Best For
Photography enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet, quirky break near the British Museum.
GB
Museum·Nostalgic, Intimate, Quirky
Tucked away near the British Museum, the Camera Museum is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for photography or vintage technology. The ground floor operates as a stylish, relaxed cafe where visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, or even a beer and cigars. Descending a steep staircase leads you to a 'secret' basement housing an impressive collection of historical cameras, ranging from classic Leica exotica to the modified Hasselblad used in a James Bond film. It is a small, intimate space that captures the evolution of the craft through the eyes of passionate collectors, making it a perfect 30-minute detour for those exploring the Bloomsbury area.
Tucked away near the British Museum, the Camera Museum is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for photography or vintage technology. The ground floor operates as a stylish, relaxed cafe where visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, or even a beer and cigars. Descending a steep staircase leads you to a 'secret' basement housing an impressive collection of historical cameras, ranging from classic Leica exotica to the modified Hasselblad used in a James Bond film. It is a small, intimate space that captures the evolution of the craft through the eyes of passionate collectors, making it a perfect 30-minute detour for those exploring the Bloomsbury area.
You might want to ask
Address
44 Museum St, London WC1A 1LY, UK
Websitecameramuseum.uk
Phone020 7242 8681
Hours
Open nowMon
Closed
Tue
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wed
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thu
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Fri
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sat
12:00 - 6:00 PM
Sun
12:00 - 6:00 PM
Highlights
Extensive collection of vintage cameras in the basement gallery.
Cozy ground-floor cafe serving coffee, tea, and beer.
Rare exhibits including a modified Hasselblad from a James Bond film.
Convenient location right next to the British Museum.
Knowledgeable and passionate staff who love photography.
Time of Day
Brunch, Lunch
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Locals, Solo, Casual Drinks
Reviews
4.7
Excellent366 reviews
The Camera Museum is highly regarded as a hidden gem in London, particularly for its unique dual-purpose as both a cafe and a specialized museum. Visitors frequently praise the extensive collection of vintage cameras located in the basement, noting highlights like the James Bond Hasselblad and various iconic film models. The atmosphere is described as nostalgic and cozy, providing a quiet escape from the nearby crowds of the British Museum. Reviewers consistently mention the friendliness and passion of the staff, who are happy to share their knowledge of photography history. While the museum space is small and can be toured in about half an hour, guests find the experience well worth the entry fee. The ground-floor cafe is also a hit, serving quality tea, coffee, and beer in a stylish, welcoming setting.
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Location
London, England, United Kingdom
