Top Things To Do In The British Museum (London) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in The British Museum

1. 1. The Rosetta Stone: Keys to an Ancient Past

   No visit to The British Museum is complete without seeing the Rosetta Stone, an artifact that was instrumental in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs. In this activity, you can join an insightful lecture or guided tour that delves deep into the stone's history and its significance. Learn about the Ptolemaic Period during which it was carved, the intriguing story of its discovery by French soldiers in 1799, and the critical role it played in understanding ancient Egyptian civilization. The session would also explore how the stone ended up in British hands and the various scripts inscribed on it, which allowed scholars like Jean-François Champollion to finally unlock the language of the pharaohs.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission

2. 2. Ancient Greece and the Parthenon

   This immersive tour offers a detailed exploration of Ancient Greece, with a particular focus on the Parthenon and its marbles. It highlights the temple's architectural brilliance, as well as its significance in the history of art and its role within the Athenian Acropolis. Led by an expert guide, visitors will gain insights into the cultural and historical background of the Parthenon and discuss the controversies surrounding the Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles. Discover the fascinating facts behind their creation, their subsequent journey to Great Britain, and the ongoing debates over cultural heritage and the restitution of artifacts.

   Duration: 90 minutes · Price: Free with admission

3. 3. Treasures of the Ancient World

   Explore some of the most magnificent artifacts spanning across continents and time periods, in this tour that showcases the global collection housed within The British Museum. Visitors will be taken on a memorable journey witnessing treasures such as the Lewis Chessmen from Scotland, the Holy Thorn Reliquary from France, and the remarkable sculptures from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. The guide will share captivating tales of how these treasures were uncovered and the lasting impact they've had on our understanding of history and culture. Each item's story adds a rich narrative layer to the museum's unparalleled collection.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Free with admission

4. 4. Mummies of Ancient Egypt

   This popular guided tour allows participants to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egyptian mummies. The British Museum possesses one of the world's most extensive collections of mummified individuals and related artifacts. During the tour, experts explain the mummification process, beliefs about the afterlife, and decode the symbols and texts found on sarcophagi. Moreover, with the help of non-invasive research methods like CT scanning, visitors will gain insights into the individual lives of these ancient people, their health, diet, and even the diseases they suffered from.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Free with admission

5. 5. Vikings: Raiders and Traders

   Join this in-depth session which takes you back to the Viking Age, an era characterized by exploration, trade, and warfare. The British Museum's collection includes fascinating artifacts from this period, from weapons and armors to the more personal items like jewelry and everyday utensils. Learn more about who the Vikings were, the societies they built, and how their extensive networks of riverine and maritime trade stretched from the British Isles to the far reaches of the known world. The activity offers historical insights that challenge the stereotypes and bring a complex civilization to light.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Free with admission

6. 6. Illuminating India: A Cultural Journey

   Illuminating India is a special activity that provides a deep dive into the South Asian collections of The British Museum, with a particular emphasis on the rich tapestry of Indian history. Visitors will be treated to a showcase of the diverse material culture from ancient to modern times. Exquisite sculptures, intricate paintings, and a variety of historical objects tell the stories of India's many dynasties and empires, as well as its pivotal role in the development of world civilizations. Along with the artifacts, discussions may include the ongoing influence of Indian culture globally and contemporary issues of heritage and identity.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Free with admission

7. 7. The Art of the Islamic World

   This tour explores the rich traditions of Islamic art found within The British Museum's collection. Participants can embark on an enlightening journey through time and space, from the early days of the Islamic civilization to the splendors of the Ottoman, Safavid and Mughal empires. Encounter stunning calligraphy, intricate metalwork, luxurious textiles, and beautifully decorated ceramics that highlight the artistry and technical skill of artisans from across the Islamic world. Through these pieces, visitors will learn about the dissemination of artistic styles and the cultural exchanges that influenced the development of Islamic art.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Free with admission

8. 8. Discover the Sutton Hoo Ship Burial

   Sutton Hoo is one of Britain's most important archaeological finds of the 20th century, and The British Museum allows you to explore its mystery and grandeur. This activity focuses on the remarkable discovery of an Anglo-Saxon burial ship and the wealth of treasures it contained. These grave goods have dramatically shaped our understanding of the so-called Dark Ages, illuminating a world of complexity, craftsmanship, and far-reaching connections. The tour would provide insights into the excavation process, the social and political context of the period, as well as the conservation efforts that have preserved the artifacts for future generations.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission

9. 9. Living and Dying: Rituals Across Cultures

   This gallery talk takes a closer look at The British Museum's extensive exhibition on the different ways cultures have understood and addressed the concepts of living and dying. With objects ranging from Japanese Noh masks to African healing figures, the talk explores how various societies approach health, life, death, and the afterlife. The participants will engage with exhibits that question the shared experiences of humanity while recognizing the diverse expressions of cultural identity. The activity offers a unique opportunity to consider the universal elements that connect us all, even in the face of profound cultural differences.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission

10. 10. Ancient Mesopotamia: The Cradle of Civilization

    Ancient Mesopotamia, the land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, was called the cradle of civilization for its innovations, which include the creation of writing. By participating in this tour, museum-goers embark on a journey through time to explore significant Mesopotamian artifacts such as the Standard of Ur, the Stele of Hammurabi, and the Assyrian reliefs. The guided walkthrough discusses the ingenuity of civilizations like the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians, their contributions to writing, law, and governance, and how their legacies have impacted contemporary society.

    Duration: 2 hours · Price: Free with admission