Victoria and Albert Museum

In 1852, the V&A museum, as it's known, was founded and named after Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. It went on to become the world's largest museum of the decorative arts, containing 145 galleries with more than 4 million objects. The museum covers a massive ten acres and boasts four floors.

The galleries house numerous exquisite objects spanning across the many cultures of Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa. Displays include sculpture, jewellery, enamels, silver, miniatures, water-colours, pottery, furniture, weapons, musical instruments and costume. Experience the largest collection of Italian Renaissance sculpture outside of Italy, enjoy the numerous paintings by John Constable, or why not take a look at the world renowned fashion collection. If fashion is not quite your thing, there is always the national collection of the art of photography to explore.

Among the many highlights are the dress collection which spans the 17th century to present day haute-couture and the four-poster, Jacobean Great Bed of Ware, featured in Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night'. In addition to this there are also the British Galleries to wander through - these displays tell the story of British design from 1500 - 1900, from the Tudor age to the Victorian era.

The countless displays are accompanied by computer interactives, objects to handle, video screens and audio programmes, making this a stimulating experience for all visitors, young and old alike.

In addition to the permanent displays, the museum also hosts an exciting programme of exhibitions, displays, activities and contemporary events. Otherwise, admission is free.

Opening times: Monday - Sunday: 10:00 - 17:45 (Fridays open until 22:00)