4 Things to See at the British Museum

With artefacts dating back 7,000 years from early near-eastern civilisations like Greece and Rome, the glory of the ancients is laid bare at the British Museum. The controversial but spectacular Elgin Marbles from Athens’ Parthenon are so vast they get their own room. The beautiful Lycurgus Cup is worth visiting, too. Considered to be Roman, it’s made from a special, color-changing glass.

The multilingual Rosetta Stone, which helped unlock the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphics, always attracts a crowd and is considered the museum’s most visited artefact. While you’re in this section, be sure to check out the Egyptian mummies as they’re especially fascinating.

It’s not just large-scale monuments which illustrate past lives, smaller items can be just as evocative. Spend some time exploring the intricate artefacts of the Enlightenment in the wood-panelled King’s Library or check out the famous Viking Lewis chessmen pieces.

Various galleries have objects from African weights to Roman coins you can pick up and examine for yourself, with volunteers around to answer questions. These hands-on desks are the most tactile way of getting in touch with the past. Workshops and demonstrations also offer immersive opportunities, so check the website before you visit for events tailored to both children and adults.

All of that exploring and learning is bound to work up an appetite, so refuel mind and body at the museum’s Great Court. The ground floor features cafes serving quick bites and snacks, ideal when you’ve got a full-to-bursting itinerary. If you’ve got more time to spare, dine in style under the magnificent arching roof, of which no 2 of the 3,312 panels of glass are the same shape.

The Great Court is an incredible 2 acres in size, with the Reading Room sitting proudly in the middle. There are several sculptures dotted around the space, so be sure to check them out after you’ve eaten.