Bank of England Museum

From the moment one steps inside, the museum's interactive displays and exhibits come alive, transforming complex financial concepts into engaging narratives. Visitors can delve into the intricacies of monetary policy, the evolution of banknotes, and the mechanics of the global economy through a blend of historical artefacts and cutting-edge technology. The opportunity to handle a real gold bar, a tangible symbol of wealth, is a particular highlight, offering a unique sensory experience.

The museum's collection is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, boasting rare coins, documents, and artworks that chronicle the Bank's journey from its inception to the present day. These artefacts, coupled with informative panels and multimedia presentations, paint a vivid picture of the institution's evolution and its enduring impact on British society.

Beyond its educational value, the Bank of England Museum is also a testament to the architectural grandeur of its surroundings. Visitors can marvel at the imposing structure, a symbol of financial stability, while exploring its historical chambers and imagining the bustling activity of bygone eras.

In conclusion, the Bank of England Museum is more than just a repository of financial history; it is a dynamic space that invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of money. Whether you are a seasoned economist or simply curious about the workings of the financial system, this museum offers an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Address and Contact Details

Address: Bank of England Museum, Bartholomew Lane, London, EC2R 8AH.
Telephone (General Enquiries): 020 3461 5545
Email: Send email (for general queries and group bookings) or Send email (for collection/history queries).
Website: Banl of England Museum (opens in new window).

Travel Connections

The Bank of England Museum is located within the Bank of England's building in the heart of the City of London, a major financial hub with excellent public transport links.

Underground (Tube)

• Bank Station (Central, Northern, Waterloo & City lines, DLR): Approximately a 1-2 minute walk. Take Exit 2 from Bank station to Bartholomew Lane for direct access.
• Monument Station (District and Circle lines): Approximately a 4-6 minute walk.
• Mansion House Station (District and Circle lines): Approximately a 6-8 minute walk.
• Liverpool Street Station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines, Elizabeth line, Overground): Approximately a 7-10 minute walk.
• Moorgate Station (Northern, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City, Circle lines, Elizabeth line): Approximately a 7-10 minute walk.

Train

• Fenchurch Street Station: Approximately a 5-7 minute walk.
• Cannon Street Station: Approximately a 5-7 minute walk.
• City Thameslink Station: Approximately a 7-10 minute walk.
• Liverpool Street Station: Approximately a 7-10 minute walk.

Bus

Several bus routes serve the area around the Bank of England Museum, with numerous stops nearby:

• Bank Station / Cornhill (Stop E): Buses 8, 25, 26, 47, 133, N8, N25, N26, N47, N133, N551.
• Threadneedle Street (Stop L): Buses 15, 25, 43, N15, N25, N44, N133.
• Gracechurch Street / Monument Station (Stop T): Buses 35, 47, 149, 344, 388, N133.
• St Mary Axe (Stop Z): Buses 25, N25, N550.

River Boat

• Bankside Pier: Approximately a 10-15 minute walk (across Southwark Bridge). Services run by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers.
• London Bridge City Pier: Approximately a 10-15 minute walk (across London Bridge). Services run by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers.

Car

• The Bank of England Museum is located in the City of London, which has strict driving and parking restrictions. There are no public car parking facilities directly at the museum.
• The area is within the Congestion Charge zone and the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Public transport is strongly recommended.

Cycling

• Santander Cycles docking stations are located directly outside the museum on Bartholomew Lane, and also nearby on Princes Street and Poultry.
• Bicycle racks may be available in the vicinity.

Facilities

• Toilets: Accessible toilets are available within the museum.
• Gift Shop: A small gift shop offers a range of Bank of England-related items. The shop typically closes at 4:40 PM.
• Accessibility Resources: Large print guides, ear defenders, and magnifying glasses are available. Audio guides are available via the Smartify app (bring your own headphones). Some seating is available in each gallery.
• No Cafe: There is no cafe within the museum itself, but numerous options are available nearby. Eating and drinking are not allowed in the museum galleries.
• Free Wi-Fi: Available for visitors.
• No Lockers: The museum does not have lockers or storage for belongings; all items must be kept with you.

Access

• The museum is committed to being accessible to all visitors.
• Step-free routes are available throughout the museum. If using a wheelchair, make yourself known to Security Staff at the entrance on Bartholomew Lane for assistance with level access.
• Lifts are available on every floor.
• Assistance dogs are welcome everywhere in the museum.
• The museum's galleries vary in size, acoustics, and potential congestion/noise levels.
• Accessible toilets are on the Ground Floor and Third Floor.

Entry Fees

Entry to the Bank of England Museum is free of charge for all visitors. You do not need to book a ticket to visit; it operates on a walk-in basis. For groups larger than 15, it is requested to notify the museum in advance.

Opening Times

The Bank of England Museum's regular opening hours are:

• Monday - Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
• Every third Thursday of the month: Open late until 8:00 PM (last entry 7:30 PM)
• Closed: Weekends and Bank Holidays.

It is always advisable to check the official Bank of England Museum website for any temporary changes to opening hours or special event schedules.

Other Places of Interest Within 15 Minute's Walk

The Royal Exchange (1-2 minutes): A magnificent historic building with high-end boutiques, bars, and restaurants, originally established as a centre for mercantile exchange.

Leadenhall Market (3-5 minutes): A beautiful, ornate Victorian covered market with stunning architecture, known for its selection of shops, pubs, and restaurants, and famously used as a filming location for Harry Potter.

Sky Garden (5-7 minutes): London's highest public garden, offering panoramic views of the city from its lush landscaped spaces, restaurants, and bars. Free to visit but booking well in advance is essential.

The Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe) (5-7 minutes): One of London's most iconic skyscrapers with a distinctive curved shape, housing a restaurant and bar on its upper floors (booking required for access).

The Monument (7-9 minutes): A towering column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering a fantastic viewing platform at the top after climbing its spiral staircase.

St. Paul's Cathedral (10-12 minutes): A masterpiece of English Baroque architecture, with a stunning dome offering panoramic views of London, and rich historical significance.

Museum of London (10-12 minutes): Explores the history of London from prehistoric times to the present day through fascinating exhibits and artefacts.

Tower of London (12-15 minutes): A historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames, famous for its history as a royal palace, fortress, prison, and home of the Crown Jewels.

Tower Bridge (12-15 minutes): An iconic London landmark, this Victorian-era bascule and suspension bridge offers a museum experience inside its towers, including glass walkways and engine rooms.