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The British Museum: which ticket to pick

While general admission to the British Museum is free, these options provide reserved entry to skip the walk-up queues, expert guided insights, or bundled city-wide access.

Prices verified: 20 June 2026Mid season

Our recommendation

Your choice depends on how much context you want for the museum's vast collection. Guided tours are best for navigating the highlights efficiently, while audio guides suit independent travelers.

  • Independent explorersProvides a reserved entry slot and an audio guide to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed.
  • First-time visitorsA guided group tour ensures you don't miss the key highlights like the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon Sculptures.
  • Families or history buffsA private guide can tailor the pace and focus to your specific interests, making it ideal for groups.
  • City-wide sightseersBundles museum access with dozens of other London attractions for maximum sightseeing value.

Official price and partners

General admission is free, though booking a timed-entry slot in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues. Partner tours provide guaranteed entry and expert guides, adding value through guided context.

Entrance tip

Use the Montague Place entrance at the back of the museum to avoid the typically longer security queues at the main Great Russell Street gate.

Compare options

Headout
from £28Best price
  • Reserved Entry
  • Live Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Audio Guide
  • Multi-Attraction Access
Book via Headout

Viator
from £150Reserve now, pay later
  • Reserved Entry
  • Live Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Audio Guide
  • Multi-Attraction Access
Book via Viator

GetYourGuide
Free cancellation
  • Reserved Entry
  • Live Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Audio Guide
  • Multi-Attraction Access
Book via GetYourGuide

Choose by your situation

Short visit / highlights only
British Museum Highlights Guided Group Tour
Full experience / deep dive
Private British Museum History and Culture Tour
Visiting with kids
Private British Museum History and Culture Tour
Budget-conscious
British Museum Audio Guide and Reserved Entry
Multi-day London itinerary
The London Pass

What is often not included

  • General admission to the British Museum is free; you are paying for the guided expertise, audio equipment, or the convenience of a reserved time slot.
  • Special temporary exhibitions are typically not included in standard tours or audio guide packages and require a separate ticket.
  • Even with a city pass, you may still need to reserve a free timed entry slot on the museum's official website to guarantee entry during peak times.
  • Group tours usually focus only on the main highlights; expect to spend additional time on your own if you want to see the lesser-known galleries.

Discounts and free entry

While walk-ups are permitted, booking a free timed-entry ticket in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry. Reduced pricing for special exhibitions is typically available for students, disabled visitors, and youth under 16.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can I bring luggage or large bags into the British Museum?

    No. Wheeled suitcases and any bags larger than 40x40x50cm or heavier than 8kg are strictly prohibited and cannot be brought in or checked into the cloakroom. You must use an external luggage storage service before arriving.

← Read the full The British Museum guide

Our pickfrom £14