1 / 3Imperial War Museum
đ London, Greater London
The Imperial War Museum features WWII exhibits with interactive displays, film screens, and historical artefacts across several floors including a deeply moving Holocaust section. Free entry with cafe and parking on site.
My second visit ever here I came many years ago and it has changed massively but still as impressive. Over several floors so you need quite a few hours to fully appreciate and explore this place. Many exhibits on display with lots of information,some very impressive artifacts too. A cafe now on site and several shops which have lots of things to look at but quite pricey. I bought a few books just to contribute as this museum is free entry with donations welcome. If you didn't know this museum stands on the grounds where once stood Bethlehem Royal Hospital (Bedlam).
đ Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children and teenagers who can engage with complex historical themes. The interactive modern presentation â film, live speeches, hands-on exhibits â makes difficult subjects accessible without trivialising them. The Holocaust rooms require emotional preparation and are among the most impactful exhibits in London.
âšī¸ What to Know Before You Go
đŦ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews â30,349 Google reviews
Corinne Dyer
3 months ago
âMy second visit ever here I came many years ago and it has changed massively but still as impressive. Over several floors so you need quite a few hours to fully appreciate and explore this place. Many exhibits on display with lots of information,some very impressive artifacts too. A cafe now on site and several shops which have lots of things to look at but quite pricey. I bought a few books just to contribute as this museum is free entry with donations welcome. If you didn't know this museum stands on the grounds where once stood Bethlehem Royal Hospital (Bedlam).â
Martin Oxley
2 months ago
âIt is decades since I last went to the IWM. It has been improved and was fabulous. The interactivity, films, exhibits, talks and hands on areas and the live speeches make it an incredible day out. The Holocaust rooms provide an incredibly moving testimony. The way the story is told and the dark beauty in some of the exhibits shine a powerful light on the darkest and most evil time in human existence.â
David Masters
5 months ago
âBrilliant throughout, lots of space, although it does get busy. The cafe sells quality produce at a price, great seating area. The toilets are clean, but the hand-wash facilities need attention, it takes twice as long as it should to wash your hands, water is temperamental, soap, good luck, and drying, you'll be better off blowing them dry. However it was a great day outâ
Lynn Burton
a month ago
âThis place is so fascinating. I grew up around WW2 veterans and my children share my interest. This place is so easy to enjoy and learn. I loved the screens with film, script and all sorts of information. A modern take on an historic subject.â
Reviews from Google
Overview
The Imperial War Museum covers conflict history across multiple floors with interactive displays, film screens, live speech recordings, and hands-on areas. The Holocaust galleries deliver a powerful, carefully presented testimony that resonates with older children and adults. Free entry throughout, with a cafe on site and paid parking available. Some floors have been closed for renovation. The shop is on the pricier side and hand-washing facilities have drawn criticism.
