Hey there, mate! Ready to chat about museums? I know, I know—you’re probably thinking, “What’s so exciting about looking at dusty old stuff?” But stick with me! Museums in the UK this year are a treasure trove of stories, art, and sometimes just plain weirdness. Grab a cup of tea (not from that cheap café on the corner, mind you) and let’s get to the good stuff.
First up, The British Museum. Honestly, if you’ve never been, what have you been doing with your life? It’s like the Hogwarts of museums, but instead of spells, you’ve got Rosetta Stones and mummies.
The Great Court welcomes you with its impressive glass roof. Personally, I could stand there for hours pretending I’m a Victorian gentleman. Look out for the stunning Elgin marbles—just be ready to defend them to a local who’s more passionate about Greek culture than you are. Just a tip: avoid the overpriced café inside. You’d have better luck getting a decent cup of tea on the moon. Instead, pop over to the Museum Tavern across the road for a pint and a cheeky pie.
By the way, they often host late-night openings and talks, giving you a chance to feel all cultured. Check their events online; you might stumble upon something splendid.
Now, if you’re feeling a bit fancy and want to pretend you understand abstract art (don’t worry, we all fake it sometimes), then head to the Tate Modern. Housed in a converted power station, this place is a feast for the senses.
You may come across the odd banana stuck to a wall. Yes, it’s art, and yes, it sold for a hefty price. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s someone licking that banana like it’s a soft-serve cone. Welcome to modern art!
Make sure to walk along the Southbank, where you might find some cute little food stalls. I once tried some ludicrously overpriced sushi over there that tasted like it had been caught in the Thames. A proper gamble, that one!
Off to Oxford we go! The Ashmolean Museum is a gem that doesn’t get seized by the tourist hordes quite like its London counterparts. Here, the collections span from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. Trust me, you won’t find these incredible artefacts just anywhere.
And here’s a cheeky secret: the café on the top floor offers stunning views of the city—and surprisingly good scones! I made the mistake of ordering clotted cream, which was absolutely delightful, but don’t go thinking you’ll be able to fit into your jeans afterward.
The museum’s often hosting exhibitions you won’t want to miss. This year, they’re featuring modern pieces by local artists, which is a nifty way to support the community while soaking up some culture.
Let’s zip back to London for a moment—the National Gallery is where your art-loving soul can truly have a field day. It boasts paintings by the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci. Seriously, you could spend a week just looking at those masterpieces. And the best part? It’s free!
One minute you’re staring at The Sunflowers, and the next, you’re contemplating how you mismanaged your last plant care attempt. A few weeks back, I overheard a school group arguing about which painting has the best “vibe.” Need I say more about the genius that is contemporary art education?
Oh, and pro tip: find the Sainsbury Wing! It’s a bit quieter, and you might just have the place to yourself for a superb Instagram shot (think golden hour perfection).
Feeling a bit dino-sore? The Natural History Museum is like stepping into a film set for Jurassic Park. I mean, the massive T-Rex skeleton entrance practically roars “Welcome!” before the fossils and gemstones sweep you away.
Don’t miss a wander through the Wildlife Garden. I once got lost in there chasing after a squirrel that ended up being more photogenic than myself. This year, they’re running a bunch of eco-focused talks, which can be pretty enlightening—and a little less dusty than, say, old bones!
A word of warning: the café is known for some of the worst coffee in London. I once got a cup that tasted like someone had dunked an old penny in boiling water. Spare yourself that experience; grab a hot chocolate from a nearby pop-up instead.
Now, let’s head north to Liverpool! The Museum of Liverpool is a feast for anyone interested in the city’s vibrant history and culture. The architecture alone is something to marvel at, with its sleek, modern design contrasting with the storied past of the city.
I had a delightful time learning about the Beatles, because, obviously, you can’t mention Liverpool without them. And it’s free, saving you a pretty penny for those famous Scouse pies! Just keep an eye out for the cheeky seagulls; they’re more brazen than any football fan. I lost a chip to one once—never again!
This year, they’re running an exhibit on Liverpool’s global influences that’s sure to widen your perspectives. Plus, the local street art is phenomenal—made me wish I had a knack for spray paint.
Last but definitely not least is the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. Seriously, this place is chock-full of treasures—from Dolly the sheep (no kidding!) to a reconstructed Victorian street. Try not to giggle, as your mates quiz you about Scottish history while you’re pretending to know it all.
I remember panicking when I mistakenly wandered into an exhibition of ancient Scottish weaponry, convinced I’d be swept up in some medieval madness. Spoiler alert: no swords were drawn, but there was a fantastic interactive display on Scottish myths that kept me mesmerised.
Their café does a respectable haggis roll if you’re feeling brave. Tip: skip the deep-fried Mars Bar unless you want a very adventurous ride on the calorie train.
And there you have it, a roundup of some cultural treasures in the UK you should definitely check out this year. Grab your mates or go solo; either way, you’ll be enriching your brain (and probably your blood pressure if you keep drinking that horrendous museum coffee).
So, which museum are you most excited to visit? Or do you have any cheeky anecdotes from your own museum adventures? Let me know in the comments!
