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Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution

London, United Kingdom•4.6(254)•Art Gallery, Museum

Discover over 200 years of groundbreaking scientific history through original apparatus, experiments, and artifacts from Nobel Prize-winning researchers at this free London museum.

The Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution showcases more than two centuries of scientific discovery and innovation in an interactive, engaging setting. Housed in the historic 21 Albemarle Street building, the museum displays the actual experimental equipment and apparatus used by some of the world's most famous scientists, from Michael Faraday's magnetic laboratory (preserved as it was in the 1850s) to cutting-edge nanotechnology exhibits. Visitors explore multiple floors of fascinating collections across three levels. The lower ground floor features iconic objects including the first electrical transformer, experimental tubes that explained why the sky is blue, and the Davy lamp that revolutionized mining safety. An interactive chemical elements game challenges visitors to test their reaction times. The ground floor celebrates the remarkable individuals behind these discoveries, including Michael Faraday (who rose from bookbinder's apprentice to scientific legend), Humphry Davy, Ada Lovelace, and 14 Nobel Prize winners. The first floor highlights the institution's famous theatre and the greatest scientists who have lectured there over 200 years. The museum also houses impressive collections of paintings, sculptures, and photographs documenting the institution's rich history. Entry is completely free, making it an accessible destination for families and learners of all ages interested in science, history, and the stories of remarkable scientists. The Royal Institution holds official accreditation from the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, meeting nationally agreed standards for UK museums.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 17:00
Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(254 reviews)
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Nick Esaw

Nick Esaw

6 months ago

This is a very historically famous and interesting museum and lecture hall. The museum is easy to get around with a lift and beautiful staircases. Loads of spaces and books. For me the highlight was Faradays original lab with interactive lecturne. There is a lot more than you would expect..also a cafe.

O
o s

o s

a year ago

So much information on science too see and history of how It was years ago. Well worth the visit and it's free to go the museum. I found it so interesting I am thinking of booking one of there shows on there website. It has a small exhibition on science you can watch and a interactive periodic table plus loads of science equipment.

B
Becky T

Becky T

a year ago

This free museum in the basement of the Royal Institute is super interesting and well worth 30-45 minutes. It includes information about the institute, key people and their discoveries and objects - and even a reconstructed Faraday’s lab! I found myself learning a lot throughout (particularly as a non-science person), as I wasn’t aware so many discoveries were founded by people from here - like the miner’s safety lamp 1815, 10 elements (including sodium, potassium), why the sky is blue, and the vacuum flask, to name a few. Facility wise, very clean toilets in the ground floor lobby.

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Natalie Hershey

Natalie Hershey

4 years ago

This museum was so interesting! Free first of all, always a perk. If you were a stem student, it's kind of magical to see the equipment that the heros of science you learn about in school used! Faraday's lab of course was the highlight. Wow. This is one of the only museums I've ever been to where I actually wish that there was a better giftshop! There are such wonderful paintings of scientific equipment and the lab - I was really hoping that I could buy a postcard of any of these! Maybe something to think about? I'd even buy one online! Loved the watercolor of his lab - would be very cool decor for anyone in stem!

C
Chasen Tedder

Chasen Tedder

4 years ago

Fun, free little museum in the royal institute. They have a couple fun things for kids to see. A bunch of artifacts on display from Faraday and others. Plaques describe the artifacts and meaning to the scientific community. Michael Faraday's lab is left intact and on display. The staff was friendly. The location was clean. The amenities were nice. It's a fun little experience for an hour or so.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution

No upcoming events scheduled

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This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution

Is Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution free to visit?

Entry to Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution.

Is there parking at Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution?

Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution?

Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution pushchair-friendly?

Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution.

How do I get to Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution by public transport?

Faraday Museum at The Royal Institution is well-served by public transport.

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