Ashmolean Museum
Explore millennia of art and archaeology, from ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces, at the world's first university museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Ashmolean Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore millennia of art and archaeology, from ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces, at the world's first university museum.
"A true treasure of history and art, walking through its halls feels like traveling across centuries and cultures."
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
This Is What You Get: Radiohead Exhibition
Special Exhibition Gallery
Immerse yourself in the unique visual and musical partnership of Radiohead and Stanley Donwood.
Ancient Egyptian & Sudanese Collections
Ground Floor & First Floor
Explore mummies, sarcophagi, and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
European Art & Pre-Raphaelite Paintings
Upper Floors
Discover stunning paintings, including works by the Pre-Raphaelites.
Islamic Art & Textiles
Various Galleries
Marvel at intricate ceramics, metalwork, and one of the world's largest collections of medieval Islamic textiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Pace Yourself for Discovery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
🗺️ Grab a Floor Plan
Free floor plans are available with a small donation, or check online. Essential for navigating the vast museum.
☕ Relax in the Cafe
Take a break at the basement cafe or the fourth-floor restaurant to recharge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions like Radiohead may have a fee. Book tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five floors. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
🗺️ Grab a Floor Plan
Free floor plans are available with a small donation, or check online. Essential for navigating the vast museum.
☕ Relax in the Cafe
Take a break at the basement cafe or the fourth-floor restaurant to recharge.
🤫 Embrace Slow Art
Participate in 'Slow Art Day' by spending quiet time with artworks to connect deeper.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ashmolean Museum for its extensive and diverse collections, spanning ancient civilizations to modern art, all within a beautifully curated space. The free entry is a significant draw, making it an accessible cultural experience. While some find the sheer volume overwhelming, most appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own pace and discover something new.
"Entry to the museum is free. The museum is multi-story (5 floors). It contains artifacts from ancient and modern times and from all past and present civilizations. The museum is enjoyable to spend time in and gain knowledge about past civilizations and take science, knowledge and lessons from them. If you get tired, you can take a break in the museum café located in the basement or the museum restaurant located on the fourth floor. Visiting the museum is enjoyable and culturally rich."
Farouq S. Aldilaijan
"The Ashmolean Museum is a true treasure of history and art. Walking through its halls feels like traveling across centuries and cultures, from ancient statues to delicate paintings and fascinating artifacts. Each room invites you to slow down and look closer, always offering something that sparks curiosity.
It is a place where the past and present meet beautifully, leaving you inspired and enriched. A must-visit in Oxford, whether for a short stop or a whole day of discovery."
Kseniia Feodoridi
"Fabulous museum! The collection is diverse and beautifully presented. There is something for everyone: stairs and sculpture, portraiture, artifacts, and fashion. The staff are very welcoming. This should be your first stop during a visit to Oxford. Try to go midweek in the afternoon for a more quiet experience."
A Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ashmolean Museum is centrally located in Oxford, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Oxford train station. Many visitors find it convenient to explore on foot once in the city center.
On-site parking is very limited. It's recommended to use public transport or city car parks. The nearest major car parks include Gloucester Green and Westgate.
Absolutely! Many Oxford walking tours include a stop or pass by the Ashmolean Museum, offering a great way to get an overview before or after your visit.
Yes, the museum is generally accessible. Lifts are available to access all floors, and accessible restrooms are provided. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
The most convenient way to travel from London to Oxford is by train from London Paddington or by coach from London Victoria. Both options are frequent and relatively quick.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Ashmolean Museum is free! However, special exhibitions, such as the popular Radiohead exhibition, often require a paid ticket. It's advisable to book these in advance online.
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, with hours usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. Some days, like Saturdays before Easter, may have slightly earlier closing times. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
Yes, for popular special exhibitions like the Radiohead show, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
While general admission is free, students might receive discounted rates for special exhibitions. Group bookings may also be available for specific tours or events. Check the museum's ticketing page for details.
For general entry, no ticket is required as it's free. However, for any ticketed special exhibitions, you will need to purchase a ticket to gain entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully appreciate the collections, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore in-depth or visit a special exhibition, a half-day or even a full day is recommended.
Highlights include the Ancient Egyptian and Sudanese collections, the Pre-Raphaelite paintings, Islamic art, and the current 'This Is What You Get' exhibition featuring Radiohead's art.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collections, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions, so always check signage.
Yes, the museum often offers guided tours for its permanent collections and special exhibitions. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or their website for availability and times.
The museum often has family-friendly trails, activity packs, and interactive displays. The diverse collections can engage children of various ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Ashmolean has a cafe located in the basement and a restaurant on the fourth floor, offering a place to rest and refuel during your visit.
The cafe typically offers lighter fare like sandwiches, pastries, and coffee, while the restaurant may provide a more substantial menu. Specific offerings can vary.
Oxford city center is brimming with cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll find a wide range of options just a short walk from the museum, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to consume them in designated areas or outside the museum.
The restaurant on the fourth floor offers lovely views and a more refined dining experience, which could be suitable for a special occasion, especially after exploring the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the permanent collections, but always check for specific signage. Flash photography and tripods are usually not allowed.
Yes, special exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely. Always look for and adhere to the signs in each exhibition area.
The grand staircase, the Egyptian galleries with their sarcophagi, and the art collections offer visually striking opportunities. The architecture of the building itself is also photogenic.
Photography rules for special exhibitions can vary. For the 'This Is What You Get' exhibition, it's best to check the specific guidelines provided by the museum, as they may have restrictions.
Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal photography in areas where it's permitted. Just be mindful of others and avoid disruptive use.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for family trails and activity packs that the museum often provides, designed to make the exhibits more engaging for younger visitors. The sheer variety of objects, from Roman coins to intricate textiles, means there's something to capture the attention of most children. Encourage them to find their favorite artifact or create stories about the items they see.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond traditional painting, explore the Islamic Art galleries for exquisite ceramics, metalwork, and textiles that showcase incredible craftsmanship. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, such as the highly acclaimed Radiohead 'This Is What You Get' exhibition, which appeals to those interested in contemporary art and its intersection with music.
📚 History Buffs
The Greek and Roman antiquities provide insights into classical life, while the Islamic art and medieval textiles offer a window into different cultural histories. The museum's own history as the world's first university museum adds another layer of historical interest to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ashmolean's Rich History
The museum's architecture has also evolved, with significant expansions and renovations throughout its history. The current building, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and opened in 1909, is a landmark in itself. This blend of historical significance and continuous development makes the Ashmolean a dynamic institution.
Today, the Ashmolean is renowned for its diverse and world-class collections, ranging from Egyptian mummies and Roman sculptures to Renaissance paintings and contemporary art. It continues to be a vital center for research and education, offering visitors a unique journey through human history and creativity.
Exploring the Radiohead Connection
Visitors can expect to see original artwork, album cover designs, stage sets, and personal items that illustrate the deep creative partnership. The exhibition highlights how art and music have intertwined to define Radiohead's iconic aesthetic.
This special exhibition has drawn considerable interest, with many visitors specifically coming to Oxford to experience it. It's a testament to the museum's ability to host contemporary and culturally relevant exhibitions alongside its historical collections. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for this popular show.
Navigating the Collections: A Visitor's Guide
Don't miss the Islamic Art galleries, which boast stunning ceramics, metalwork, and textiles, including one of the largest collections of medieval Islamic block-printed textiles worldwide. The museum also has significant holdings of Asian art, with particular strengths in Japanese and Chinese collections.
To make the most of your visit, grab a floor plan or use the museum's online resources. Consider focusing on a few key areas that interest you most, or dedicate a full day to explore the breadth of treasures on display. The museum's layout is designed to guide you through different eras and cultures, offering a comprehensive overview of human achievement.
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