Where should I stay to visit the London museums?

South Kensington / Kensington, the V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum sit side by side there, all free to enter, with Kensington Gardens and good transport nearby.

Are the South Kensington museums free?

Yes, the V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum are all free to enter (special exhibitions may charge).

Kensington’s Museums: Where to Stay for the V&A, Natural History & Science Museums

South Kensington is home to a remarkable cluster of free national museums, making it one of the best areas in London for families and culture lovers. Stay nearby and you can dip in and out across several days.

The three great museums

The Natural History Museum (dinosaurs, the great whale, the magnificent Hintze Hall), the Science Museum (hands-on galleries that delight children) and the V&A (the world's leading museum of art and design) sit within a few minutes' walk of each other. All are free to enter.

Beyond the museums

Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace are close by, as is the Royal Albert Hall and the shops of High Street Kensington. It is a calm, handsome and very walkable part of London.

Who it suits

Families and culture lovers who want museums and green space on the doorstep, with easy transport from Gloucester Road and High Street Kensington.

Where to stay

See our Kensington & Holland Park guide and browse apartments nearby, larger homes suit families visiting the museums. Book direct.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I stay to visit the London museums?: South Kensington / Kensington, the V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum sit side by side there, all free to enter, with Kensington Gardens and good transport nearby.
Are the South Kensington museums free?: Yes, the V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum are all free to enter (special exhibitions may charge).