Photo: Ham / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
Planning your visit
Free admission
FreeNo ticket needed for the permanent collection.
Admission to the collection is always free.
Timed entry recommended — slots sell out at peak times.
Special exhibitions require a separate ticket.
Major ticketed exhibitions are sold by the museum only. The Bayeux Tapestry show is sold out through December 2026.
Where to stay
Last verified August 18, 2026
On view now
Until 11 Jul 2027
The Bayeux Tapestry
A historic loan from France
British Museum · London
September 10, 2026 – July 11, 2027
Before you go
Visiting British Museum — common questions
What exhibitions are on at British Museum right now?
3 special exhibitions are on at British Museum right now: John Constable: Views of Nature (until October 4, 2026), Declaring Independence: USA 250 (until November 29, 2026) and The Bayeux Tapestry (until July 11, 2027). One further show is already announced, starting with Korea on October 1, 2026.
Is British Museum free?
Yes — admission to British Museum is free. Admission to the collection is always free.
Do I need to book British Museum tickets in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended at British Museum; timed slots sell out at peak times.
Are special exhibitions included in British Museum admission?
Special exhibitions require a separate ticket. Major ticketed exhibitions are sold by the museum only. The Bayeux Tapestry show is sold out through December 2026.
What time does British Museum open?
British Museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00–17:00, Friday 10:00–20:30. Last entry 16.45 (20.15 on Fridays) and the Museum is closed 24-26 December.