London
London isn’t just fish and chips, bad weather and royals, it's a whole world packed into one city! Sure, the buses really are red, the cabs really are black and even locals keep admiring that massive clock by the river. But London is defined by its multiculturalism: where else can you visit centuries-old landmarks, slurp Vietnamese pho for lunch, go on a river cruise, admire artifacts from ancient Egypt, and have Ethiopian stew for dinner, all in one day?
Art, music, and fashion also thrive on every corner, from the famous museums like Tate Modern to underground gigs and vintage markets. The weather is clearly unpredictable (layers are your best friend), but London’s spirit is anything but gloomy and the city has something for everyone!
Top things you can't miss
Guides to help you plan your trip
Let's start with the basics!
Beyond the tourist hotspots
Practical information and money-saving tips
Good to know
British Museum Tour - Culture and Controversy
British Museum Tour - Culture and Controversy
From £25 / person
Check datesWhat to expect
Short description:
Explore the rich history and ethical dilemmas of the British Museum on this guided tour. Discover the fascinating stories behind ancient artifacts from around the world, and dive into the controversies surrounding their acquisition. Perfect for curious minds and history enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Discover hidden stories of ancient Greek, Mesopotamian, and Egyptian artifacts
- Explore controversial topics about colonialism and the ethics of artifact ownership
- See incredible treasures like Anglo-Saxon hoards, Mesoamerican relics, and Benin bronzes
- Gain fresh perspectives on global civilizations and their cultural legacies
- Learn from an expert guide about the museum’s unique and complex history
Full description:
The British Museum is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, but it’s also a place of complex ethical questions. Join me on this engaging 2.5-hour tour to uncover the beauty of its ancient collections while exploring the controversies tied to their acquisition.
I will lead you through exhibits featuring Ancient Greek temples, Mesopotamian deities, and Roman legacies. Delve into stories of Aboriginal artifacts, Viking hoards, and Mesoamerican rituals. Examine royal treasures from the Kingdom of Benin, Indian statues, Chinese relics, and mummies from Egypt, all while gaining a deeper understanding of their origins.
Beyond marveling at these historic works, I will shed light on how many items came to be housed in the museum. Through a balanced and insightful narrative, I’ll cover topics like colonial exchanges, looting, and restitution, prompting thoughtful discussions about heritage and ownership.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a richer appreciation for these global artifacts and the ethical conversations surrounding their display.
A word from your host
Daniel
Hi, I'm Daniel, a professional London tour guide and I work for both tour companies and private tours of my own. Being a guide is the best job ever as I get to meet so many people from all parts of the world, and I've taken thousands of visitors on journeys across London.
Sharing London’s history is my passion, and the British Museum holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the beauty of the artifacts; it’s about the thought-provoking stories behind them.
This tour is designed to help you connect with these artifacts in a deeper way, offering fascinating insights and sparking conversations about our shared past. I look forward to showing you this iconic institution through a unique and engaging lens!
Additional information
Know before you go
- This tour is wheelchair accessible
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
Included / Not Included
✔️ Expert guided tour of the British Museum
❌ Transportation to British Museum
❌ Food and Drink
Cancellation policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Meeting & end points
End point
Same location