Victoria and Albert Museum

Often referred to just as the V&A, the Victoria and Albert Museum is thought to be the largest museum of decorative arts and design in the world. Its permanent collection spans over an extensive 5,000 year period.

Featuring displays from contemporary and historic cultures found all over the world, the V&A provides visitors with a unique overview of the history of art and design. In addition to the museum’s main collection, visitors can expect to find temporary exhibits on all manner of things from video game design to contemporary photography.

Established in 1852, the V&A is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture. The institution was initially known as the Museum of Manufactures. 

• There are around 145 individual galleries within the museum.
  
• Back in 2001 the museum underwent a major renovation programme that was thought to cost around £150m. This project saw the introduction of a number of visitor facilities as well as some fresh exhibition spaces.
  
• It has been claimed that Queen Victoria originally wanted the institution to be simply called the ‘Albert Museum’.
  
• The National Art Library – a public library containing over 750,000 books – can be found within the V&A.