Free & Reduced British Museum Tickets

Everything you need to know about free admission and exhibition tickets

Free Admission to the British Museum

The British Museum's permanent collection is completely free to visit. No tickets, no booking, no reservations — simply walk through the entrance during opening hours and explore at your leisure. This applies to all visitors regardless of age, nationality, or residency.

The museum has been free since it first opened to the public in 1759, fulfilling the founding vision that its collections should be available to all "studious and curious persons." Today, this means you have free access to approximately 80,000 objects on display across 94 galleries, spanning 2 million years of human history.

Donations: While entry is free, the museum relies partly on voluntary donations. A suggested donation of £5 is encouraged. Donation boxes are located throughout the museum, and you can also donate online or by text.

Special temporary exhibitions: The British Museum hosts major temporary exhibitions throughout the year, which typically require purchased timed-entry tickets. Prices usually range from £16 to £22 for adults. Concessions and family tickets are available. These exhibitions often sell out in advance, so early booking through the official website is recommended.

Audio Guide, Membership & Other Costs

While the permanent collection is free, there are some optional paid services and enhancements:

    • Audio guide: £7 — A multimedia guide with expert commentary on hundreds of key objects, available in multiple languages
    • Exhibition tickets: £16-£22 — Timed-entry tickets for special temporary exhibitions, available online from britishmuseum.org
    • British Museum Members: From £75/year — Unlimited free entry to all exhibitions, exclusive events, access to the Members' Room, guest passes, and 10% shop discount
    • Young Friends (16-25): Reduced membership rate with all core benefits

Free guided tours: Daily highlight tours led by museum volunteers are completely free. No booking required — just turn up at the Great Court.

Free family activities: Activity backpacks, trails, and many family events are free of charge.

How to support the museum: Beyond the suggested £5 donation, you can support the British Museum by becoming a Member, adopting an object, leaving a legacy, or shopping in the museum stores.

Free & Reduced Tickets FAQ

Common questions about British Museum admission and pricing

Is the British Museum really free?
Yes, the permanent collection is completely free to visit. The British Museum has been free since it opened in 1759. No tickets, no booking required — just walk in. Only special temporary exhibitions require purchased tickets (typically £16-£22). Everything else — the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, Parthenon Marbles, and all 94 galleries — is free.
How much do exhibition tickets cost?
Special temporary exhibitions typically cost between £16 and £22 for adult tickets. Concession rates are usually available for students, over 60s, and people with disabilities. Family tickets and group rates are also offered. British Museum Members get free unlimited entry to all exhibitions. Check britishmuseum.org for current exhibition prices and booking.
Is membership worth it?
If you plan to visit multiple exhibitions per year or live in London and visit regularly, British Museum membership (from £75/year) is excellent value. Members get free unlimited entry to all exhibitions, exclusive events and previews, access to the Members' Room, guest passes, and 10% off in the museum shops. If you would attend 4+ exhibitions per year, the membership pays for itself.
Do I need to donate to enter?
No, donations are entirely voluntary. The suggested donation is £5, but you are under no obligation to donate. Entry to the permanent collection is free regardless of whether you choose to donate. That said, donations help the museum maintain its free admission policy, conserve its collections, and run educational programmes.

Visit the British Museum for Free

Free admission to 8 million objects spanning 2 million years. Plan your visit and check current exhibition tickets today.

Plan Your Visit