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Free national museums in the UK

Many of the UK's biggest museums do not charge for entry to their permanent collections. Here is how it works in each nation and what to watch out for.

Last updated 2 November 2026

Free entry to the permanent galleries of many national museums is long-standing UK practice. GOV.UK records that free entry to the permanent galleries at all DCMS-sponsored national museums began on 1 December 2001, and Wikipedia's list of UK national museums says free entrance is standard practice, though some exhibits charge. Policies can change, so always check the museum's own website.

England

Wikipedia's list of national museums in England includes the following, which are among the best known:

• British Museum
• Natural History Museum
• Science Museum Group (including the National Railway Museum and the Science and Industry Museum)
• Victoria and Albert Museum
• National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and Tate
• Imperial War Museums
• National Maritime Museum (Royal Museums Greenwich)
• National Museums Liverpool, including World Museum and the Walker Art Gallery
• Wallace Collection, Sir John Soane's Museum, Horniman Museum and Gardens, and Museum of the Home
• National Army Museum, Royal Armouries, RAF Museum, National Coal Mining Museum for England

Within these groups, individual sites or buildings may charge. We have not confirmed the policy for every site, so check before you go.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own national museums, run under their own governments. We have not confirmed each one's current entry policy, so look at the official pages of National Museums Scotland, National Galleries of Scotland, Museum Wales (Amgueddfa Cymru) and National Museums NI before you travel.

What can still cost money

• Special exhibitions: temporary shows often charge, sometimes a lot.
• Booking: some museums ask you to book a free slot at busy times.
• Cafes and shops: prices are those of any city attraction. Bring a drink and snacks and check whether there is a picnic area.
• Donations: usually suggested, not compulsory.

Getting the most from a visit

1. Pick one gallery or a few rooms rather than trying to see everything.
2. Ask at the desk for a free map and any family trail.
3. Go early on weekends or during school holidays.
4. Check the website for free talks, tours or family events.
5. Look at the online collection first and make a short list of things you want to see.

For wet days, free museums are the obvious plan B; see free wet weather days out. Combine with travel savings from the rail guide, and take a picnic to the nearest green space afterwards.

Beyond the national ones

Local authority museums, university collections and many small independent museums also have free or low-cost entry. Search your county or city council's website for local museums, and check opening days, because smaller museums may close on some weekdays or in winter.

Planning a day around a free museum

Check opening times and whether you need to book before you travel. Look at the museum's map online and choose two or three galleries. If you are going with children, agree a rule such as one question each to find the answer to. Leave time to sit down, because museum floors are tiring, and bring a small bag that fits the cloakroom or security rules. Aim to leave while everyone is still enjoying it.

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