As we all know, summer in the UK can be unpredictable. One day it is gloriously sunny and warm, and the next we’re being battered by gale force winds and lashed by driving rain. So, if we can’t predict the weather, we need a contingency plan for when the weather takes a downward turn. London is great in the summer, but it won’t always feel very summery, so why not take the opportunity to spend some time exploring its fascinating museums?
If you live in London, it’s easy enough to hop on the Tube or the bus to get around, but if you live outside London, it might be worth hiring a coach with friends to save you all money on extortionate train tickets. The museums aren’t all situated in the same spots, so although many of them are free, you’ll need a little money to pay for transport costs across the city.
If you’re short on time, three of the best museums are situated next to one another and can be accessed directly from South Kensington Station. The Science Museum is popular with adults and children alike, with lots of interactive games and exhibits, and there is a great blend of technology, human biology and modern and historical science. The Natural History Museum has an impressive array of dinosaur skeletons, crystals and fossils, and the V&A is dedicated to design, furniture, fashion and art from years gone by.
London is famous for its art galleries. The Tate is in Vauxhall, and displays a fantastic array of classical and contemporary art. There is a series of video installations and sculptures to enjoy, and you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the galleries. The Tate Modern resides in an interesting industrial building with twin chimneys, and is often home to some of the most controversial works in the country, so head along if you fancy a debate.
The British Museum is a striking neo-classical Palladian building with iconic columns, and houses one of the world’s most talked about aspects of art, the Elgin Marbles, which were brought to the UK from Greece and have lived here ever since. There are sections dedicated to each of the major historical cultures and periods, such as the Egyptians, Oriental art and the Romans, and provides a comprehensive history on the world under one roof, so is ideal for any history buffs who want to pick up a good grounding in almost any part of history or historical culture.
About The Author: Siobhan Turner is passionate about the educational and entertaining qualities of London’s many high quality museums and art galleries
