Ashmolean Museum - Thinking in the museum
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Ashmolean Museum

4.7
·11k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore millennia of art and archaeology, from ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces, at the world's first university museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Midweek afternoons

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Ashmolean Museum - Thinking in the museum

Ashmolean Museum

Best Time

Midweek afternoons

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore millennia of art and archaeology, from ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces, at the world's first university museum.

4.7
(11k reviews)

"A true treasure of history and art, walking through its halls feels like traveling across centuries and cultures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

This Is What You Get: Radiohead Exhibition

This Is What You Get: Radiohead Exhibition

Special Exhibition Gallery

Immerse yourself in the unique visual and musical partnership of Radiohead and Stanley Donwood.

TikTokInstagram
Ancient Egyptian & Sudanese Collections

Ancient Egyptian & Sudanese Collections

Ground Floor & First Floor

Explore mummies, sarcophagi, and artifacts from ancient civilizations.

TikTokInstagram
European Art & Pre-Raphaelite Paintings

European Art & Pre-Raphaelite Paintings

Upper Floors

Discover stunning paintings, including works by the Pre-Raphaelites.

TikTok
Islamic Art & Textiles

Islamic Art & Textiles

Various Galleries

Marvel at intricate ceramics, metalwork, and one of the world's largest collections of medieval Islamic textiles.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Rewards

The Ashmolean Museum offers free general admission, making it an accessible gem in Oxford. However, special exhibitions like the popular Radiohead one may require paid tickets. Booking ahead is wise for these, especially during peak times, to avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

Pace Yourself for Discovery

With five floors of diverse collections spanning millennia and cultures, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Consider prioritizing sections that pique your interest or dedicating a full afternoon to truly soak in the experience. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Midweek afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Saturdays before Easter
Why
Still enjoyable despite earlier close
Crowd
Medium
When
During special exhibitions
Why
Unique, but book ahead
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📣 NOW OPEN This Is What You Get: Stanley Donwood, Radiohead, @thom yorke at the @Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. Book your tickets via the link in profile. Ashmolean Members enjoy unlimited FREE entry. #radiohead #thomyorke #stanleydonwood #thisiswhatyouget
@radiohead
97.7K likes • 754.4K views

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance. TikTokInstagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration. TikTok

One month to go: This Is What You Get: Stanley Donwood, Radiohead, @thom yorke opens next month on 6th August at the @Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. The exhibition will run through to 11th January 2026, showcasing Stanley and Thom's unique partnership, focused around the relationship between visual art and music. More than 180 objects will be on display from the artists' 30-year collaboration, includin...
@radiohead
26.1K likes • 240.5K views
10 FREE THINGS TO DO IN OXFORD 🎓❤️ 🎓 Ashmolean Museum - start at Oxford's most famous museum, the amazing @ashmoleanmuseum ! Chock full of art and archaeological treasures from the Romans to the Ancient Egyptians, it reminds us of London's British Museum. 🎓 Natural History Museum - Fossils galore beneath a dramatic glass roof. Check out the 126 supporting pillars, all from different rocks from a...
teamthomastravels
35 likes • 6.2K views

🗺️ Grab a Floor Plan

Free floor plans are available with a small donation, or check online. Essential for navigating the vast museum. Reddit

☕ Relax in the Cafe

Take a break at the basement cafe or the fourth-floor restaurant to recharge. Reddit

Have you heard of the Ashmolean Museum, the oldest public museum in the U.K.? I had never heard of it until about one month ago when I posted a reel about a Chicago museum and someone so graciously recommended it in a comment! I love this community! The Ashmolean Museum has a treasure trove of Biblical artifacts and is located in Oxford, England. I was staying in London for a ministry trip and w...
shelovesbible
9.6K likes • 194.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance. TikTokInstagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration. TikTok

🗺️ Grab a Floor Plan

Free floor plans are available with a small donation, or check online. Essential for navigating the vast museum. Reddit

☕ Relax in the Cafe

Take a break at the basement cafe or the fourth-floor restaurant to recharge. Reddit

🤫 Embrace Slow Art

Participate in 'Slow Art Day' by spending quiet time with artworks to connect deeper. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Ashmolean Museum for its extensive and diverse collections, spanning ancient civilizations to modern art, all within a beautifully curated space. The free entry is a significant draw, making it an accessible cultural experience. While some find the sheer volume overwhelming, most appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own pace and discover something new. InstagramReddit

"Entry to the museum is free. The museum is multi-story (5 floors). It contains artifacts from ancient and modern times and from all past and present civilizations. The museum is enjoyable to spend time in and gain knowledge about past civilizations and take science, knowledge and lessons from them. If you get tired, you can take a break in the museum café located in the basement or the museum restaurant located on the fourth floor. Visiting the museum is enjoyable and culturally rich."

Farouq S. Aldilaijan

"The Ashmolean Museum is a true treasure of history and art. Walking through its halls feels like traveling across centuries and cultures, from ancient statues to delicate paintings and fascinating artifacts. Each room invites you to slow down and look closer, always offering something that sparks curiosity.
It is a place where the past and present meet beautifully, leaving you inspired and enriched. A must-visit in Oxford, whether for a short stop or a whole day of discovery."

Kseniia Feodoridi

"Fabulous museum! The collection is diverse and beautifully presented. There is something for everyone: stairs and sculpture, portraiture, artifacts, and fashion. The staff are very welcoming. This should be your first stop during a visit to Oxford. Try to go midweek in the afternoon for a more quiet experience."

A Smith

What People Like

Free general admission
Diverse collections
Beautifully presented exhibits

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Special exhibition fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ashmolean Museum is centrally located in Oxford, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Oxford train station. Many visitors find it convenient to explore on foot once in the city center. TikTokInstagram

On-site parking is very limited. It's recommended to use public transport or city car parks. The nearest major car parks include Gloucester Green and Westgate. TikTok

Absolutely! Many Oxford walking tours include a stop or pass by the Ashmolean Museum, offering a great way to get an overview before or after your visit. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the museum is generally accessible. Lifts are available to access all floors, and accessible restrooms are provided. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

The most convenient way to travel from London to Oxford is by train from London Paddington or by coach from London Victoria. Both options are frequent and relatively quick. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Ashmolean Museum is free! However, special exhibitions, such as the popular Radiohead exhibition, often require a paid ticket. It's advisable to book these in advance online. TikTokInstagramReddit

The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, with hours usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. Some days, like Saturdays before Easter, may have slightly earlier closing times. Always check the official website for the most current hours. Reddit

Yes, for popular special exhibitions like the Radiohead show, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

While general admission is free, students might receive discounted rates for special exhibitions. Group bookings may also be available for specific tours or events. Check the museum's ticketing page for details. Reddit

For general entry, no ticket is required as it's free. However, for any ticketed special exhibitions, you will need to purchase a ticket to gain entry. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

To fully appreciate the collections, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore in-depth or visit a special exhibition, a half-day or even a full day is recommended. TikTokReddit

Highlights include the Ancient Egyptian and Sudanese collections, the Pre-Raphaelite paintings, Islamic art, and the current 'This Is What You Get' exhibition featuring Radiohead's art. TikTokInstagram+1

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collections, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions, so always check signage. TikTok

Yes, the museum often offers guided tours for its permanent collections and special exhibitions. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or their website for availability and times. Instagram

The museum often has family-friendly trails, activity packs, and interactive displays. The diverse collections can engage children of various ages. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Ashmolean has a cafe located in the basement and a restaurant on the fourth floor, offering a place to rest and refuel during your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically offers lighter fare like sandwiches, pastries, and coffee, while the restaurant may provide a more substantial menu. Specific offerings can vary. Reddit

Oxford city center is brimming with cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll find a wide range of options just a short walk from the museum, catering to various tastes and budgets. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to consume them in designated areas or outside the museum. Reddit

The restaurant on the fourth floor offers lovely views and a more refined dining experience, which could be suitable for a special occasion, especially after exploring the museum. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the permanent collections, but always check for specific signage. Flash photography and tripods are usually not allowed. TikTok

Yes, special exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely. Always look for and adhere to the signs in each exhibition area. Instagram

The grand staircase, the Egyptian galleries with their sarcophagi, and the art collections offer visually striking opportunities. The architecture of the building itself is also photogenic. TikTok

Photography rules for special exhibitions can vary. For the 'This Is What You Get' exhibition, it's best to check the specific guidelines provided by the museum, as they may have restrictions. Instagram

Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal photography in areas where it's permitted. Just be mindful of others and avoid disruptive use. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ashmolean Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Its free entry makes it an easy choice for a day out. The Ancient Egyptian galleries with mummies and sarcophagi are usually a big hit with children, sparking their imagination about the past. TikTokInstagram

Look out for family trails and activity packs that the museum often provides, designed to make the exhibits more engaging for younger visitors. The sheer variety of objects, from Roman coins to intricate textiles, means there's something to capture the attention of most children. Encourage them to find their favorite artifact or create stories about the items they see. TikTok

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Ashmolean is a treasure trove. The European Art collection is extensive, featuring works by renowned artists. A particular highlight is the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood collection, known for its detailed and vibrant depictions. TikTok

Beyond traditional painting, explore the Islamic Art galleries for exquisite ceramics, metalwork, and textiles that showcase incredible craftsmanship. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, such as the highly acclaimed Radiohead 'This Is What You Get' exhibition, which appeals to those interested in contemporary art and its intersection with music. TikTokInstagram

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Ashmolean incredibly rewarding. Its Ancient Egyptian and Sudanese collections offer a deep dive into millennia-old civilizations, complete with sarcophagi and hieroglyphic inscriptions. TikTokInstagram

The Greek and Roman antiquities provide insights into classical life, while the Islamic art and medieval textiles offer a window into different cultural histories. The museum's own history as the world's first university museum adds another layer of historical interest to your visit. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ashmolean's Rich History

Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is the world's first university museum and the oldest public museum in the UK. It was established to house the collections of Elias Ashmole, a collector and antiquary. Initially, it focused on natural history and curiosities, but over centuries, its collections have expanded dramatically to encompass art and archaeology from across the globe. Instagram

The museum's architecture has also evolved, with significant expansions and renovations throughout its history. The current building, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and opened in 1909, is a landmark in itself. This blend of historical significance and continuous development makes the Ashmolean a dynamic institution. Instagram

Today, the Ashmolean is renowned for its diverse and world-class collections, ranging from Egyptian mummies and Roman sculptures to Renaissance paintings and contemporary art. It continues to be a vital center for research and education, offering visitors a unique journey through human history and creativity. Instagram+1

Exploring the Radiohead Connection

The Ashmolean has recently gained significant attention for its major exhibition, 'This Is What You Get,' showcasing the artistic collaboration between the band Radiohead, frontman Thom Yorke, and artist Stanley Donwood. This exhibition delves into the visual world that has accompanied Radiohead's music, featuring over 180 objects. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors can expect to see original artwork, album cover designs, stage sets, and personal items that illustrate the deep creative partnership. The exhibition highlights how art and music have intertwined to define Radiohead's iconic aesthetic. TikTokInstagram

This special exhibition has drawn considerable interest, with many visitors specifically coming to Oxford to experience it. It's a testament to the museum's ability to host contemporary and culturally relevant exhibitions alongside its historical collections. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for this popular show. TikTokInstagram+1

Navigating the Collections: A Visitor's Guide

The Ashmolean Museum is spread across five floors, each housing distinct collections. The ground floor often features Ancient Egyptian and Sudanese artifacts, including impressive sarcophagi and mummies. As you ascend, you'll encounter Greek and Roman antiquities, followed by European art, including Old Masters and the celebrated Pre-Raphaelite collection. TikTok+1

Don't miss the Islamic Art galleries, which boast stunning ceramics, metalwork, and textiles, including one of the largest collections of medieval Islamic block-printed textiles worldwide. The museum also has significant holdings of Asian art, with particular strengths in Japanese and Chinese collections. Instagram

To make the most of your visit, grab a floor plan or use the museum's online resources. Consider focusing on a few key areas that interest you most, or dedicate a full day to explore the breadth of treasures on display. The museum's layout is designed to guide you through different eras and cultures, offering a comprehensive overview of human achievement. Reddit

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