If you have been in London for a while, you'll know there is no shortage of free museums around the City! London is one of the few European capitals that allows you to explore art, architecture and history without spending a single penny.
Still, if your friends and relatives are coming to see you after the exam period and you are a well-seasoned London resident, you have probably already seen all the usual museums and cultural spots – the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern...
And you might be looking for some variety in your itinerary, without having to spend a fortune. Well, did you know that many of the ticketed museums and historical spots in London offer great discounts for students?
After giving you our best pro tips on discounted musicals and theatre shows in London, here comes part two: the best discounted museums you can access as a KCL student! Grab your student ID and add these places to your to-do list, to bring your knowledge of British history and art to the next level!
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a must-visit for all history lovers. Explore the ancient fortress, meet the famous ravens, and marvel at the Crown Jewels—all while paying less! Standard adult tickets go for £35.80, but full-time students aged 18+ can get in for just £28.50. Step into a thousand years of history and discover one of the most iconic landmarks of English history and culture.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Without a doubt, one of the most iconic buildings of the London skyline is the chapel of St Paul’s Cathedral. This majestic, awe-inspiring church is not only the background setting of Mary Poppins – inside, you’ll find beautiful murals and art pieces, making it the perfect place to admire some of the city’s finest architecture. Regular entry is £26, but student concessions bring the price down to £23.50. And yes—you can climb all the way to the top of the dome for some of the best views of London!
Royal Academy of Arts
This is without a doubt one of my personal favourites! The Royal Academy of Arts is a wonderful art space, bringing you some of the best exhibitions of the entire City. At the moment, one of their galleries is showcasing Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo, and it goes on until Sunday 29 June 2025. Tickets usually go for £17, but students can get in for £11. What a bargain! It’s a beautiful blend of literature and visual art, and the gallery space itself is a gem worth visiting.
Kensington Palace
If your relatives are coming to visit, they will most likely enjoy a visit to a Royal residence, and Kensington Palace is a great choice for a peaceful afternoon of royal history. Students aged 18+ can snag a discounted ticket for £20, down from the standard £24.70. Explore the King’s State Apartments and walk in the footsteps of Queen Victoria—it's history with a royal twist, all set in the stunning surroundings of Kensington Gardens.
The Design Museum
Looking for something a little more modern? The Design Museum’s current headline exhibition, The World of Tim Burton, is an absolute treat for design, film, and pop culture fans. This is by far the most popular exhibition they have at the moment, so don’t miss out! Standard tickets are £19.69, but with your student ID, you’ll pay a reduced fee of £14.77. Dive into Burton’s weird and wonderful world and get inspired by all the precious items they have collected for the occasion, from costumes to concept sketches.
These are just a handful of the many discounted museum visits available across London for KCL students. There is truly something for everyone, from gothic cathedrals to cutting-edge design —and on a student budget, no less. And if you’re looking for a well-deserved dose of rest and fun on campus, join us at one of our Take Time Out activities. We’re here to help you get through exams and keep you company in the best way we can!