Britain Retains Free Access to National Museum Collections

Britain’s national museums will retain free admission following discussions about charging tourists to improve their finances, BBC News and an AFP report published by The Star reported.

The AFP account provided further details: the government announced in March that it would examine charges for foreign visitors, but rejected the proposal after months of consultation. The culture ministry said charging could also discourage domestic visitors and that the financial effects would vary across the sector.

According to AFP’s report in The Star, permanent collections at institutions including London’s British Museum and National Gallery have been free since 2001. Temporary exhibitions carry admission charges.

The ministry said national museums contribute more than £1 billion to the economy annually, AFP reported. Government figures for 2023–2024 showed that overseas visitors accounted for 43% of national museum attendance.

The same report said London’s Natural History Museum received 7.1 million visitors last year, while the British Museum attracted 6.4 million. It also reported that the British Museum was hosting the Bayeux Tapestry on its first loan from France.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan welcomed the decision to maintain free access, according to AFP. These figures and reactions were not included in the supplied BBC excerpt.

Sources

• BBC News: National museums to stay free for all visitors
• Britain decides against charging foreign visitors for museums