About IWM London
Founded in 1917, IWM London was first formed to record the sacrifice of those who had served in the First World War while it was still being fought. Now the flagship branch of IWM, it is the world’s leading museum of war and conflict, showing history through the eyes of the people who lived it. Permanent galleries and major exhibitions present collections of millions of items from over a century, sharing unforgettable stories that move, inspire, and transform.
The museum
The museum features the First World War Galleries, revealing accounts of devotion, destruction, and comradeship through objects that highlight the lives of those affected from the frontline to the home front. The immersive First World War Trench enables guests to hear the thunder of exploding shells and peer through the periscope to view the depths of no man’s land, experiencing the sights and sounds of the battlefield.
IWM London is the first museum in the world to house the Second World War and the Holocaust Galleries under one roof. By sharing the experiences of individuals through thousands of objects, this space reveals the devastating impact of genocide, preserving one of the darkest periods of modern history.
Experience the unforgettable
As part of the Imperial War Museums collection, this venue provides an outstanding location for dedicated events. Through hiring one of our spaces at IWM London, you help us to support history and heritage, ensuring that vital stories continue to be shared for future generations.
Catering with expertise
Partnered with Restaurant Associates, our premium catering service positions us as an exceptional venue in London. Savour fresh coffee and pastries at breakfast, indulge in mouthwatering canapés, or relish a fine dining experience in an incredible location. We cater to both daytime and evening events, curating menus that showcase the freshest British ingredients throughout the seasons.
Location & parking
IWM London is accessible via public transport. The nearest train stations are Lambeth North, Elephant and Castle, and Waterloo. The closest bus stops are Lambeth Road and Kennington Road.
Santander cycle docking stations can be found on Geraldine Street and Kennington Road.
There is no car park at IWM London. A limited number of designated blue badge parking spaces are located off Brook Drive, behind IWM London. These spaces are subject to availability. Please contact us to reserve a space at least three days before your visit.
Chat to our team
Our team is ready to assist you in hosting a memorable event at one of the capital's most spectacular event venues. Reach out to our team today, and we'll get started on making the occasion a standout success.