Established in 1937, the National Maritime Museum began as a collection of 11,000 marine prints and now provides visitors with one of the most complete collections of naval artifacts in the world, with more than 2 million objects.

Part of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Center of Maritime Greenwich, the venue is considered to be significant in understanding the nautical history of Britain.

From Fijian canoes to violent naval paintings and marine-themed playgrounds, the attraction has something to keep everyone entertained. Purchasing National Maritime Museum tickets couldn’t be easier and are ideal for those interested in British culture.

This is your guide to the National Maritime Museum, one of the most illuminating museums in London.

How much are National Maritime Museum tickets?

National Maritime Museum tickets are free for everyone, making this an accessible attraction for all visitors to London. However, upon booking, you can choose to give a donation, which is used towards continuing the upkeep of the site, as well as planning for future events.

National Maritime Museum tickets with car parking

It’s possible to book your National Maritime Museum tickets with parking so that you’re guaranteed a space during your time slot.

Price per car: £10

Exhibition tickets

The National Maritime Museum hosts many temporary exhibitions, some of which are free while others are paid. While each exhibition varies in price, you can use the below as an estimate of your National Maritime Museum admission fee.

Adults: £10
Children aged 4-15: £5
Concessions: £6.50

Who can get discounts?

Students with appropriate identification, as well as young adults under the age of 26, can benefit from the concessionary rate on their National Maritime Museum tickets if choosing to visit a paid exhibition.

Should you book National Maritime Museum tickets in advance?

While National Maritime Museum tickets are free, it’s advisable to book them online in advance. By doing so, you’ll secure a date and timeslot that works best with your itinerary, and gain peace of mind knowing you’ll be guaranteed entry, no matter how popular the attraction is on the day of your visit.

What are the most popular National Maritime Museum tours?

Small group National Maritime Museum tour

Those who are looking to gain a deeper insight into the attraction than you can get from wandering solo around the site can opt to join a National Maritime Museum guided tour. As part of a small group, limited to six participants, you’ll follow an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide as they hop between each display filling you in on the history behind the exhibits.

Admire exquisite works by the Romantic painter, William Turner, who painted more than 500 marine masterpieces throughout his lifetime, discover naval jackets worn by Lord Horatio Nelson who was killed in the Battle of Trafalgar, and learn about the dark past of the slave trade, and how it related to sailing.

What will you see inside the National Maritime Museum?

An art gallery dedicated to maritime pieces has existed in Greenwich since the 19th century. However, the idea for the National Maritime Museum was first proposed in 1927. It was Sir James Caird that started off the collection by purchasing 11,000 naval prints, as well as a host of other memorabilia, including ship models.

The attraction was opened by King George VI and it also has links with the famed author Rudyard Kipling, best known for writing the “Jungle Book,” who suggested the museum’s name. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of displays, showcasing the best of British naval history. One of the highlights of the collection that you can see by booking National Maritime Museum tickets is a replica of a Fijian canoe — also known as a thamakau — which is crafted entirely of wood and thought to have been used since the 18th century.

How do you get to the museum?

The National Maritime Museum is located just a stone’s throw from the Thames River, behind the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. You can visit the attraction via the train, along the Greenwich Line from Cannon Street. Alternatively, take the DLR to Greenwich Station, which is approximately 10 minutes on foot from the museum.

When is the best time to visit the National Maritime Museum?

The best time to visit the National Maritime Museum is on a weekday, to avoid crowds. While weekends have more visitors than usual, Mondays and Fridays tend to be the quietest days of the week.

Which other museums can be visited in London?

Top tips

All attractions can easily be visited in one day as the National Maritime Museum, Sailing Ship Cutty Sark and Queen's House Art Gallery are all within walking distance.
If you have time, be sure to visit the Royal Observatory (7-minute walk) and enjoy spectacular views of the London skyline from Greenwich Park (less than 3-minute walk).
If you visit on a sunny afternoon, be sure to spend some time in the portico area and enjoy the spectacular views.

National Maritime Museum: Tickets and Tours