One of the largest and most impressive art and design museums in the world, the Victoria and Albert Museum displays such famous collections as Venetian glass, Raphael’s tapestry cartoons and Chinese art. With 4.5 million objects, it is certain that there is something for everyone in this incredible collection of art.
Founded in 1852, the museum is named after Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. It contains 145 galleries, covering 51,000 square metres. Collections span from ancient to modern times, and come from cultures all over the world, including Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa, making this a diverse and fascinating experience.
2.37 million people visited the museum in 2006, the highest ever figure, and 19 million visits are made just to the website every year. V&A exhibitions have been shown across the UK and as far away as Bangkok and Melbourne! It could be worth staying in one of the many nearby London hotels if you want to get the most out of your visit. Check out London Nights or maybe try Aparthotels.
To see everything you’ll need a full day, so varied, large and multiple are the collections. There are easy to read guide maps, making it easy to locate areas of particular interest. There is also a restaurant and a garden. Admission is free, and there is disabled access throughout the building.
The V&A’s national collections include: The art of photography, textiles, British watercolours and drawings, furniture and woodwork, ceramics, fashion, metalwork including sliver, glass, jewellery, portrait miniatures, and sculpture to 1914.