The Cartoon Museum

The Cartoon Museum London: Comprehensive Visitor Guide for 2025

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: History and Cultural Importance

Nestled in the heart of London’s Fitzrovia district, The Cartoon Museum is a singular institution devoted to preserving, celebrating, and educating the public about British cartoon and comic art. Founded in 1988 by The Cartoon Art Trust, it stands as the UK’s only museum exclusively dedicated to British cartoons, caricatures, and comic art. Its collection spans over 6,000 original artworks and 8,000 comic books, representing an artistic journey from the 18th century to the present (Museums London).

In 2019, the museum relocated to its current, purpose-built site at 63 Wells Street, offering expanded galleries, interactive spaces, and improved visitor access. The museum features both permanent and rotating exhibitions, displaying works by legendary artists such as James Gillray, William Hogarth, Steve Bell, and Posy Simmonds. Beloved characters from “The Beano” and “The Dandy” also have a home here, illustrating the vital role cartoons play in British culture and identity (Cartoon Museum About).

This guide provides all essential details about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, exhibitions, educational programs, and nearby attractions to help you plan a memorable visit to one of London’s most engaging cultural sites (Cartoon Museum Visit Us; WhichMuseum; Art Fund).

Interior of The Cartoon Museum main display area with comic art on walls

Origins and History
Collection and Exhibition Highlights
Visiting Hours & Tickets
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
Events and Workshops
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Plan Your Visit
References

Origins and History

Founded by The Cartoon Art Trust in 1988, The Cartoon Museum began as a passion project among cartoonists and collectors. After hosting temporary exhibitions, the museum established its first permanent home in 2006. Its 2019 move to Wells Street allowed for enhanced exhibitions and public programs, ensuring the museum’s continued growth and relevance (Museums and Heritage).

Collection and Exhibition Highlights

Permanent Collection

The museum’s collection encompasses over 6,000 original works, including political cartoons, comic art, and caricatures by British icons such as James Gillray, William Hogarth, David Low, Ronald Searle, Gerald Scarfe, Posy Simmonds, and Steve Bell. An extensive library of books and comics is available for research and enjoyment, tracing the evolution of British satire and popular culture (Cartoon Museum Collection).

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

Permanent Exhibition: Curated by Steve Bell, this gallery takes visitors through the history of British cartooning.
Temporary Exhibitions (June 2025):
- After the Darkness (April 22 – June 29, 2025): Exploring satire’s response to crises.
- Cats in Cartoons (April 5 – September 7, 2025): A playful look at feline characters in British cartoons (Downthetubes).
Recent Exhibitions:
- The Windsor Tapestry: Royal family in cartoons.
- HEROES: The British Invasion of American Comics: UK artists’ influence on American comics.
- Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers Turns 30!: Celebrating classic animation.

For a full list of exhibitions, visit the museum’s official exhibitions page.

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours

Tuesday – Sunday: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
Closed Mondays and major public holidays

Always check the official website for real-time updates.

Ticket Prices

Adults: £9
Seniors (65+): £7
Students (with ID): £7
Children under 18: Free
Members, London Pass, and ArtFund members: Free

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the door. Annual passes are available for unlimited entry for one year.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and a lift to all floors. Sensory backpacks are available for visitors with autism or anxiety, and large print guides and magnifiers can be provided. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff are trained to support visitors with various needs (Cartoon Museum Visit Us).

Facilities include a gift shop, reading room, and limited cloakroom space. Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

School and Youth Workshops

The museum offers creative workshops for schools and youth groups, led by expert artists, focusing on comic strips, superheroes, caricature, wartime propaganda, and inclusive sessions for neurodiverse students (Cartoon Museum - School Workshops). Workshops last 90 minutes and are available Tuesday to Friday during term time.

Holiday and Public Workshops

During school holidays, children’s workshops (ages 8–14) are led by professional cartoonists. Adult courses include cartooning, graphic novels, and life drawing (Cartoon Museum - Learn).

Young Cartoonist in Residence

A flagship six-month residency for autistic young people (15–25) from local boroughs, offering mentoring, industry experience, and public exhibition. Each participant receives a £1,000 bursary (Cartoon Museum - Young Cartoonist in Residence).

Community Outreach

Volunteer and membership opportunities are available, and the museum’s award-winning programs prioritize inclusivity and artistic diversity (Cartoon Museum - Get Involved).

Events and Workshops

The museum’s calendar includes family days, scavenger hunts, artist talks, and the annual Cartoon Art Trust Awards. The 2025 conference focuses on commercial cartooning and industry trends (Art Fund - Cartoon Museum Conference 2025).

Check the events page for details.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Located in Fitzrovia, the museum is a short walk from Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Goodge Street stations. Combine your visit with trips to the British Museum, the Wallace Collection, or the West End for shopping and theatre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Cartoon Museum visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM–5:30 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults £9; seniors and students £7; children under 18 free.

Q: Is the museum suitable for children?
A: Yes, with family-friendly exhibitions, workshops, and free admission for children.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed except where indicated.

Q: Are there workshops for kids?
A: Yes, regular workshops and family activities are offered.

Q: How can I support the museum?
A: By joining as a member, volunteering, donating, or attending events.

Plan Your Visit

For the latest information on exhibitions, workshops, and events, visit the official Cartoon Museum website. Enhance your visit with the Audiala mobile app for exclusive content and immersive audio guides. Follow the museum on social media for real-time updates.