How to make the most of Madame Tussauds in London
Madame Tussauds in London is a world-famous wax museum that is home to over 250 lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. The museum is a popular tourist destination, and it can be crowded, especially during peak season. However, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your visit.
Arrive early
The museum opens at 10 am and closes at 3 pm Monday to Friday, and opens at 10 am and closes at 4 pm Saturday to Sunday. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid the crowds. This will give you plenty of time to explore the museum before it gets too busy.
Start at the top
The museum is arranged in chronological order, so it’s best to start at the top and work your way down. This will allow you to see the exhibits in the order they were intended to be seen.
Take your time
There’s a lot to see at Madame Tussauds, so don’t rush through. Take your time and enjoy each exhibit. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits, so be sure to try them out.
Don’t forget the gift shop
The gift shop at Madame Tussauds is a great place to pick up souvenirs of your visit. You can find everything from t-shirts and mugs to wax figures and books.
See the late Robin Williams before you exit
The late Robin Williams has a wax figure at Madame Tussauds, and it’s a must-see for any fan of the actor. The figure is located right outside the exit of the gift shop.
Photos with the Royal Family
To take photos with the Royal family there will be a charge for professional photos and keyring of around £10.
Here are some additional tips
Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you wear shoes that are comfortable.
Bring a camera. You’ll wante to take pictures of all the wax figures you see.
Be respectful of the wax figures. Don’t touch or lean on them.
Have fun! Madame Tussauds is agreat place to learn about history, culture, and pop culture.
Understanding Madame Tussauds London
Madame Tussauds London is a wax museum located in Marylebone, London. It is the oldest wax museum in the world, and has been open to the public since 1835. The museum contains over 250 wax figures of famous people, including historical figures, celebrities, and fictional characters.
Madame Tussauds is a popular tourist attraction, and attracts over 2.5 million visitors each year. The museum is open seven days a week, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
The museum is divided into several themed areas, including:
The history of Madame Tussauds
The Royal Family
The World Leaders
The Museum Stars
The Film Stars
The Sports Stars
The Marvel Super Heroes
The Star Wars Characters
4D Cinema experience
How do I get cheap tickets for Madame Tussauds?
To buy Madame Tussauds tickets, there are several options you can take, and it’s recommended to buy your tickets in advance.
2 for 1 ticket are possible with the purchase of National Rail tickets if you travel by train. Check out their website here.
Another option is to buy 2, 3 or 4 ticket from any attractions in Southbank and get one attraction free.
If you do decide to get the London Pass, check how much you’ll be saving depending on how long you’re in London for here. You can add your Oyster Travel card with your London Pass too. This is why Go City London Pass is your ultimate ticket to memorable attractions.
Unfortunately, they don’t offer student discounts, but buying discounted tickets would be the best option.
Check out my post on a package deal with the London Eye here. I made that post because it’s the two most popular package people buy. For both attractions you can save £20. I bought four attractions and got one entry free.
Getting to Madame Tussauds
Here are the directions to Madame Tussauds London Baker Street.
By tube
Take the Bakerloo line to Baker Street station. Exit the station and turn left onto Marylebone Road. Walk for about 5 minutes until you reach the large green dome.
By bus
Take the 13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139, 189, 274, or 453 bus to Baker Street station. Exit the bus and turn left onto Marylebone Road. Walk for abuot 5 minutes until you reach the large green dome.
By foot
Madame Tussauds is located in the heart of London, just a short walk from many of the city’s most popular attractions. From Oxford Street, walk north on Regent Street until you reach Baker Street.
If you’re coming from Camden Town, walk through Regent’s Canal towards Regent’s Park and it will be around 20 minutes walk through Regent’s Park. London Zoo is situated in Regent’s Park as well.
Inside Madame Tussauds
A few members of staff will assist you in taking a “Hollywood photo”, which you can purchase inside the museum. They will place a green screen behind you, and in the final photo, you will appear to be standing in front of a film premiere. A small A% photo with a red paper fram and a keyring will cost approximately £17.
Inside, the environment felt as if you’re on the red carpet. At the top of the steps, there were several lifts that will take you up to the “stars”. In the lift, A tannoy lady will say “You are now in Hollywood and on the red carpet, have a good time”. It also had a music background; music suited at film premieres.
The first waxwork you see is Marilyn Monroe with her white dress blown upwards, so take a chance to take a picture with her. The huge red floor had A-listers all around, and crowds of people would be taking pictures with them. There are people that spend an hour there, but it’s recommended to spend 30 minutes in this section.
In one corner, there gathered a group of Bollywood icons, including the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra-Jonas. Among them, you’d also spot Hollywood legends such as Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, and Nicole Kidman. However, no visit to Madame Tussauds would be complete without paying homage to Prince Harry and Meghan. While the wax replicas of the royal couple had been heavily promoted online, capturing a snapshot with them came at a price. It’s wiser to take photos of them sans your own presence, as acquiring a snapshot alongside them could be quite expensive, especially if you’ve already purchased the entrance ticket with a keyring for £17. Additional charges of £10 to £15 apply for a photo opportunity with them, and be prepared for a lengthy queue if you’re willing to wait.
If you do decide to get a picture with them, they’ll show you the final result before you move on to explore other celebrity wax figures. Make your choices wisely, both in terms of time and money.
Moving on to the next attraction, you’ll find yourself immersed in the world of sci-fi. A tunnel enveloped in flashing lights guides you to a dark pathway adorned with futuristic vegetation. As you enter a room, you’ll encounter a wax figure of a half-naked man, positioned on a stretcher beside a sci-fi-themed television. Rest assured, this exhibit is suitable for all ages and family-friendly.
The Sports People
Madame Tussauds London boasts an impressive British sportspeople section that pays homage to some of the nation’s greatest athletic stars. Among the lifelike wax figures, you’ll find iconic sports personalities like Jessica Ennis and Mo Farah. These meticulously crafted statues capture the essence and achievements of these sporting legends, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with their favorite athletes. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply appreciate the prowess of these remarkable individuals, the British sportspeople section at Madame Tussauds London offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the athletic excellence that has made these figures household names in the United Kingdom and beyond.
The Royal Family
The Royal Family section at Madame Tussauds London is a captivating tribute to the British monarchy, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in regal history. In this regal enclave, Prince William and Kate Middleton take center stage, their exquisite wax figures capturing their grace and charm. Across from them stands King Charles and Camilla, radiating pride in their wedding day attire, a testament to enduring love and tradition. Notably, while the section features several members of the royal family available for a paid snapshot, Queen Victoria and Princess Diana are the exceptions—both offered without an additional fee. One intriguing surprise awaits those who observe Queen Victoria’s wax figure: she appears shorter than expected, an insight into the historical accuracy and attention to detail that Madame Tussauds is renowned for, revealing the petite stature of the iconic monarch.
Visiting Hollywood movies
As you ventured into the next room, you were greeted by an encompassing darkness that immediately captivated your senses. In the midst of this darkness, a colossal, interactive 3D representation of King Kong’s visage dominated an entire wall. As you faced this imposing king, his mighty roar resonated through the room, while his eyes and mouth moved seamlessly from left to right, revealing his formidable white teeth. The atmosphere was enhanced by a backdrop of towering trees, their presence evoking the lushness of the jungle, and the faint sounds of dripping water added an eerie depth. Amidst this mesmerizing spectacle, the room echoed with the joyous laughter of children who played by the water, their eyes fixed in admiration upon the awe-inspiring countenance of King Kong. Further along, E.T. sat atop his bicycle with a whimsical towel draped over his head, while Audrey Hepburn strikingly reenacted her iconic role from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” In this diverse array of wax figures, you’d also encounter the likenesses of notable figures such as President Trump and Kendall Jenner, adding to the room’s eclectic charm.
Sherlock Holmes Tour
Tickets for the Sherlock Holmes tour can be purchased conveniently at the ticket booth, priced at a modest £5 per person. This tour promises an adventure in mystery-solving, yet, to be candid, it falls somewhat short of expectations. During my visit, it was disheartening to find that only a handful of curious individuals, three of us in total, embarked on this journey. Regrettably, our participation mainly consisted of watching actors and actresses perform and solve puzzles on our behalf, leaving us with little opportunity to exercise our own deductive skills. The experience left me feeling somewhat apprehensive, especially as I stood alone in the queue, pondering the decision to proceed. In hindsight, the reluctance of a few others to accept the cashier’s offer should have served as a clear indicator that this tour might not be the compelling adventure it was touted to be.
The Spirit of London train ride
Another compelling reason to include Madame Tussauds in your itinerary is the enchanting Spirit of London train ride it offers. This immersive journey transports you through the annals of London’s history, enveloped in a dark, interactive atmosphere accompanied by a backdrop of evocative music and the cheerful laughter of children. As the train gently winds its way, you’ll be greeted by an array of meticulously crafted wax figures that depict the essence of British life and heritage. On either side, you’ll encounter lifelike representations of British guards and policemen, complete with their loyal sniffer dogs, as well as jesters and their animated horses. Amidst the tableau, waxwork children revel in fairground rides, and regal British monarchs grace the scene. Queen Elizabeth herself perches atop the tunnel, bestowing her presence upon passing visitors.
The journey unfolds with delightful surprises, such as the jester on his horse, gracefully swaying and playing his flute, and the iconic William Shakespeare contemplating his immortal words: “To be or not to be, that is the question,” as he diligently writes at his desk.
The entire experience is a vivid reimagining of a bygone era, with bustling 18th-century streets teeming with working-class peasants peddling their wares and the cacophony of enthusiastic market crowds providing an audible backdrop. A knowledgeable computerized narrator introduces you to the various wax figures, adding depth to your journey through time.
Upon completing the train ride, you have the opportunity to delve deeper into the magic of Madame Tussauds by watching informative videos and exploring fascinating facts about the intricate process of creating these lifelike celebrity waxworks behind the scenes. It’s a captivating and educational experience that truly brings history and fame to life.
The American Feel
In the captivating realm of Hollywood’s sci-fi superheroes, iconic figures like the Hulk, Captain America, Superman, and Spider-Man take center stage. As you step into this thrilling department, a darkened room unveils an array of sci-fi games for children, offering an interactive and immersive experience. The indomitable Hulk stands prominently in the center of the room, encased within a metal fence that appears to be struggling to contain his immense power. In the presence of this behemoth, we spectators seem no larger than his calf, and with the accompanying sci-fi music enveloping the atmosphere, one can’t help but feel transported into the heart of a sci-fi blockbuster movie. It’s an electrifying encounter with the larger-than-life personas that have enthralled audiences for generations.
Marvels Superheroes 4D Move Experience
The greatest part of this experience is the 4D animation movie about Spiderman, Captain America, and Hulk saving the world in London. As we watched the movie with the starlit ceiling on a black “night”, Hulk “spat” on us and we all got wet.
London is in a state of havoc and the three of them have come to the rescue to save the world.
Following this exhilarating cinematic experience, we were guided to the gift shop, marking the conclusion of our adventure within Madame Tussauds. On your way out, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos alongside a wax figure of the beloved Robin Williams, a fitting end to a day filled with immersive encounters and enchanting memories.
Annisa’s advice on Visiting Madame Tussauds London
When planning your visit to Madame Tussauds London, it’s essential to keep a few key tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Allocate Sufficient Time: Plan to spend at least an hour exploring Madame Tussauds London, as there are numerous exhibits and interactive experiences to enjoy. Give yourself enough time to fully appreciate the wax figures and attractions.
Expect Crowds: Madame Tussauds is a popular tourist destination, especially during school holidays and peak tourist seasons. Be prepared for large crowds and potentially long queues, especially at popular exhibits.
Purchase Tickets in Advance: To save time and avoid waiting in long lines, consider purchasing your tickets online as e-tickets before your arrival. This can help streamline your entry and get you inside faster.
Consider Combo Tickets: If you plan to visit multiple attractions in London, look for combo tickets that offer admission to Madame Tussauds and other nearby attractions. This can provide better value for your money. Madame Tussauds is not a part of the London Pass, but you can purchase a package ticket at the Southbank with multiple attractions such as Sea Life, London Eye and Shrek Adventures. Another alternative is to get the Merlin London Attractions Pass which also gives you a combo ticket with the London Eye and Sea Life London Aquarium.
Arrive Early: If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, try to arrive early in the day when the attraction opens. This can give you a head start and more space to explore.
Take Photos: Madame Tussauds is a fantastic place for taking photos with lifelike wax figures of celebrities. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments with your favorite stars.
Engage in Interactive Exhibits: Many of the exhibits are interactive and offer a fun and immersive experience. Participate in activities and enjoy the various themed rooms.
Visit the Gift Shop: Don’t rush through the exit. Take some time to explore the gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs, memorabilia, and unique gifts.
Check for Special Events: Keep an eye out for special events or promotions that may be happening during your visit. These can add an extra layer of excitement to your experience.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Madame Tussauds London and create lasting memories with your favorite celebrities and iconic figures.
Other attractions near Madame Tussauds
In addition to the Sherlock Holmes Museum, you can take a leisurely stroll to Regent Street for a delightful break and some relaxation. Just a stone’s throw away, lies Regent’s Park, one of London’s eight royal parks, spanning a vast 166 hectares. Here, you’ll encounter majestic oak trees, expansive green lawns, a thriving wildlife population, and the gateway to the renowned London Zoo, counted among London’s top 10 attractions. Beyond the zoo, your journey leads you to the picturesque Regent’s Canal, charming Little Venice, and a collection of vibrant houseboats adorning the waterway. As you venture further, the vibrant Camden Town beckons with its bustling markets and vibrant neighborhood vibes, while the ascent to Primrose Hill rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of London from the park’s summit. I recommend exploring these captivating destinations after your visit to Madame Tussauds for a well-rounded and memorable London experience.
Conclusion
My experience at Madame Tussauds London closely mirrored my encounters with other Madame Tussauds establishments worldwide, albeit with distinct celebrity wax figures. However, I did notice a somewhat limited celebrity selection in comparison to venues like the one in New York. The expectation of paying for photographs with the royal family, despite their effective marketing, left me somewhat disappointed. These photo opportunities can amount to a significant expense, typically ranging from £30 to £50, primarily featuring Harry and Meghan as well as William, Kate, the Queen, and Prince Charles.
Madame Tussauds London often sees large crowds, which may not be ideal for families with toddlers. I observed a few toddlers becoming agitated and anxious during the visit, particularly on the train ride due to the overcrowding. However, many young children seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves.
Certain aspects of the attraction left me somewhat puzzled, such as the sci-fi area at the beginning and the separate admission fee for the Sherlock Holmes tour, which could arguably have been included in the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Nevertheless, what truly sets Madame Tussauds London apart are its standout features: the remarkable representation of the Royal Family, the engaging 4D movie experience, and the captivating train ride that transports you through 250 years of London’s history. These elements significantly enhance the overall experience and lend a distinct British flavour to Madame Tussauds London.
Despite any minor hiccups, the wax figures offered a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s history, evoking nostalgia from my own childhood. I did encounter a brief interruption during the train ride, but it resumed after a short delay. In conclusion, that wraps up my experience at Madame Tussauds London. I hope you make the most of your visit and enjoy your time here. For further information on Madame Tussauds London, please feel free to visit my Facebook page for additional details and inquiries.
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