London is filled with fabulous museums, and Kensington includes some of the very best. For intrepid visitors eager to see as much as possible, without stretching their bank balance too far, this area also offers an array of free museums which are perfect for a leisurely browse all-year-round. Covering everything from fashion to science and nature, this guide will help you reach the very best free museums in Kensington…
The Victoria & Albert Museum
If you’re a fan of design or fashion, then a trip to the Victoria & Albert Museum (sometimes better known as the V&A) is an absolute must. Having gained international acclaim for its vast selection of items dating back hundreds of years and with objects sourced from all over the world, you’ll find a wide range of design-led pieces here, including textiles, prints and ceramics.
The fashion exhibits often prove particularly popular, but the scope of the V&A goes far beyond this. Opening at 10:00 and closing at 17:45 each day, expect later closing times during special events or on Friday evenings. If you want to really immerse yourself in the design world, then look no further.
A trip to the V&A is a great way to explore design history after enjoying an opulent Indian afternoon tea at the Park Grand Restaurant Kensington, and is only a short distance away from your base in the city.
The Natural History Museum
This is one of London’s most respected institutions, and once you visit, you’ll soon discover why. As a major home for finds from the natural world, the Natural History Museum has over eighty million artefacts and specimens including everything from recovered whale bones to dinosaur bones, insects and much more. The museum has developed a great reputation for showmanship, with interactive exhibits which help bring the stories of each piece to life, and thrill visitors of all ages. Whether you’re fascinated by nature or simply keen to try one of the city’s most popular destinations for yourself, this really is the perfect way to accomplish both while you visit the Park Grand Kensington.
The museum opens at 10:00 each day and closes at 17:50, giving you plenty of time to look around.
Science Museum
One of the best free museums in Kensington, this venue has proven to be particularly popular with younger visitors, who adore the interactive exhibitions. However, it’s a great place to go for all ages, with millions flocking to see this noted tourist attraction every year.
There are lots of things to enjoy during your visit, including a wealth of information on scientific principles and projects, spanning the history of this area of study. Expect to find everything from astronomy to electronics – and whilst the museum itself is free, some exhibitions do charge a cover fee. Opening at 10:00 and closing at 18:00 during most of the week, special events lead to longer opening times.
