When exploring history, art, and culture, the UK is home to numerous world-class museums and galleries. These millions attract millions of visitors annually.
From ancient antiques to modern masterpieces, these museums in the UK offer a captivating journey through time and a peek into the rich legacy of the UK.
How Many Museums Are There in the UK
There are estimated to be about 2,500 museums in the UK, depending on what you include. Almost 1,800 museums have been accredited.
Most Visited Museums in the UK
| Name of Museums | Location | Number of Visitors (millions) | Galleries |
| The Natural History Museum | Kensington & Chelsea, London | 4.7 | Otumpa iron meteorite, Apollo 16 Moon rock sample, Large skull of a Triceratops |
| British Museum | Great Russell Street, London | 4.1 | Black siltstone obelisks of Nectanebo II (350 BC) & Pair of Lamassu from Nimrud |
| Tate Modern | Bankside, London | 3.9 | Andy Warhol, Marilyn Diptych; Jackson Pollock, Yellow Islands; Marcel Duchamp, Fountain, etc. |
| National Gallery | Trafalgar Square, London, | 2.7 | Leonardo Da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Botticelli. |
| Victoria and Albert Museum | Kensington and Chelsea, London | 2.4 | Chinese lacquerware table, Jacket & portrait of Margaret, Honoré Pelle’s bust of Charles II |
| Science Museum, London | Kensington & Chelsea, London | 2.3 | The Apollo 10 Command Module Charlie Brown. A large bronze sculpture of Rick Genest. A replica of the DNA model built by Crick and Watson and others. |
| The National Museum of Scotland | Edinburgh, Scotland | 2.0 | Hunterston Brooch, the Monymusk Reliquary, Brooch from the Galloway Hoard |
The Natural History Museum
Located in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is one of the most visited museums in the UK. It consists of iconic architecture and an extensive collection of specimens, including dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and gemstones. Thus, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the natural world. From the renowned Diplodocus skeleton in the entrance hall to the interactive exhibits on evolution and biodiversity, the Natural History Museum provides an exceptional learning experience for visitors of all ages.
The British Museum
The British Museum in London is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums. With a collection spanning over a million years of history, it is a treasure trove of artefacts worldwide. From the iconic Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles to the Egyptian mummies and the ancient Greek sculptures, the British Museum offers a fascinating journey through human civilization.
Tate Modern
Moving on to contemporary art, Tate Modern is a top museum in the UK. Spanning more than 100 years of art, the museum’s collection includes many artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures, drawings, prints, installations and more. Among their collection are historical names we all know, like Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, etc.
The National Gallery
The National Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive collection of over 2,300 paintings, including works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. Therefore, the National Gallery showcases the development of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum, also known as the V&A, is the world’s largest museum of art and design. With a collection of over 5,000 years, it showcases a wide range of artefacts, including ceramics, fashion, furniture, textiles, and jewelry.
Science Museum, London
Located in the heart of London, the Science Museum is a fascinating destination for visitors. With its diverse exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive experiences, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of science.
The National Museum of Scotland
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland is a treasure trove of Scottish history and culture. With its diverse collection of artefacts, including the famous Lewis Chessmen, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the country’s past. From ancient archaeological finds to contemporary art and design, the National Museum of Scotland comprehensively explores Scotland’s heritage.
Others: Royal Museums Greenwich, Scottish National Gallery