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Imperial War Museum

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The UK’s leading museum of conflict covering wars from WWI to present, featuring military artefacts, personal stories, vehicles, art & film.

history

Address

Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ, UK

Hours

Daily ~10 am–6 pm

About Imperial War Museum

Discover the human stories behind the headlines of war at the Imperial War Museum London.


Located in a grand former hospital building in Lambeth, the Imperial War Museum (IWM) offers a powerful and deeply moving journey through modern conflict—from World War I to today. The galleries are packed with real-life artifacts: Spitfire fighter planes hanging from the ceiling, tanks, weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and films that bring history vividly to life.


One of the most impactful areas is the Holocaust Exhibition, which presents a sobering, respectful account of the atrocities of World War II through personal testimony and preserved objects. The museum doesn't just focus on military strategy—it centers on people, telling stories of survival, sacrifice, courage, and loss.


The IWM is also family-friendly, with interactive galleries, kid-focused exhibits, and educational events that help children (and adults) connect with the past in meaningful ways. Temporary exhibitions often explore contemporary issues like refugees, peacekeeping, and the future of warfare.


Free to enter and just a short walk from the Thames, the Imperial War Museum is both a memorial and a place for reflection. Whether you’re a history lover or simply want to better understand the world we live in, it’s a thoughtful, immersive experience not to be missed.

The museum is family-friendly, with interactive galleries and educational programming for all ages. Housed in a grand building in Lambeth, it offers a balanced view of war’s machinery and humanity. The IWM is both a memorial and a resource for understanding modern conflict through lived experiences.

Contact & Visit

Website

Address

Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ, UK