4 incredible museums to visit around the UK

Now that spring is in full swing and we’re enjoying longer, milder days, you might have started planning fun days outdoors to enjoy with your loved ones this summer.

However, in the UK, it’s always wise to have a few rainy day options to hand.

Fortunately, we’re blessed with a wide range of fantastic museums throughout the country that cater to all ages, budgets, and interests.

Here are four of our favourites that might be worth a visit over the coming months, whether you’re on your own or looking for ways to entertain your loved ones.

1. The National Railway Museum in York

This family-friendly museum celebrates its 50th birthday this year, so it’s a great time to visit.

There’s a jam-packed schedule of special exhibitions, events, and celebrations throughout 2025, including:

• A brand new exhibition – “Railway Firsts” showcases some of the key innovations that shaped the railways as we know them today.
• A grand reopening of Station Hall – This historic former goods station has been closed for a £10.3 million refurbishment since 2023. It will be reopened amid much fanfare and celebration on the anniversary weekend – 27 to 28 September.
• Special behind–the-scenes access – During the birthday weekend, visitors can see parts of the museum that are usually closed to the public.
• A new “Ultrasonic” show – Little ones will love learning about the science behind the railways by getting hands-on in this interactive exhibition, which launches in the February half-term.

You can also get up close to the iconic Flying Scotsman locomotive and there are many more activities planned throughout the year. Check out the What’s On page on the National Railway Museum (NRM) website.

It’s important to note that while admission is free, the NRM recommends booking tickets in advance, especially during peak periods such as school holidays.

2. Sir John Soane’s Museum in London

If you’re leaving the kids at home and want a quirky, hidden gem to explore, Sir John Soane’s Museum in Camden is a must-see.

This extraordinary property was once home to Sir John Soane, one of England’s greatest architects, who built the house two centuries ago.

The museum has been kept as it was at the time of Soane’s death in 1837 and it’s a treasure trove of antiquities, grand furniture, impressive sculptures, and stunning paintings. There’s also a rolling programme of special exhibitions.

General admission to the museum is free and there’s no need to pre-book (unless you want a guided tour). However, the museum has limited space and it’s very popular, so allow time for queuing. It’s also usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Exhibitions are bookable in advance, and some require you to buy a ticket.

3. Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax

If you live near Halifax and often have children to entertain, this museum could be a real find. While entry isn’t free (except for under-1-year-olds), you only need to pay once each year, as the admission fee includes a free annual pass for unlimited visits.

Eureka! offers a fun-packed, interactive experience for children aged 0 to 11. There are six unique zones to explore:

• All about me – Learn about the amazing human body
• Spark gallery – Discover the latest interactive technology from around the world
• Desert discovery – Explore interactive experiences (for children under five years old)
• Creativity space – Get arty by drawing on the walls and more!
• Living and working together – Find out about the world of work
• SoundSpace – Help Orby the Alien test and create sounds.

Each exhibition is designed to inspire young people to find out about themselves and the world around them by learning through play.

There’s also a range of activities and themed events, covering topics such as minibeasts and building robots, as well as outdoor theatrical performances.

4. National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh

If you have the time and opportunity to venture beyond England, the National Museum of Scotland is well-deserving of a spot high on your list of places to visit.

With thousands of historical objects and specimens from the natural world displayed across multiple galleries under one roof, this museum has something to offer everyone.

Walk under the towering Tyrannosaurus rex who guards the entrance to the Natural World galleries. Stroll through stunning displays of the best decorative art, fashion, design, and style. Or immerse yourself in Scottish history and archaeology.

With so much to take in, you might need to plan several day trips to make the most of what’s on offer.

Thankfully, general admission is free, although there may be a small fee for some of the many special exhibitions that the museum hosts throughout the year.

There are also several cafes and eating spaces to enjoy if you need to take a break and refuel between galleries.

Get in touch

If you’d like help managing your finances so that you can enjoy more holiday adventures while keeping your long-term plan on track, we‘d love to hear from you.

Please get in touch by emailing info@lloydosullivan.co.uk or call 020 8941 9779 to see how we can assist you.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.