British Museum Tickets & Tours 2025

General admission is free (donations welcome). At busy times the museum may use timed entry or recommend advance booking to manage crowds. Guided tours, special exhibitions, and audio guides are paid.

The collection is vast. A guide curates a route, adds context you’ll miss on labels, and helps you see more in less time. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone who wants a focused experience around Egypt, Greece, Assyria, or “greatest hits.”

Timed entry may apply in peak seasons. Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Standard bag checks operate; large luggage is not permitted. Guided tours usually meet at a specific point—follow your voucher instructions carefully.

Don’t miss the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies, Assyrian reliefs, Sutton Hoo treasures, and the glass-roofed Great Court. A guide helps you connect these objects into a clear story.

For a first visit, allow 2–3 hours. Express “highlights” tours run about 60–90 minutes; in-depth themed tours take longer. Pace yourself—there’s a lot to see!

Yes—mobile tickets are widely accepted. Keep your QR code ready and your screen brightness high. Check your voucher for the meeting point and any ID requirement.

Try weekday mornings or late afternoons (Tue–Thu often feel calmer). Weekends, school holidays and rainy days are busier. If evening openings are scheduled, they can be quieter—confirm the current schedule before you go.

The museum offers step-free routes, lifts and accessible facilities. Strollers are generally fine, though galleries can be busy. For specific assistance or equipment, check your tour page and the museum’s access information before your date.

Non-flash photography is usually allowed in permanent galleries. Special exhibitions may have restrictions. Tripods and lighting gear are not permitted. Always follow on-site signage and staff guidance.

Large luggage is not allowed. Facilities and cloakroom capacity can change; travel light for faster security. A small daypack, water, and essentials are best. Check the latest bag policy on your booking page.

Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square, and Goodge Street are all within walking distance. Bloomsbury is great for pairing your visit with Covent Garden or the West End.

Yes, special exhibitions are ticketed separately and can sell out on weekends or holidays. Book in advance and note the exact date/time on your ticket; late arrivals may be moved to a later slot.

Many guided visits use whisper headsets in busy areas, and the museum offers audio guides (paid). Look for family-friendly or private options tailored to kids with interactive stops and shorter loops.

Many products offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your slot, but policies vary. Always confirm the exact window and terms on your chosen product page before you buy.

Combine with the National Gallery, Covent Garden, or a West End stroll. If your focus is ancient civilizations, consider a themed route that links Egypt, Greece and Assyria in one guided visit.