# Imperial War Museum — London, United Kingdom

> The Imperial War Museum London tells the story of conflict involving Britain and the Commonwealth from the First World War to the present day. Founded in 1917 while the Great War still raged, it was established to record the experiences of those who lived, fought, and died in the conflict.

## Visitor facts
- Opening hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Admission: ✓ Free standard admission
- Address: Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ, United Kingdom
- Time needed: 3–4 hours
- Official website: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london
- Facts verified: 2026-06-30

## Highlights
- Mark V Tank — British Army · First World War
- Spitfire Mk I — Supermarine · 1939
- Holocaust Exhibition — IWM curatorial team · permanent
- T-34 Tank — Soviet Union · Second World War
- V-2 Rocket — Nazi Germany · 1944

## FAQ
**Are the Holocaust Galleries suitable for children?**
Recommended for visitors aged 14 and above.

**Is the museum near Lambeth North?**
Yes, the Lambeth North tube station is a five-minute walk away.

**How long should I spend at Imperial War Museum?**
Plan 2–3 hours for the highlights. Add time for temporary exhibitions, the museum shop, and café.

**What is Imperial War Museum best known for?**
Founded in 1917 to record the experience of the First World War, IWM London expanded into the former Bethlem Royal Hospital in 1936 and now spans a century of conflict. Key highlights include First World War Galleries, Holocaust Galleries, Second World War Galleries.

**How do I get tickets for Imperial War Museum?**
✓ Free standard admission Tickets are usually available on the day, but booking online saves queue time in peak season. Official site: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london

**Is the Holocaust Exhibition suitable for children?**
IWM recommends the Holocaust Exhibition only for visitors aged 14 and over due to its graphic and emotional content.

**How long should I allow?**
Allow at least three hours for the First World War galleries, Holocaust Exhibition, and Second World War displays. Many visitors stay half a day.

**Is it the same as the Churchill War Rooms?**
No — Churchill War Rooms is a separate IWM site near Westminster. The Lambeth building is the main Imperial War Museum with the large-object displays.


Source: https://worldmuseumguide.org/museums/imperial-war-museum-london/ — World Museum Guide, independent and ad-free.