Design Museum London
Explore cutting-edge and iconic design in a stunning architectural setting. Free general admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Design Museum London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore cutting-edge and iconic design in a stunning architectural setting. Free general admission!
"A must-visit for design lovers, offering free entry to inspiring collections and a beautiful building."
🎯 Free General Admission!
Entry to the main museum is free, making it a great budget-friendly option for London explorers.
🎟️ Book Paid Exhibitions Early
Popular temporary exhibitions sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
More Than Human Exhibition
Special Exhibition Galleries
Explore groundbreaking works that challenge our relationship with the natural world and technology.
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Wes Anderson: The Archives
Special Exhibition Galleries
Step into the whimsical world of Wes Anderson with props, costumes, and scripts from his iconic films.
Design Museum Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the striking transformation of a former Commonwealth Institute building into a modern design hub.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions
Free General Admission, Paid Exhibitions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free General Admission!
Entry to the main museum is free, making it a great budget-friendly option for London explorers. +1
🎟️ Book Paid Exhibitions Early
Popular temporary exhibitions sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
🚶♀️ Explore Holland Park Nearby
The museum is located in Holland Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a post-visit stroll.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't forget to admire the building's unique design, both inside and out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free General Admission!
Entry to the main museum is free, making it a great budget-friendly option for London explorers. +1
🎟️ Book Paid Exhibitions Early
Popular temporary exhibitions sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
🚶♀️ Explore Holland Park Nearby
The museum is located in Holland Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a post-visit stroll.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't forget to admire the building's unique design, both inside and out.
💡 Check for Free Talks
The museum often hosts free talks and events related to its exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Design Museum for its free general admission and its stunning architectural space. The temporary exhibitions are a major draw, often receiving high marks for their curation and relevance, though they do come with a fee. Some find the museum can get crowded, especially during peak times or for popular shows.
"Went here for The World of Tim Burton Exhibition. It was absolutely fantastic! To be up close to the clothing/props from some of the films and all the original artworks, it was breathtaking! It was all really well laid out and I loved every moment of it! What an amazing place to visit and see. 💀🖤"
Cîara Frain
"A must see free museum for any design student or professional. Beatufully designed customer experience sets the bar high for all museums in London. Great blend of storytelling and showcasing iconic and historical design pieces.
The design cafeteria on top floor is a tranquil place to digest what you have seen and enjoy quality food. ♥️"
Vladimirs Ivanovs
"A very open and spacious place with clean toilets and a nice café, making it easy to spend a few hours here. The museum isn’t just about modern design — you’ll also find fascinating vintage items like old computers, phones, and even clothing. There’s a good mix of creative exhibits and nostalgic pieces.
It’s worth visiting not only to see the design work but also for the experience of walking through such an inspiring and well-curated space."
Zivile J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Design Museum is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Tube stations are High Street Kensington (Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines) and Holland Park (Central line). Several bus routes also stop nearby.
On-street parking is limited and can be expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport to reach the museum.
Yes, there are cycle racks available at the museum. It's a great way to explore the city and arrive sustainably.
The Design Museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with lifts and accessible restrooms available throughout the building.
High Street Kensington station is generally considered the most convenient, offering direct access to the museum via a short walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, general admission to the Design Museum is free, allowing you to explore its permanent collections and the building itself. +1
Ticket prices for special exhibitions vary. It's best to check the Design Museum's official website for current pricing and to book in advance, as popular exhibitions can sell out.
No, you do not need to book tickets for free general admission. However, for special exhibitions, advance booking is highly recommended.
The Design Museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry usually an hour before closing. Always check their website for the most up-to-date hours.
While some tickets might be available on the door for special exhibitions, it's strongly advised to book online in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the 'More Than Human' exhibition exploring our relationship with technology and nature,
Yes, the Design Museum offers engaging exhibits that can appeal to children, especially those with an interest in creativity and innovation. Look out for interactive elements and family-friendly displays.
For general admission, 1-2 hours is usually sufficient. If you plan to see a special exhibition, allow an additional 1-2 hours.
The museum sometimes offers guided tours for special exhibitions. Check their website for schedules and booking information.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in the permanent collection areas, but it's often restricted in special exhibitions. Always look for signage indicating photo policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Design Museum has a cafe and restaurant offering a range of food and drinks. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
The museum is located in the Kensington area, which has numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs offering diverse culinary options.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. You can usually consume them in designated areas or outside the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's striking architecture, both inside and out, offers fantastic photo opportunities. Look for interesting angles in the main atrium and the exterior facade.
Photography policies can vary between exhibitions. While general areas may permit it, special exhibitions often have restrictions. Always check for signage.
Tripods and professional photography equipment are usually not allowed without prior permission to avoid obstructing other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for exhibits that feature interactive elements or relatable themes, such as toys, games, or everyday objects reimagined. The museum's location in Holland Park also provides a great opportunity for outdoor play after your visit.
🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts
+2Consider exploring the museum's architecture and its history as a design object in itself. The surrounding Holland Park area also offers a pleasant environment for contemplation and inspiration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Plan your visit around the free permanent collections and enjoy the stunning architecture. If a special exhibition catches your eye, consider it a worthwhile splurge, but know that you can still have a rich experience without paying for temporary shows. Utilize nearby cafes or pack a picnic to save on food costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design Museum's Architectural Marvel
Visitors often praise the building's aesthetic, noting how the modern interior complements the historic structure. It’s a space that encourages exploration and appreciation for architectural design, making the visit a multi-sensory experience. The museum's location in Holland Park also adds to its charm, providing a serene backdrop.
Inside, the museum is designed for flow and accessibility, ensuring that visitors can easily navigate between exhibitions and amenities. The thoughtful layout enhances the visitor experience, allowing for focused engagement with the exhibits while still offering moments of architectural appreciation.
Exploring Temporary Exhibitions
+1 and the highly anticipated 'Wes Anderson: The Archives,' offering a rare glimpse into the filmmaker's creative process. These exhibitions are often the main draw for many visitors and are frequently the subject of social media buzz. Creators share their awe and excitement, highlighting specific pieces or immersive elements that make these shows unique. It's crucial to check the museum's schedule in advance, as these exhibitions are time-limited and often require pre-booked tickets.
Community discussions on platforms like Reddit often revolve around the quality and curation of these temporary shows. Travelers share tips on the best times to visit to avoid crowds and express their anticipation for upcoming displays, underscoring the museum's reputation for hosting world-class design showcases.
Free Admission: A London Gem
This free entry policy is frequently highlighted by visitors and content creators, who emphasize it as a significant perk of visiting London. It allows people to experience world-class design without the financial barrier often associated with major cultural institutions.
While general admission is free, it's important to remember that special temporary exhibitions typically have an associated cost. However, the ability to wander through the museum's core offerings and admire its architecture at no charge makes the Design Museum a standout attraction in the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit