The British Museum is one of the most comprehensive museums on the planet, housing a permanent collection of over eight million works that trace the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present. Founded in 1753, it was the first public national museum in the world.
From the ancient Egyptian galleries to the Parthenon sculptures, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through civilizations. Admission is free, making it the most visited attraction in the United Kingdom year after year.
Virtual Tour Links
🏛️ British Museum on Google Arts & Culture
Browse thousands of high-resolution images, curated online exhibits, and 360° gallery views from the museum's vast collection.
Explore the Collection →📍 Google Street View Inside the Museum
Walk through the iconic Great Court and navigate the galleries in immersive 360° Street View.
Step Inside →Key Areas to Explore
- Rosetta Stone — The key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics, dating to 196 BC and one of the most visited objects in the world.
- Egyptian Mummies — One of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities outside Cairo, spanning 3,000 years.
- Parthenon Sculptures — Marble carvings from the Parthenon in Athens, created under Phidias around 447–432 BC.
- Enlightenment Gallery — The museum's original library space, showcasing how collectors and scholars made sense of the world.
- King's Library (Enlightenment Gallery) — Originally built for George III's library, the books were transferred to the British Library in 1998. The stunning room now serves as the Enlightenment Gallery, exploring the Age of Enlightenment through objects and discovery.
Quick Facts
- Founded 1753 — The first public national museum in the world
- 8 million+ objects — Only 1% on display at any time
- Free admission — Open to all since its founding
- Most visited UK attraction — Over 5.8 million visitors per year
💡 Pro Tip
Start your virtual visit with the Google Arts & Culture "Museum of the World" interactive timeline — it lets you explore objects by era and region with stunning animations.
Enhance Your Virtual Visit
Recommended Gear for Virtual Travel
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Meta Quest 3S VR Headset
Wander the Great Court and galleries in fully immersive virtual reality.
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"A History of the World in 100 Objects" by Neil MacGregor
The former director tells human history through 100 objects from the museum's collection.