The considered guideLondon
London: three free collections to get curious in
An architect’s house, a mansion full of art and a meeting point for health and culture. Three free museum choices beyond an all-day blockbuster.
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Choose the question you want to spend time with. How does an architect arrange a home? What happens when paintings, armour and furniture share a collection? How do bodies and culture shape each other? Each museum here offers a different starting point.
Ordinary collection or exhibition entry is free at these three places, but tours, special activities and some temporary exhibitions can have separate rules. St. JOHN is an optional paid meal in Clerkenwell, not part of a free itinerary. Check opening days before combining stops.
Sir John Soane’s Museum
For an intimate house where the arrangement of objects is part of the experience.
The Wallace Collection
For paintings and decorative arts together; start with one room or type of object.
Wellcome Collection
For exhibitions that turn health and culture into questions worth discussing.
St. JOHN: Smithfield
A separate dining option in Clerkenwell; choose a lunch or supper service and reserve.