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Looking for something to do in London besides the traditional museums that you see in every guidebook?
While the British Museum, Natural History Museum, and even London Transport Museum are wonderful must-dos, there’s one free museum and gallery in London that doesn’t get talked about as much, but is totally worth your time!
Enter: The Wellcome Collection.
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The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)
- 😍Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
- 🎭Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
- 🚕Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
- 🚉Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
- 🔌Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one
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IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?
In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.
- Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site.
- International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here.
What is the Wellcome Collection?
Imagine a museum + a gallery + Napoleon’s toothbrush (more on that in a minute) + medical artifacts + rotating exhibits on the human experience.
If it sounds like a lot, that’s because it is.
As the “collection” in the name alludes to, the Wellcome Collection was originally the collection of Henry Wellcome, an American British traveler and entrepreneur who collected books and artefacts on the history of medicine.
It’s not all about medicine, though.
The rotating exhibits can feature anything from the atmosphere to plants to photography.
Who would love the Wellcome Collection?
The Wellcome Collection is a must-stop for any adult who loves museums, quirky things to do in new cities, and beautiful architecture.
Teens would also find some intrigue here, particularly in the permanent “Medicine Man” exhibits featuring old school medical artifacts.
This isn’t a fantastic stop for elementary or middle-aged children, not because it’s boring or there aren’t interactive exhibits, but simply because of the content of the museum not being necessarily the most thrilling for little ones.
Wellcome Collection Exhibits
There are two permanent exhibitions: Medicine Man and Being Human.
Medicine Man was the collection of Henry Wellcome, and is a truly interesting display of medical artifacts ranging from Napoleon’s monogrammed toothbrush (yes, that Napoleon) to Charles Darwin’s walking sticks and plenty of other weird and wonderful things that people have used to take care of themselves throughout the years.
The other permanent collection is all about what it means to be human in the 21st century. It’s slightly more abstract, with artwork, interactive exhibits, and pieces that act as a social commentary on human follies and issues.
In addition to that, there are regularly rotating exhibitions. During our last visit, this was “Rooted Beings,” all about plants, and “In the Air,” which focused on the atmosphere, climate change, and more.
There’s always a lot to explore, and even if you went on your last visit, you’ll likely find that something has changed so you can experience the collection in a whole new way.
Wellcome Collection Café
There’s a bright and airy café when you first walk into the Wellcome Collection that’s fantastic for meeting up with friends for a sandwich or hot drink.
While not as extensive a café as some of the larger London museums, it will definitely hit the spot if you need a bite to eat before heading on to your next London adventure or just something to keep you warm on a cold day.
Do you need Wellcome Collection tickets?
You don’t need tickets to enter the Wellcome Collection.
It’s completely free.
Score!
How to get to the Wellcome Collection
You’ll find the Wellcome Collection at 183 Euston Road, in a very central London location that’s walking distance from Euston Station, Euston Square Station (different from Euston Station) and Warren Street Station.
And of course, you can walk from many other parts of London. It’s just 12 minutes from the British Museum, less than that from King’s Cross Station, and barely a long hop across the street to the British Library.
What else should I not miss in London?
If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!
- Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
- Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book.
- Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.
UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs
🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?
Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here, a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.
🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?
Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one, which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.
🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?
The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.
🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?
For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.
📳 Will my phone work in the UK?
Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.
🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?
Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink.
