The British Museum, one of the greatest museums in the world, tops the visitor charts. Founded in 1753, it is also the oldest museum in the world and its contents catalogue over two million years of world history and culture. With over 94 galleries and thousands of artefacts, the British Museum will have something for everyone! The most famous exhibits include the Elgin Marbles – sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens, Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone. The Reading Room was recently incorporated into the Great Court (a huge covered courtyard) has witnessed the likes of Karl Marx, Mahatma Ghandi and George Bernard Shaw working there. Admission is free and there are lots of events and special exhibitions taking place throughout the year.
The British Museum opens daily 10:00-17:30 Sat-Wed, 10:00-20:30 Thurs-Fri (selected galleries). The Great Court opens 09:00-18:00 Mon-Wed, 09:00-23:00 Thurs, Fri and 09:00-18:00 Sat and Sun, closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan. Tube: Tottenham Court Road, Holborn or Russell Square. Enquiries: 020 7323 8299