The V&A, or the Victoria and Albert Museum, is one of the leading museum’s devoted to design and art in the world. Its more than two million objects span a period of 5,000 years of human creativity. It holds some of the country’s finest collections of architecture, textiles, fashion, ceramics and sculpture. It is located in ‘Albertopolis’ close to the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the Royal Albert Hall.
Initially the V&A was opened as the Museum of Manufactures in 1852. The museum was renamed the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1899 when Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone.
What Is at the Victoria and Albert Museum?
In addition to having the world’s largest collection of post-classical sculpture, the V&A has art from North America and Asia. The V&A is the largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design in the world. However, it is not just the collections that make the V&A worth a visit. The building is one of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in London. Its Grand Entrance, Cast Courts and refreshment rooms are particularly spectacular.
One of the highlights of this year’s programme at the museum is Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser which will run until 31 December 2021 at The Sainsbury Gallery.
When is the V&A Open?
From Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 5:45pm. Last admission 4:45pm.
Tickets for the V&A
Admission to the V&A is free, although there is a charge for some exhibitions. Tickets can be pre-booked here.
How to Get to the V&A
South Kensington (Circle and District lines) is a five-minute walk away. You can view a map of how to get to the V&A here.
Nearby Attractions
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is close to the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the Royal Albert Hall. It is also a short walk to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, two of the great central parks in London.
