V&A East Storehouse
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V&A East Storehouse

4.7
·741 reviews·, United Kingdom

London's newest working museum, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at over 250,000 artifacts and conservation in action.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursday evenings

Less crowded, open late

CrowdLow
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V&A East Storehouse

V&A East Storehouse

Best Time

Thursday evenings

Less crowded, open late

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's newest working museum, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at over 250,000 artifacts and conservation in action. TikTok+1

4.7
(741 reviews)

"It's a warehouse where you can explore with information provided at your own pace. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

General entry is free, but special exhibitions like the David Bowie collection may need advance booking.

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across four levels, so comfortable footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Curator and Conservation Areas

Witness conservators and technical specialists at work, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at cultural heritage preservation.

TikTokReddit
Vast Object Collection

Vast Object Collection

Four Levels of Display

Explore over 250,000 objects spanning fashion, furniture, and more, from ancient to modern times.

TikTok+1
Order an Object Service

Order an Object Service

Information Desk/Online

Request to see specific archived items not on display, like David Bowie's costumes, with advance notice.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

A Working Museum Experience

Unlike traditional galleries, V&A East Storehouse offers a unique glimpse into a working museum. Explore over 250,000 objects and see curators at work. Booking might be required for special exhibitions like David Bowie's collection. TikTok+1

Getting There & Entry

Located in Stratford, it's a short walk from the station. Entry is free, but special exhibitions may require tickets. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Thursday evenings
Why
Less crowded, open late
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

London’s newest working museum with over 250,000 artefacts. The V&A East Storehouse is unlike any other museum you’ve been to before, you can even see the pieces up close by “ordering an object”. An exciting new way to experience art 🖼️ Completely free! You can walk around and discover all sorts of artefacts from around the world. . . #freethingstodoninlondon #londonart #londonartgallery #londonf...
@nomlondonfood
36K likes • 337.9K views

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

General entry is free, but special exhibitions like the David Bowie collection may need advance booking. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across four levels, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

Let’s visit London’s newest museum ✨ • V&A East Storehouse @V&A Museum • 15 minute walk from Stratford Station • Free Entry #vandaeaststorehouse #londonmuseums #freethingstodoninlondon #londonguide #whattodoinlondon
@georgeinlondon
1.3K likes • 19.8K views
London’s newest museum is nothing short of spectacular 🖼️ @vam_east is home to over half a million objects of interest, curators at work, hidden corners to explore, and a café by one of the area’s best bakeries. Save this for your next day out in London 🤍 #london #visitlondon #londonlife #londonthingstodo #londonblogger #londonmuseum #sondereditions
@jesslouiseellis
3.9K likes • 88.5K views

📱 Download the V&A App

Enhance your visit with the V&A app for AR features and more organized information about objects. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

With over 250,000 objects, it's easy to get lost. Give yourself at least a few hours to explore. TikTok

ad A new museum experience has just landed in London. V&A East’s brand new V&A East Storehouse opens this week, the first of TWO epic sites landing in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park🙌 This isn’t your average museum. It’s a world-first, right here in East London where you can discover over 500,000 objects and stories, 5,000 years of creativity, ancient and modern treasures, peek behind the scenes of t...
@visitlondon
434 likes • 27.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

General entry is free, but special exhibitions like the David Bowie collection may need advance booking. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across four levels, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

📱 Download the V&A App

Enhance your visit with the V&A app for AR features and more organized information about objects. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

With over 250,000 objects, it's easy to get lost. Give yourself at least a few hours to explore. TikTok

☕ Cafe Break

Enjoy a coffee and pastry at the on-site cafe, run by one of the area's best bakeries. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(741 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the V&A East Storehouse's unique 'working museum' concept, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at conservation and vast collections. While some wish for more frequent object rotation, the innovative approach and impressive scale make it a highly recommended, free cultural experience in London. TikTokReddit

"I think you just love the place, simple as that. Yes it's not your traditional white cubes where arts are selected and curated apart to show you, instead it's a warehouse where you can explore with information provided at your own pace. We visited in Thursday evening which opens till 10pm. Not crowded and almost visit every corner. I wish the objects on display get rotated more often too and that more routes will be opened and connected to the public. The architecture is unpretentious on the outside, just a big warehouse, and the interior has been kept true, though with impressive height and volume to display arts and objects. Lots of items you get to touch and read and look at closely. I also wish the app could have AR enabled to introduce objects in a more organised and informed way."

Notry

"The new V&A Storehouse is amazing. We were lucky enough to get tickets for the David Bowie Exhibition which we enjoyed very much.
The storehouse itself is fabulous and you can request to see any object they have (notice is required)
The building is spacious and the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. It's a brilliant resource and truly worth a visit."

Michael Scott

"Visited on a Sunday morning, it was busy but you could still view everything. It's an incredible, innovative space full of surprises on display. The randomness of the displays are what makes it! It's warm due to climate control measures to protect the pieces on display and you are invited to leave your bags and coats in lockers downstairs. You can keep your phone on you.

I feel so lucky to have something so daringly innovative on my doorstep, its an amazing place to spend a couple of hours.

Best bit us you get to see into the conservators and technical specialists working areas, so often behind the scenes in most museums and galleries, but here you have a birds eye view. Can't wait to go back!"

Sheetal Parmar

What People Like

Unique working museum concept
Behind-the-scenes access
Vast object collection

What People Dislike

Object rotation frequency

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The V&A East Storehouse is easily accessible by public transport. It's a 15-minute walk from Stratford Station, which serves the Central, Jubilee, DLR, Overground, and National Rail lines. TikTok Many visitors find it convenient to use the Tube or Overground to reach Stratford and then enjoy a short walk to the museum. TikTok

While there isn't dedicated visitor parking directly at the Storehouse, Stratford has several car parks nearby, including Westfield Stratford City. However, public transport is generally recommended for ease of access and to avoid parking fees. TikTok

Yes, the V&A East Storehouse is designed to be accessible. It features lifts and spacious layouts across its four levels, ensuring visitors with mobility needs can explore the collections comfortably. TikTok

The museum is spread across four levels, so it's a good idea to grab a map upon arrival or use the V&A app to plan your route. Many visitors suggest starting on the upper levels and working your way down. TikTokReddit

Visitors are advised to leave large bags and coats in the lockers provided downstairs. This helps protect the artifacts and makes it easier to navigate the exhibition spaces. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the V&A East Storehouse is free for all visitors. However, special exhibitions, such as the David Bowie collection, may require a separate ticket and advance booking. TikTokReddit+1

While general entry is free and doesn't require booking, it's highly recommended to check the V&A website for any special exhibitions or events that might require advance ticket purchase. TikTokReddit

Opening hours can vary, but the V&A East Storehouse is typically open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday. It's best to check the official V&A website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially for late openings or specific event days. Reddit

Yes, the David Bowie exhibition is a popular highlight. While some Bowie items are in the general display, access to the dedicated archive may require specific tickets or booking, so check the V&A website for details. Reddit+1

This unique service allows visitors to request access to specific archived items not currently on display. You can view items like David Bowie's costumes or historical documents with at least two weeks' notice. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect to see a vast collection of over 250,000 objects, including fashion, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts. You'll also get a unique view into the working areas of curators and conservators. TikTok+2

No, it's a working museum warehouse. Instead of curated galleries, it's an expansive space where you can explore artifacts at your own pace and see them in their storage or restoration context. TikTokReddit

While many objects are behind protective displays, the V&A East Storehouse encourages close examination. You can often get very close to read labels and appreciate the details of the artifacts. Reddit

Absolutely! The V&A East Storehouse is a designer's paradise, holding vast collections that can inspire designers and art students. It's a treasure trove of creativity. TikTokReddit

The interior is impressive with its height and volume, designed to house and display art and objects. It's a space that feels both grand and intimate, allowing for close inspection of items. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site run by one of the area's best bakeries, offering a great spot to relax and refuel. TikTok

While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or not at all within the exhibition spaces to protect the artifacts. The on-site cafe is a good option. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage or ask staff if unsure. Reddit

The sheer scale of the object displays and the unique behind-the-scenes views offer many photographic opportunities. The 'Order an Object' viewing areas and the vast storage racks can be particularly striking. TikTok+1

Yes, you can keep your phone on you and use it for photography for personal use. The V&A app might also offer AR features that can enhance your photo-taking experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The V&A East Storehouse offers a unique and engaging experience for families. Its vast collection of objects, from fashion to furniture, can spark curiosity in children of all ages. The behind-the-scenes glimpses of conservators at work can be particularly fascinating, turning the visit into an educational adventure. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the busiest periods. While general entry is free, check for any special family-friendly events or exhibitions. The spacious layout and the ability to get close to many displays make it manageable for families with young children. Remember to utilize the lockers for bags and coats to keep hands free for exploring! Reddit

🎨 Design Enthusiasts & Creatives

For designers, artists, and anyone with a passion for creativity, the V&A East Storehouse is an absolute must-visit. It's described as a designer's paradise, housing an immense collection of objects that span centuries and styles. TikTok+1 You can explore everything from historical textiles and fashion to furniture and decorative arts, providing a rich source of inspiration and research material. Reddit

The opportunity to see objects in their storage and conservation context offers a unique perspective on materiality and preservation. The 'Order an Object' service is also a fantastic resource for those seeking specific items for study or inspiration. TikTokReddit Allow ample time to absorb the sheer volume and diversity of the collections. TikTok

🤓 History Buffs & Researchers

The V&A East Storehouse is a treasure trove for history buffs and researchers, housing over 250,000 objects and 350,000 books. TikTok It provides a rare chance to see artifacts that are not typically on public display, offering deep dives into various historical periods and artistic movements. Reddit The 'Order an Object' service is particularly valuable for researchers needing access to specific archival materials. TikTokReddit

Beyond the objects themselves, the insight into the conservation and curatorial processes offers a fascinating look at how history is preserved and interpreted. TikTokReddit The sheer breadth of the collection means you can find items related to fashion, furniture, ceramics, metalwork, and much more, making it an invaluable resource for academic study or personal exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The V&A East Storehouse: A New Kind of Museum

The V&A East Storehouse represents a groundbreaking approach to museum display and public engagement. Unlike traditional museums that showcase curated selections, this facility is a working storehouse where over 250,000 objects from the V&A's vast collection are housed, conserved, and prepared for loan. Visitors get an unprecedented look behind the scenes, witnessing the intricate work of curators and conservators in action. This transparency offers a unique perspective on how cultural heritage is preserved and managed, making the experience both educational and deeply engaging. TikTok+2

The sheer scale of the V&A East Storehouse is awe-inspiring, spanning four levels and described as being bigger than 30 basketball courts. TikTok This immense space allows for the display of a diverse range of artifacts, from ancient treasures to contemporary designs, covering 5,000 years of creativity. The 'Order an Object' service further enhances the visitor experience, allowing individuals to request specific items not on public display, such as iconic costumes or historical documents, with advance notice. TikTokReddit This innovative model transforms the museum visit from passive observation to active discovery, making it a must-see for anyone interested in art, design, and the preservation of history. TikTokReddit

Key features that set the V&A East Storehouse apart include its commitment to transparency, its vast and varied collection, and its innovative visitor services. The building itself, while unpretentious from the outside, boasts impressive height and volume internally, designed to accommodate and showcase the extensive collections. Reddit The climate-controlled environment ensures the preservation of delicate artifacts, contributing to the museum's role as a vital hub for cultural heritage. Reddit It's a space where history is not just displayed but actively cared for and studied, offering a truly unique and enriching experience for all visitors. TikTok

Exploring the David Bowie Collection

For fans of the iconic musician David Bowie, the V&A East Storehouse offers a special opportunity to get up close with his creative legacy. While the full archive might require specific access, the museum often features key pieces from Bowie's collection within its general displays. These can include his distinctive costumes, musical instruments, and props, providing a tangible connection to his artistic journey. Reddit+1

Access to the dedicated David Bowie exhibition or archive may require advance booking and specific tickets. It's essential to check the V&A's official website for the latest information on exhibition availability, opening times, and how to secure your spot. Reddit Visitors who have experienced this exhibition often describe it as a highlight, offering deep insights into Bowie's innovative approach to performance and visual art. Reddit Even if you can't access the full archive, the general displays often contain fascinating items that celebrate his enduring impact on music and culture. Reddit