Who doesn’t love a good museum shop? They’re like a treasure trove of unique and interesting items, offering a little slice of the museum experience to take home with you. And the best part? Each purchase directly supports the museum’s mission! So, next time you’re browsing for that perfect gift or just want to indulge in a little cultural shopping, head to a museum shop—you won’t be disappointed!
London’s Best Museum Shops
London is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, and their gift shops are no exception! These are some of my personal favorites, each offering a curated selection of goodies that reflect the museum’s unique spirit. From exquisite ceramics to quirky souvenirs, you’ll find something for everyone here!
V&A Museum Shop
The Victoria and Albert Museum, or V&A, boasts one of the most captivating museum shops in London. Its shelves are overflowing with independent designer jewelry, stylish bags, and delicate ceramics. This year, I was especially captivated by their Fabergé-inspired collection. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious statement piece or a whimsical stocking stuffer, the V&A shop has something for every taste and budget. You can even find beautiful pots nestled next to fine jewelry, making it hard to resist a little splurge! Just be warned: I’ve never left without buying a piece of jewelry. The affordable prices, starting under £10, make it impossible to resist!
British Museum Shop
While the British Museum’s bookshop is a haven for bookworms, it’s the Grenville Room that truly steals my heart. Located at the foot of the main staircase, this charming space is brimming with high-quality reproductions and handcrafted objects inspired by the museum’s vast collection. Online, you can find everything from Hokusai wave t-shirts to an array of Egyptian cat figurines, allowing you to bring a piece of history home. The British Museum shop is a treasure trove for both seasoned collectors and curious shoppers.
Historic Royal Palaces Shop
For those seeking royal-inspired gifts, the Historic Royal Palaces shop is a must-visit. Whether it’s Kensington Palace, Kew Palace, Hampton Court, or the Tower of London, you can find a range of unique and quirky items online. From Dash salt and pepper pots to Anne Boleyn B necklaces and all manner of raven-themed gifts, this shop is a royal delight. You’re bound to find the perfect present for the history buff in your life.
British Library Shop
The British Library isn’t just a haven for books; its shop is a book lover’s paradise. With its own imprint of murder mystery books, you’ll find a wealth of literary treasures. In addition to books, you can also browse beautiful prints of book illustrations, adding a touch of literary charm to your home. I’ve rarely left the British Library shop without a new bookish object or map—their map selection is truly impressive.
Dulwich Picture Gallery Shop
Dulwich Picture Gallery’s shop is a haven for art lovers and stationery enthusiasts alike. Each time I visit, I’m drawn to their impressive selection of greeting cards, ensuring my stock is always well-stocked. Additionally, they always have a delightful array of handcrafted objects inspired by the latest exhibitions. The Dulwich Picture Gallery shop is a perfect blend of art and practicality, offering something for everyone.
London Transport Museum Shop
For those who appreciate vintage design and the iconic red double-decker buses, the London Transport Museum shop is a must-visit. My walls are adorned with vintage transport posters from their online shop, and I’m particularly fond of their moquette-inspired range, especially the socks! These socks are practically begging to find their way into my Christmas stocking, adding a touch of London charm to my wardrobe.
Imperial War Museum Shop
Watches and Winston Churchill loom large in the Imperial War Museum shop, a fitting tribute to the museum’s focus on wartime history. With the Churchill War Rooms being one of London’s most popular attractions, the prominence of Churchill is understandable. In person, I particularly love the selection of books available at the IWM museum shop in Lambeth. The Imperial War Museum shop is a fascinating blend of history and nostalgia, offering a unique glimpse into wartime life.
National Gallery Shop
The National Gallery shop is a haven for art lovers and those seeking tasteful gifts. While they have a wide range of fridge magnets, scarves, baubles, and more, it’s the prints and books that truly draw me in time after time. The National Gallery shop is a perfect place to find a unique piece of art to adorn your home or a thoughtful gift for an art enthusiast.
National Portrait Gallery Shop
The newly reopened National Portrait Gallery shop is a true delight, offering a curated selection of beautiful gifts. I particularly love their gorgeous scarves, including some designed by Celia Birtwell, alongside tempting jewelry and delightful ceramics. The National Portrait Gallery shop is a perfect place to find a unique and stylish gift that’s both beautiful and meaningful.
Royal Academy Shop
The Royal Academy shop is a haven for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of goods that perfectly capture the spirit of this iconic institution. From books and art materials to jewelry, mugs, and the most tempting textiles, the Royal Academy shop is a treasure trove for art lovers. I’m always drawn to their textiles, and just thinking about them makes me drool! It’s a shop that truly embodies the creative spirit of the Royal Academy.
Sir John Soane’s Museum Shop
For those fascinated by architecture and the art of Hogarth, Sir John Soane’s Museum shop is a must-visit. Their online shop offers a range of objects inspired by Soane’s architectural masterpiece and Hogarth’s satirical masterpieces. I particularly love the cup and saucer inspired by Hogarth’s depiction of an orgy—a whimsical and playful piece that’s sure to spark conversation. Sir John Soane’s Museum shop is a perfect blend of history, art, and quirky charm.
Wallace Collection Shop
If I could live in one museum, it would be the Wallace Collection. Its online shop is as enticing as the collection itself. You’ll find items inspired by Boucher’s The Swing, and every time I visit in person, I’m tempted by the silken London Map dressing gown. While it might seem extravagant for a whim purchase at £70, it’s the perfect present! In fact, my husband received one last year, and it now proudly hangs in our home.
Beyond London: Favorite Online Museum Shops
Even if you can’t physically visit every museum, their online shops make the world of museum treasures accessible from the comfort of your home. These are some of my favorites beyond London.
Kettles Yard Shop
If I was to build an art collection, it would be like the one at Kettles Yard, a delightful mix of beautiful paintings, handcrafted ceramics, and found objects. The Kettles Yard shop is a treasure trove of prints and covetable ceramics, offering a unique glimpse into the spirit of this extraordinary collection. It’s a perfect destination for art lovers seeking one-of-a-kind pieces.
English Heritage Shop
Over the years, we’ve purchased all manner of knightly play equipment from assorted English Heritage shops. Visiting a castle always whets our appetite for a wooden sword! English Heritage isn’t just about castles; their online shop reflects their diverse portfolio, offering a range of items inspired by their historic sites. It’s a great place to find unique gifts for history buffs and those who appreciate the beauty of England’s heritage.
Support Museums, Shop Local
Remember, each purchase made in a museum shop directly contributes to the museum’s mission, helping to fund exhibitions, research, and education programs. So, the next time you’re looking for a unique gift or a special treat, consider supporting your favorite museums by shopping at their shops. It’s a win-win—you get a delightful purchase, and the museums receive valuable support. Have I included your favorite in my best London Museum Shops? Let me know in the comments below!
Bonus Tip: Museum Membership
One of my favorite gifts to give and receive is museum membership. It’s a wonderful way to support a museum while enjoying unlimited visits throughout the year. Check out my guide to London Museum Membership for more inspiration.
