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Cartoon Museum London

4.1
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the vibrant history of British cartooning, from sharp political satire to beloved comic art. A unique cultural gem.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
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The Cartoon Museum - Image 1

Cartoon Museum London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the vibrant history of British cartooning, from sharp political satire to beloved comic art. A unique cultural gem.

4.1
(1k reviews)

"A small, quirky, welcoming museum that can be toured in 30 minutes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

See what's new! Temporary exhibits often feature exciting contemporary artists and themes .

🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist

The kids' drawing area is fun for all ages, not just children! :artist_palette:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Golden Age of Political Cartoons

The Golden Age of Political Cartoons

Permanent Collection

Explore centuries of British satire, from witty 18th-century prints to sharp modern commentary.

Evolution of Comic Art

Evolution of Comic Art

Permanent Collection

Trace the journey of British comic strips and graphic novels through diverse and engaging displays.

Temporary Exhibitions

Temporary Exhibitions

Gallery Spaces

Discover rotating showcases featuring contemporary artists, sci-fi themes, and beloved characters.

Kids' Drawing Zone

Kids' Drawing Zone

Interactive Area

A fun, hands-on space for younger visitors to unleash their creativity and draw their own cartoons.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Deeper Dive

While small, the Cartoon Museum London packs a punch. To truly appreciate the evolution of British cartooning, allocate at least 1-2 hours. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're interested in the historical political cartoons which are a major draw.Reddit

Beyond the Exhibits: Interactive Fun

Don't miss the dedicated drawing area for kids, making it a great spot for families.TikTok The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, so check their schedule for current highlights that might appeal to your interests, from sci-fi comics to specific artist retrospectives.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (post-lunch)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique artist talks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My cat illustration has made it into the cartoon museum in London 🐈‍⬛ !! ✏️ Thanks to illustration fair and the cartoon museum for having me be a small part of this lovely exhibition 👧🏻💖 #victoriacatten #catillustration #cutekeychain
@victoriacatten
100 likes • 1.5K views

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

See what's new! Temporary exhibits often feature exciting contemporary artists and themes.Reddit

🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist

The kids' drawing area is fun for all ages, not just children! :artist_palette:

Si Buscas un plan diferente en Londres The Cartoon Museum es una experiencia increíble 😍 Hay exposiciones llenas de historia del cómic británico, una zona para que los niños creen sus propios dibujos 🖍️ y una tienda para amantes del arte Perfecto para familias, fans del cómic y curiosos 🎭 📍 The Cartoon Museum, Londres #CartoonMuseum #Londres #PlanEnLondres #MuseosDeLondres #ArteYComics
@studyeneluk
18 likes • 578 views
reddit.com

Things to do in Bloomsbury (other than the British museum)

🛍️ Souvenir Treasures

The gift shop is a gem for graphic novels, zines, and unique cartoon art.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sights

Pair your visit with the Fitzrovia Chapel for a perfect cultural afternoon.Reddit

reddit.com

'V for Vendetta' Original Artwork @ London's Cartoon Museum

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

See what's new! Temporary exhibits often feature exciting contemporary artists and themes.Reddit

🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist

The kids' drawing area is fun for all ages, not just children! :artist_palette:

🛍️ Souvenir Treasures

The gift shop is a gem for graphic novels, zines, and unique cartoon art.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sights

Pair your visit with the Fitzrovia Chapel for a perfect cultural afternoon.Reddit

⏱️ Quick but Mighty

Can be toured in about 30 minutes, perfect for a shorter visit.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Cartoon Museum London for its well-curated collections, especially the historical political cartoons and the evolution of British comic art. The friendly atmosphere and the excellent gift shop are frequently highlighted. Some wish for a larger space, but most find it a charming and worthwhile visit for its unique focus.

"Really enjoyed this space. As someone who really enjoys animation and specially political cartoons this museum is very well curated.

It takes you through the history of political cartoons and their evolutions and it is a great place for someone who genuinely enjoys either history politics or animation and specially all three.

They also have a little room for drawings for kids which I felt was great.

There's also a separate section of the future of cartoons focusing on Sci-Fi pulp magazines and comic books which was also interesting. Well worth a visit."

Taha Khambaty

"If you are somehow interested in cartoons and/or comics, this place is difficult to pass by. Come in to learn a history of cartoons dated back to 16th century. At the time of my visit there wad also available a future comics exhibition.

If you plan to buy a souvenir there's a shop in the museum, with graphic novels, zines and other merch."

Tomasz Nguyen xuan

"Small and well formed. Whistle stop tour through cartoons and cartooning. Loads of ground to cover and did it well in a small space

Agree with other comments that I’d love to see a bigger space, with more room to show, better lighting and on ground floor.

The gift shop is well good for all sorts of stuff. 🧡"

John Ryan

What People Like

Rich historical cartoons
Evolution of comic art
Excellent gift shop

What People Dislike

Wish for larger space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cartoon Museum London is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Tube stations are Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road, both within a 10-15 minute walk. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Check TfL's website for the most up-to-date travel information.TikTok

Yes, The Cartoon Museum is located at 63 Wells Street, London, W1A 3AE. It's nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring the area.TikTok

On-street parking in the Fitzrovia area can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport. The nearest car parks are typically a short walk away, but check parking apps for real-time availability and pricing.

Absolutely! Several bus routes stop near Wells Street, including those serving Oxford Street and Regent Street. It's a great way to see more of London on your way. Check your preferred journey planner for the best bus options.

The museum aims to be accessible. While it's a smaller venue, they have made efforts to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but typically there's a modest entry fee. It's best to check the official Cartoon Museum London website for the most current ticket prices and any potential concessions.Reddit

The museum generally opens mid-morning and closes in the late afternoon. Specific opening times can change, so always consult the Cartoon Museum London opening hours on their website before your visit.TikTok

While walk-ins are usually welcome, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak times or for special exhibitions, to guarantee your entry and potentially save time.Reddit

Yes, the museum often offers concessions for students, seniors, and children. Check their website for details on eligibility and pricing for discounted tickets.

An Oyster card is for travel on London's public transport, not for museum admission. You'll need to purchase separate tickets for entry to the Cartoon Museum London.

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases a wide range of British cartoon art, from historical political satire and editorial cartoons to comic strips, animation, and contemporary illustration.TikTokReddit

Yes, it's very family-friendly! There's a dedicated drawing area for kids to get creative, and the exhibits are engaging for various ages.TikTok

Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the collections and temporary exhibitions thoroughly. It's a compact museum, but rich in content.Reddit

Beyond the drawing zone, the museum often features displays that encourage engagement with the history and techniques of cartooning, making it more than just a passive viewing experience.

The gift shop is highly praised for its selection of graphic novels, zines, art prints, and unique cartoon-themed merchandise, making it a great place to find a souvenir.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, the surrounding Fitzrovia area is brimming with diverse cafes, pubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.

It's generally not permitted to consume outside food and drinks within the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There are usually designated areas or nearby spots where you can enjoy a break.

Fitzrovia offers a fantastic culinary scene. You'll find everything from quick bites and casual cafes to more upscale dining options. Explore the streets around Wells Street for plenty of choices.

Yes, London, and particularly areas like Fitzrovia, are very accommodating to dietary needs. You'll easily find restaurants offering a wide array of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

You can find a range of dining options to fit different budgets. From affordable sandwich shops and cafes to mid-range restaurants, there are choices for everyone.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the Cartoon Museum London, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. Always check for specific signage or ask staff if unsure.

The main restriction is usually on flash photography. For commercial or professional photography, you'll likely need to obtain prior permission from the museum.

The historical political cartoons often have striking visuals, and the temporary exhibitions can offer unique artistic compositions. The gift shop also has visually appealing displays.

Yes, for personal use, you can photograph the displayed works. However, be mindful of copyright and avoid using images for anything other than personal memories or social sharing without permission.

The museum generally has adequate lighting for viewing the exhibits. While not specifically designed for photography, you should be able to capture decent shots for personal memories.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cartoon Museum London is a surprisingly engaging spot for families. The dedicated drawing area is a huge hit, allowing kids to get creative and make their own cartoons.TikTok While some historical exhibits might need a little context, the visual nature of cartoons is generally captivating for younger audiences. The museum's compact size makes it manageable for little legs, and the friendly atmosphere adds to the positive experience.

Pro-tip: Look for temporary exhibitions that might feature more contemporary or character-driven art, which can be particularly appealing to children. Consider a visit to the nearby Fitzrovia Chapel afterwards for a well-rounded cultural outing.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those who appreciate the art and history of visual communication, the Cartoon Museum London is a must-visit. You'll be captivated by the extensive collection of political cartoons, tracing centuries of British satire and social commentary.Reddit The museum excels at showcasing the evolution of cartooning techniques and its role in shaping public discourse.

Explore the diverse range of styles and eras, from 18th-century prints to modern graphic novels. The temporary exhibitions offer a chance to discover contemporary artists and trending themes in the cartoon world, ensuring a rich and varied experience for even the most discerning art lover.

📚 Comic & Graphic Novel Fans

This museum is a pilgrimage site for fans of comics and graphic novels. You'll find a deep dive into the history and development of British comic art, showcasing its journey from early strips to contemporary graphic novels.Reddit The museum celebrates the storytelling power and artistic merit of this medium.

Don't miss the gift shop, which is a treasure trove for comic enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of graphic novels, zines, and unique merchandise that you won't find elsewhere.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of British Cartooning

The Cartoon Museum London is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the evolution of British visual humor and commentary. Its permanent collection meticulously traces the lineage of cartooning from its earliest forms in the 18th century, showcasing the power of satire and social observation through art.Reddit You'll encounter iconic political cartoons that shaped public opinion and historical narratives, offering a unique lens through which to view British history.

Beyond political satire, the museum delves into the broader spectrum of cartoon art, including comic strips, illustrations, and animation. This comprehensive approach highlights how cartoons have been used for entertainment, storytelling, and even propaganda across different eras. The curation is often praised for its ability to connect historical context with artistic merit, making complex subjects accessible and engaging for visitors.Reddit

Temporary exhibitions are a key feature, bringing contemporary artists and diverse themes to the forefront. These rotating displays ensure there's always something new to discover, whether it's a deep dive into a specific artist's work, a look at the future of comics, or an exploration of niche genres like sci-fi pulp magazines.Reddit This dynamic element keeps the museum fresh and relevant, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

A Family-Friendly Cultural Experience

The Cartoon Museum London is surprisingly family-friendly, offering more than just a quiet gallery experience. A standout feature is the dedicated drawing area, where children (and adults!) can get hands-on and create their own cartoon characters and scenes.TikTok This interactive element is a fantastic way to engage younger visitors and spark their creativity, making the museum a memorable outing for families.

While the historical and political cartoons might require some explanation for younger children, the visual nature of the art often captivates them. The museum's layout is compact, which is beneficial for keeping little ones from getting too tired. The staff are generally welcoming and can often provide insights or direct you to exhibits that might be particularly engaging for kids.Reddit

Pairing a visit with a stop at the nearby Fitzrovia Chapel or exploring the vibrant streets of Fitzrovia can round out a perfect family day out. The museum's location in a central, accessible part of London also makes it an easy addition to a broader itinerary, ensuring a fun and educational experience without being overwhelming.

The Coveted Gift Shop

Don't underestimate the Cartoon Museum London's gift shop; it's a destination in itself for fans of graphic arts. Visitors frequently rave about its well-curated selection, which goes far beyond typical museum merchandise.Reddit You'll find an impressive array of graphic novels, independent zines, art books, and unique prints from both established and emerging artists.

This shop is a fantastic place to discover new talent or pick up a hard-to-find title. It reflects the museum's commitment to celebrating all forms of cartoon and comic art, offering visitors a tangible piece of this vibrant culture to take home. It's an ideal spot for finding thoughtful gifts for art lovers or treating yourself to something special.

Whether you're looking for a classic comic strip collection, a cutting-edge graphic novel, or a quirky piece of cartoon-themed stationery, the museum's shop is a must-visit. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal and diversity of the art form that the museum champions.