Discover
Imperial War Museum
Explore people’s experiences of modern war from WW1 to conflicts today.
The Imperial War Museum London tells the stories of those whose lives have been shaped by war through the depth, breadth and impact of their galleries, displays and events.
With both large-scale hardware (including the two gargantuan naval guns before the entrance) and exhibitions on the social effects of war, the Museum now covers all conflicts in which British or Commonwealth forces had been involved since 1914 to present day. The museum underwent a major internal redesign and refurbishment and reopened in 2014 in time for the First World War Centenary commemorations.
Visitors will be able to explore what life was like at home during the Second World War in A Family in Wartime, discover how war changed lives in the award-winning First World War Galleries, or see work by some of Britain’s most significant 20th Century and contemporary artists at IWM Contemporary.
The historical IWM London museum displays both permanent and temporary collections on wide-ranging topics and themes from war art to modern day combat. A major exhibition coming up for 2017 is People Power: Fighting For Peace, where visitors will take a journey from the First World War to the present day, exploring how peace movements have influenced perceptions of war and conflict in this major exhibition.
Once you've explored the fascinating museum, discover the beautiful grounds where IWM London is situated. Where the great hospital wings once stood is now the expansive Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park, named after the mother of Viscount Rothermere.
did you know
- All sorts of animals served in the First World War, from horses, dogs and pigeons to camels in the desert. Look out for a dog collar in our First World War Galleries worn by a messenger dog called Wolf!
- The IWM London Atrium and Terraced Galleries house a collection of large objects charting the stories of war up to the present day, including a V-2 rocket, a Harrier Jump Jet and a drone.
- The Lord Ashcroft Gallery showcases astonishing acts of bravery. See the Extraordinary Heroes exhibition, delve into the world of espionage in Secret War and explore key moments of the Second World War in the award-winning Holocaust Exhibition.
WHERE
IS IT?
IWM LONDON
Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ
We Think You'll like
Spiritland
Beautifully-styled 180-seat restaurant and bar.
Leake Street Arches
A celebration of urban art, dining and entertainment live from Waterloo.
Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre
Creating an inspirational neighbourhood
Witness for the Prosecution
It's classic Agatha Christie. We'll see you in court!
Morley College
A free gallery space and a host of exciting events and talks all year round.
G11
Discover this new gallery gem in Oxo Tower Wharf.
Riverside Walkway
Take a stroll along South Bank's leafy riverside.
The Green Room
A new dining destination located behind the National Theatre.
[email protected]
[email protected] showcases a varied programme of photography, contemporary design, architecture and issue-based exhibitions.
City Cruises
The No.1 sightseeing tour on the Thames - choose from afternoon tea, sundowner and even Elvis cruises.
MBNA Thames Clippers
Stylish river fleet, running every 20 minutes between key London piers.
Jubilee Gardens
Jubilee Gardens is a beautifully landscaped park situated in the heart of South Bank, behind the London Eye.
Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar
South Bank's premier steak restaurant and cocktail bar.
Drawing Room
Secret bar in the BFI Southbank (behind the bookcase!)
Kitchen National Theatre
Kitchen is National Theatre's all-day cafe.
Sea Containers London
Seductive and striking, Sea Containers London brings a bold new energy to London's South Bank, blending the style and sophistication of the boutique brand with South Bank’s artistic vibe.
National Theatre
The internationally-renowned venue presents new writing, classics, comedies and musicals.
BFI Southbank
A four-screen cinema venue showing a huge selection of classic and contemporary films.