The British Museum

The British Museum offers families an incredible journey through human history, from Egyptian mummies that captivate young imaginations to ancient Greek sculptures and treasures from every corner of the globe. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it an unbeatable value for families traveling to London who want world-class culture without the hefty price tag.

• ✓The Egyptian mummies in rooms 62-63, including incredibly preserved bodies and decorated coffins that fascinate kids
• ✓The Rosetta Stone in room 4, the famous ancient tablet that unlocked Egyptian hieroglyphics
• ✓The enormous Easter Island head (Hoa Hakananai'a) that towers over visitors
• ✓Ancient Greek sculptures including pieces from the Parthenon in the special galleries
• ✓The hands-on Samsung Digital Discovery Centre where kids can explore collections through interactive technology

1. 1.Download the free museum app before your visit, which includes family trails designed to turn the galleries into treasure hunts that keep kids engaged.
2. 2.Pick up a free family backpack at the information desk, filled with activities, games, and hands-on materials related to specific galleries.
3. 3.Start with the Egyptian galleries (rooms 62-63) early in the day when they're less crowded, as the mummies are the biggest draw for kids and can get packed by midday.
4. 4.The museum is enormous, so don't try to see everything. Focus on 2-3 galleries that interest your kids most to avoid museum fatigue.
5. 5.Visit on Friday evenings when the museum stays open until 8:30 PM for a quieter, more relaxed experience with fewer school groups.

Visit on weekday mornings right when doors open at 10:00 AM to avoid crowds, or try Friday evenings for extended hours with fewer visitors. Avoid weekends and UK school holidays (especially October half-term and Easter) when the museum is busiest with local families and tour groups.

Admission is free, though special exhibitions may require tickets. The museum has excellent facilities including baby changing rooms, a cafe, and is fully accessible with lifts throughout. Food can be pricey inside, so many families pack snacks or plan to eat at nearby cafes in Bloomsbury.

Open year-round with free admission. The museum hosts special family activities during school holidays including craft workshops and storytelling sessions. Book these popular events in advance through the museum website. Be prepared for larger crowds during UK school breaks and summer months (July-August).

The Court Cafe inside the museum offers kid-friendly options like sandwiches and pasta in the stunning Great Court. For a quick bite outside, head to Coppa Club on New Oxford Street (5-minute walk) which has a dedicated children's menu and high chairs, or try the casual Italian chain Strada nearby for familiar favorites like pizza and pasta.