Culture secretary confirms free admission for all at England’s national museums will remain

The UK government has confirmed that national museums in England will continue to offer free admission to all visitors, dispelling rumors that international tourists might be charged. This announcement was made by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, at an event hosted by Art Fund and the Cultural Policy Unit at Tate Liverpool on Monday, 28 September. The free entry policy, which began on 1 December 2001, will mark its 25th anniversary later this year.

Nandy emphasized the importance of museums, stating they "light up the world" and enable people to connect with shared history. She expressed her delight at continuing the policy initiated by the previous Labour government, which aims to make these cultural institutions accessible to everyone. Alison Cole, director of the Cultural Policy Unit, hailed the policy as a "landmark cultural policy" that has become a universal public good.

Several museum leaders, including Tristram Hunt of the Victoria and Albert Museum and Nicholas Cullinan of the British Museum, endorsed the decision. Gabriele Finaldi, director of London's National Gallery, praised free entry as one of the UK's "greatest cultural assets," enabling millions to visit, enjoy, and learn. However, some in the cultural community are critical. Former British Museum interim director Mark Jones suggested a £20 admission fee for overseas visitors in July 2024.

The funding of national museums remains a topic of debate, with the UK government recently granting regional mayors the authority to introduce a "tourist tax" (an Overnight Visitor Levy) to raise funds. Some cultural leaders support this move, provided the revenue is dedicated to arts and culture.