumbnail images of other galleries along the bottom.

7.  Flick through Wildlife Photographer of the Year images

Explore the exhibition at your own pace in this online gallery filled with stunning nature photographs. 

A photograph of a jellyfish with purple tentacles by Fabien Michenet.

8.  Watch us on the small screen

The Museum's stunning architecture has made it a popular choice as a filming location for everything from blockbuster movies to TV dramas.

Discover which films and television shows feature the Museum.

Paddington Bear at the Museum with Dippy in Hintze Hall.

Paddington (2014)

9. Examine a 3D model of Dippy's skull

Get up close to the skull of the Museum's iconic Diplodocus cast produced by our Imaging and Analysis Centre. See more 3D models on Sketchfab , including Darwin's fossil mammals and the Crystal Palace sculptures .

A 3D scan of Dippy's skull.

10. See illustrations from HMS Endeavour

Our collection of botanical illustrations from HMS Endeavour make up some of the most scientifically significant artworks in our archive. It features works by Sydney Parkinson .

A watercolour illustration parkinson

11.  Browse the Library and Archives digital collections

Dig deep into the archives, where you'll find scientifically important art, books, prints and manuscripts, including drawings by William Smith and brothers Franz and Ferdinand Bauer.

Illustration of two lorikeets perched on a branch by the Bauer brothers.

12. Uncover highlights from the collections

We've wrapped up some of the highlights from the collections on display including specimens from space , the spirit collection , Charles Darwin and the Treasures gallery .

Discover more stories from the collections  including stories from the Museum at Tring .

Archie the giant squid in the spirit collection.

13. Zoom in on beetles

Open the drawers and zoom in on 16 Coleoptera collections held at the Museum including those from Thomas Broun (1838-1919), David Sharp (1840-1922) and Charles O. Waterhouse (1843-1917).

Find out more about the  Entomology collections .

Coleoptera collection - colourful beetles

Virtual expeditions with our scientists

tours of the british museum

What is it like to go on a dino dig?

Explore an interactive story about Museum experts' adventure to Wyoming, USA, when they went off-grid in search of Jurassic dinosaurs.

tours of the british museum

Explore a 360 panorama of Antarctica

Join Dr Adrian Glover as he journeys to the site of a collapsed Antarctic ice shelf. Experience the awe-inspiring view from the ship deck.

Let the exploration continue

tours of the british museum

Enjoy nature on your doorstep

Find activities and ideas to occupy yourself and family at home, in your garden or local outdoor space.

Try this at home

tours of the british museum

Discover more stories from the collections

Uncover colourful stories behind the specimens, meet collectors and curators past and present and read about their contributions to our understanding of the natural world. 

tours of the british museum

Teaching resources

A range of downloadable educational curriculum-linked resources that you can adapt for home use.

Find out more

Don't miss a thing.

Receive email updates about our news, science, exhibitions, events, products, services and fundraising activities. We may occasionally include third-party content from our corporate partners and other museums. We will not share your personal details with these third parties. You must be over the age of 13. Privacy notice .

Follow us on social media

tours of the british museum

Embark On These 10 Best London Walking Tours For An Insightful Journey

F amous for being one of the most walkable capital cities in the world, London has plenty of things to do that vacationers can reach on foot. It is unusual to drive around the city center, and travelers who are new to the place will feel odd. Booking walking tours allows one to soak in the experience as they navigate through the city’s most iconic attractions. After all, the British capital existed long before there were any means of transportation. So, of course, strolling through the city’s charming streets is the best way of learning the long, fascinating history and exploring the beautiful culture of the locals. Embark on these 10 best London walking tours for an insightful journey.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Famous Landmarks In London

Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Westminster is home to some of the top-rated attractions in London , making it a must-visit for vacationers of all interests. The area boasts numerous historical sights that one can explore on a walking tour. Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour takes visitors through the city's attractions and then to Churchill's War Room, where they'll learn about the legend's life, including the incredible tactics he used to lead soldiers through WWII. During the tour, guests can explore the top 20 attractions in Westminster. The tour also includes a local fun guide and admission into Churchill War Rooms.

  • Tour: Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms
  • Duration: Three hours
  • Cost: From 483.64 per adult

Book this tour

See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!

Taking five hours to complete, this small group tour is one of the best London walking tours for an insightful journey. It takes travelers through a wide range of London's most iconic landmarks and comes with a guide who narrates the history of various places. This is much better than joining a bus tour, as it comes the guide offers personalized commentary. Some of the major stops throughout this tour include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Shakespeare's Globe.

  • Tour: See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Cost: $67.32

Ghost, Ghouls, And Gallows Walking Tour With Boat Ride

Offered by See Your City, Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride that allows vacationers to explore the bustling London by night, when crowds thin out. Visitors will enjoy learning about the city's dark history and later enjoy a cruise on the iconic Thames River, which comes with breathtaking views of London’s amazing landmarks . This tour gives an insight into a unique side of the city, and everyone will have a good time as they pass through the dimly lit parks.

  • Tour: Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride
  • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Cost: $32.67

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Want to explore Westminster for half a day? Well, Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry is one of the best walking tours to book in the area. It helps tourists discover some of London’s most famous buildings, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Downing Street, among others. The cost of the tour includes an entry ticket for Westminster Abbey, which means one doesn't have to stay in long queues to access Westminster Abbey. It comes with a local fun guide who narrates about the attractions and answers all queries that travelers may have concerning the points of interest. Book this tour to learn why Westminster is the place to see most of London’s landmarks .

  • Tour: Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry
  • Duration: Four hours
  • Cost: From $77.11

Book this tour Related: Tower Bridge: Why It's The Most Iconic Landmark In London

Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London

Nestled on the outskirts of London, Warner Bros. Studio is one of the best sights to explore during a visit to the British capital. This walking tour is one of the best in the city and takes vacationers through the studio, allowing them to explore the Harry Potter film sets, props, costumes, and more. One will enjoy plenty of fun activities during the tour, taking Instagrammable pictures and exploring the gift shop. Please note that the food, drinks, and gratuities do not come with this tour package. Travelers will have to fund these from their pockets.

  • Tour: Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Cost: From $143.76

London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

London has an incredible culinary scene, and with plenty of options to choose from, ensuring one’s gastronomic experience of the city is the best it could be is definitely daunting. Fortunately, London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours guarantees unforgettable memories of the city’s food scene. On this tour, visitors will get a chance to stroll through some of London’s best restaurants, especially around the Borough Market and London Bridge. Guests choosing this tour will enjoy personalized recommendations.

  • Tour: London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
  • Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Cost: From $11.09

British Museum Guided Tour

British Museum is the largest and one of the most iconic museums in the UK. British Museum Guided Tour lets visitors explore an incredible collection of impressive pieces from different parts of the world, including the Rosetta Stone, which is among the most celebrated works in the museum. One will also see relics from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Rome, and Ancient Greece. There is a local expert guide who takes travelers through the museum. Once the tour is done, vacationers are allowed to continue exploring the museum on their own.

  • Tour: British Museum Guided Tour
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Cost: $61.60

Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London

Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London is one of the best walking tours one can book in London. The tour takes vacationers back to the Victorian era, allowing them to learn the horrifying tales of how Jack the Ripper committed murders in the 1800s. The images of the period are projected on the buildings along the charming streets of Whitechapel to make the experience livelier. Want to experience London's mystery? The book Jack the Ripper tour with "Ripper-Vision" in London.

  • Tour: Jack the Ripper Tour with “Ripper-Vision” in London
  • Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Cost: $23.53

The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea

Want to enjoy some of the best high tea experiences in London? Book the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea, which gives vacationers an incredible opportunity to really soak in the British Cultural experience (high tea). High tea originated from British, and booking this tour will let one enjoy the history of the beloved beverage, as they explore the gorgeous gardens that were made by Prince Albert. At the end of the tour, travelers can finally have a taste of high tea, which comes with sandwiches, scones, and taste cakes. Looking for what to do in London ? Get through the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea tour.

  • Tour: The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea
  • Cost: $129.39

Book this tour Related: Best Hotels in London

Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour In London

Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour is one of the best walking tours in London for an unforgettable experience of the city. It walks vacationers through Central London at night, allowing them to explore plenty of spooky attractions. Visitors will stroll through the city’s dark streets and alleys as they listen to the haunting stories, which are part of the history of London. The tales include murder, crime, and mayhem stories. The tour passes through numerous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the tour ends.

  • Tour: Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour
  • Cost: $26.14

Embark On These 10 Best London Walking Tours For An Insightful Journey

IMAGES

  1. First Timer's Guide To The British Museum in London

    tours of the british museum

  2. Out-of-hours tours

    tours of the british museum

  3. Tours and talks

    tours of the british museum

  4. British Museum Tour

    tours of the british museum

  5. London British Museum and National Gallery Private Guided Tour 2024

    tours of the british museum

  6. British Museum Tour

    tours of the british museum

COMMENTS

  1. Tours and talks

    Tours take place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 11.30 and 14.00. Each tour has a capacity of 20 people. £14 per person. Recommended for adults and children aged 12+. Please note that the tour will visit a number of galleries on different floors and involves a considerable amount of walking. Find out more.

  2. Visit

    Explore more of the Museum with our object trails or try a selection of our Museum Missions. Take a self-guided tour of the Museum using our Audio app (available in various languages including British Sign Language). Download via the App Store or Google Play Store. Please bring your headphones with you or purchase earbuds from the Guide Desk or ...

  3. Out-of-hours tours

    This tour visits displays that include human remains. The British Museum is committed to curating human remains with care, respect and dignity. Find out more about our principles governing the holding, display and study of human remains. Galleries on this tour: Room 61: Egyptian life and death: the tomb chapel of Nebamun (The Michael Cohen Gallery)

  4. Spotlight tours

    This tour will give an overview of both collecting during this time and the founding of the British Museum in 1753. With 15 to choose from every day, get a free volunteer-led 40-minute introduction to specific areas of the collection. Stay late on a Friday and enjoy 20-minute free spotlight tours focusing on four iconic areas of the Museum ...

  5. How To Visit The British Museum in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

    British Museum Tours and Audio Guides. The British Museum offers a few different guided tours from their free 40-minute Eye-opener tour to their Around the world in 90 minutes tour covering the museum's highlights for £14 per person. Check the official website for booking details.

  6. The 5 Best British Museum Tours [2024 Reviews]

    British Museum Tour Reviews. 1. The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max. Tour Highlights: Duration: 2.5 Hours. Departure: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG. Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 1:30 & 5:00 PM. Includes: Semi-private museum tour, no more than 8 participants, professional tour guide.

  7. British Museum Tour

    Discover the highlights of the British Museum on a private two hour tour, or include the Museum on a flexible full day London day tour. The British Museum was founded in 1753 and today has approx six million objects from antiquity to today's i-pod from all around the world giving an insight into ancient cultures and civilisations. Our tour ...

  8. Around the world in 90 minutes tour

    The tours will begin at 11.30 and 14.00 and will last for 90 minutes. We advise that you get to the British Museum early to allow sufficient time to pass through security, as long queues can form. Please meet at the Information Desk in the Great Court about 10 minutes before the start of the tour.

  9. British Museum, Early Morning Private Tour

    About The Tour. Early in the morning, before the museum is open to the public explore one or more of the British Museum's fascinating collections. An intimate and atmospheric experience, this out of hours tour will allow you to wander through the UK's most visited attraction without the crowds! Whether you wish to navigate the history of ...

  10. Around the world in 90 minutes tour

    Free entry Great Russell Street London WC1B 3DG +44 (0)20 7323 8000

  11. The BEST British Museum Tours! Free Cancellation

    The BEST British Museum Tours in London! Step into the captivating realm of antiquity with our expert-led guided tours of the British Museum, where each artifact tells a story spanning centuries of human civilization. Embark on a journey through time as you explore iconic treasures like the Rosetta Stone, unlocking the mysteries of ancient ...

  12. London: British Museum Guided Tour

    18 Chester. 19 Newcastle. 20 Launceston, UK. See art and antiquities from around the world at the UK's largest museum. Take a 1.5-hour guided tour of the British Museum in London, and explore one of the oldest museums in the world. See relics from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, and Ancient Rome.

  13. How to explore the British Museum from home

    Explore the full range of online resources. 5. Immerse yourself with audio tours. To get expert insights into the collection, listen to Museum curators introduce the galleries - each snippet offers a tantalising overview to whet your appetite.

  14. Museum Tour

    4K HDR Museum Taster Tour 🇬🇧 - Inside the British Museum 🏛🪘- Discover two million years of human history & culture - Filmed MAY 2021The British Museum, l...

  15. British Museum from home

    You can continue to enjoy the British Museum at home. Explore the collection and tour the galleries via Google Street View. Plus get the inside story from Museum experts and guests through our online events , blog, podcasts, YouTube channel and social media . Please support the Museum through a direct donation, by becoming a Member or via a ...

  16. The Ultimate Guide to visiting the British Museum

    Learn how to visit the British Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, with free tours, tips and highlights. Discover the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Sculptures, Egyptian mummies and more in this ultimate guide.

  17. British Museum Guided Tour in London

    Your 2-hour tour of the British Museum begins at the building's main entrance, just past security. After meeting your knowledgeable guide and the rest of your friendly group of travelers, it's time to dive right in. Marvel at the impressive ceiling of the Great Court, learn about the famous Rosetta Stone, admire the Parthenon Sculptures, and explore the Ancient Egypt galleries.

  18. British Museum Tour

    Among London's amazing museums, the British Museum is unsurpassed. Tour the museum with a trained local expert, and discover all of its ancient treasures. Context Travel's British Museum Tour can be organized as a private or small group tour of six people maximum.

  19. British Museum, London

    British Museum & National Gallery of London Guided Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max. 88. Make the most of your time in London with tours of two of its flagship museums: the National Gallery and British Museum. Explore the National Gallery, home to one of the world's greatest paintings collections, seeing masterpieces such as Van Gogh's ...

  20. Guided Tour of the British Museum (Free Tours by Foot)

    Our 2.5-hour free British Museum tour visits all 6 of the inhabited continents and takes in 7 of the 'Unofficial' Top 10 objects in the British Museum. You'll walk away from this tour fascinated and intrigued, with a greater understanding of the world's most famous museums, and museums in general. What's Included on British Museum Tour:

  21. Bible Tours in the British Museum and others

    In-Person Tours. Our in-person tours bring together our years of experience in the British Museum, central London and other nearby museums. With some of the largest collections in the world, the museums can be overwhelming and confusing, but our upbuilding themed tours help to bring them to life and shine a spotlight on the most relevant artefacts.

  22. Audio-described tour of Michelangelo: the last decades

    Assistance dogs are very welcome in the Museum. Please meet at the Information Desk in the Great Court. If you have any access requirements or need assistance booking this event, please email [email protected] or phone +44 (0)20 7323 8971.

  23. Magnify Bible Tours

    Magnify Bible Tours offer faith-strengthening tours for Jehovah's Witnesses and their friends.-. Physical Tours: In total, we conduct 9 different tours at the British Museum (lasting about an hour each), a Bible tour at the Natural History Museum, London, as well as the Old Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the British Library and now the Wiener Holocaust Library.

  24. British Museum Bible Tours

    Bible Tour of the British Museum. Led by a Cambridge University PhD Student of Assyriology, a one hour tour focusing on the context of the Old Testament, from the Flood to Daniel and beyond. Get in touch to arrange a tour - for you or a group (maximum group size is 8)

  25. Virtual Museum: 13 ways to explore from home

    6. Go on a virtual tour of the Museum. Google Arts & Culture gives you access to 300,000 specimens within the Museum's collections, along with 35 digital exhibitions, virtual tours and an interactive gigapixel photo (so enormous you can zoom in on the tiniest detail) of Hintze Hall's gilded canopy.

  26. Embark On These 10 Best London Walking Tours For An Insightful ...

    British Museum Guided Tour . British Museum is the largest and one of the most iconic museums in the UK. British Museum Guided Tour lets visitors explore an incredible collection of impressive ...