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London is home to dozens of museums, on everything from gardening to fans (the flappy hot weather sort). Here are those I consider of special interest, and in order of personal preference.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
Simply superb. Said to be the greatest museum of Decorative arts not just in the UK, or Europe, but in the world, and I can believe it. It is a huge palace of beauties in a gorgeous building. Packed with furniture, textiles, sculpture, carving, metal work, porcelain, paintings, drawings, jewelry, fashion and more. The collection is drawn from around the world and from the last 1000 years or so. At the moment the museum is going through a period of change, its "Future Plan", so much is closed off whilst work is done. But don't let this put you off. There is still more than enough there to keep you gazing for several days. More
The Natural History Museum
A close neighbour to the V&A (above) this gorgeous building is packed with skeletons, fossils, stuffed animals, pickled insects and animatronics. It will delight children and adults alike. More
The British Museum
London's museum of historical archeological bits and bobs. One of the greatest museum's in the world with an incredible collection. Among the highlights are the egyptian mummies, the Parthenon sculptures, the Rosetta Stone and more and more. More
Sir John Soane's Museum
This museum houses in the Sir John Soane's home is a mere stone's throw from The British Museum. It is a fabulous little place packed full to the rafters with all manner or curious: paintings, antiquities, furniture and so much more. I am almost loathe to mention the place as after many years of obscurity it has become a popular attraction, and I fear for the fragility of the interior and contents. Be warned that on busy days you may have to queue, and do take care when wandering about.
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The Wallace Collection
Part museum, part gallery, the Wallace Collection houses a superb collection of works, the finest private collection of art ever assembled by one family. It is home to one of the best collections of French 18th-century pictures, porcelain and furniture in the world, a remarkable array of 17th-century paintings and a superb armoury. It is like a mini V&A and National Gallery combined in a beautiful stately home.
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