Go visit the Museum of London

A piece from the Cheapside Hoarde, part of a special display of Tudor & Stuart jewels at the Museum of London

PLACES/ENTS & LEISURE

By Muhsin Mustafa

I must confess I hadn’t been to Museum of London until a few months ago: it is now one of my favourites. Its architecture and size doesn’t measure up to that of the British Museum, but it has so much to offer. Set out in a chronological order, it flows smoothly from one era to the next, helping you to live the story of life in London.

The first exhibit is London before London: from the prehistoric age to AD 50, with a vast collection of objects. It leads to Roman London, then to Medieval London. There’s also War, Plague and Fire, each helping visitors to visualise difficult times in the City.

Venture to the lower floor for the Victorian Walk, Modern London and Expanding City for more displays. These include clothes, jewellery, veteran cars and the first mobile phone. In the City Gallery, set your sights on the amazing coach that carries the Lord Mayor of the City of London.

There are often special collections that require paid entry. Currently it’s the stunning Cheapside Hoard comprising around 500 pieces of Tudor and early Stuart era jewels , jewellery and hair ornaments. It is the largest surviving collection from the period – Tudor jewellery was very often reset and reused. This special display ends on Sunday 27 April. 

The museum offers many attractions for all the family to have fun and learn at the same time. There are short videos on the Great Fire of London and the Plague, as well as the pleasure gardens, visual interactive Q&A tables and much more.

Take in one of the regular guided tours and talks available each day for stories and facts that are not available via the exhibit plaques.

Free entry, Barbican. museumoflondon.org.uk