The Victoria and Albert Museum, better known as the V&A (not to be confused with the wharf in Cape Town, where the A stands for Alfred), is one of the worlds premier museums of art and design. With a massive collection from all around the globe, and a small collection of globes, it really is quite easy to be a bit overwhelmed when exploring this museum. That’s why, though I usually focus on less well known museums, I’ve written up this little guide for anyone interested in visiting the museum on limited time/as part of a bigger trip, or those unsure of whether it’s worth your time.

Why have I specified limited time? Because if you ask me, the best way to experience a museum of this magnitude is to let it overwhelm you. Come with a full day, and let yourself get lost in the many exhibits, of which their are more than enough of to keep you occupied.

What: A massive museum of art and design. More specifically, this museum takes you through many different eras across many different parts of the world (with an obvious emphasis on Britain), and shows you many artifacts as example of art and design. These are mostly furniture, clothes, cutlery, and other objects found in daily life. As well as sculptors, full-on doorways and walls, and of course, paintings.

Where: On Exhibition Road in South Kensington, right across the street from the NHM and Science museums.

When: Daily from 10 am to 5:45 pm. On Fridays many galleries stay open until 10 pm, making it a great time to come if you value more quiet.

Who: All ages are welcome and can enjoy the V&A, but I would say this museum is somewhat more geared to an older audience. I would still recommend it for families, but not for as long a period, and not over the two far more kid-friendly museums across the street.

How Long: There’s so much to see here! I’d consider the museum a full day experience. That being said, there’s no shame in not seeing everything, and just checking out a few specific galleries/exhibitions. To see the main highlights of the museum you probably need 90 minutes to two hours.

Highlights: The Sculpture Hall is very impressive, and the displays on silver, gold, and jewels are even more so! They reminded me of the crown jewels in the Tower of London, only free. The building’s architecture is a highlight on it’s own, so be sure to explore the different entrances and halls, as well as the buzzing courtyard.

Interactivity: There are interactive learning stations scattered around the museum, but it’s definitely not the museums strong suit. Instead, I’d recommend using scavenger hunts and questionnaires made by the museum for kids to keep children entertained. You can find them at the entrances, the stores, and information kiosks in some exhibits.

Cost: Free. They’re always some temporary ticketed exhibits which can range in price from ten pounds.

Events and Specials: The museum has many talks, courses, and special exhibits, which are ticketed.

Nearby: The Science and Natural History Museums are some the best in the world and are literally across the street. Royal Albert Hall is just an eight minute walk, and two minutes further are world famous Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, both which are filled with attractions of their own.