Madame Tussauds London: Complete Guide to Visiting the Wax Museum (Tickets, Prices, Opening Hours & Tips)

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It’s almost impossible to plan a trip to London without hearing about Madame Tussauds London, the world’s most famous wax museum.

Located in the heart of Marylebone, just a short walk from Regent’s Park, Madame Tussauds is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. Inside, you’ll find more than 150 incredibly lifelike wax figures, set in immersive scenes where you can pose with your favourite actors, musicians, sports stars, and movie heroes.

In this complete guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit to Madame Tussauds London without stress:

• ticket prices and where to find the best deals
• the different types of tickets (standard, fast-track and multi-attraction passes)
• opening hours in 2025 and the best times to avoid the crowds
• how to get there easily by Tube, bus or on foot
• what to expect inside, including the most iconic zones and figures
• my honest review of Madame Tussauds and practical tips for your visit

👉 Bonus: I’ll show you where to book your Madame Tussauds ticket at the best guaranteed price, so you can make the most of this must-see London attraction, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family.

Why Should You Visit Madame Tussauds London?

It’s hard to find a more iconic attraction in London than Madame Tussauds. And despite what many people think, it’s not just a place where you walk past wax figures behind a rope. At Madame Tussauds London, you’re part of the experience.

First, this museum is unique because it’s the very first wax museum ever created. It opened in London in 1835, founded by Marie Tussaud herself. Long before the versions in New York, Amsterdam or Sydney, the original was right here in Marylebone. Visiting the one that started it all already makes the trip worthwhile.

But the real surprise is how immersive and interactive the experience is. Every zone feels like stepping into a new world:

• you walk the red carpet like a Hollywood celebrity
• you pose with more than 150 incredibly lifelike wax figures
• you explore movie sets, TV scenes, concert stages and historical moments
• you ride through London’s history in a black cab on the Spirit of London attraction
• you take part in a Marvel 4D battle or come face-to-face with Darth Vader

This mix of pop culture, British history, special effects and interactive experiences makes it an attraction that works for absolutely everyone: families (kids love it), couples, movie and TV fans, photo lovers, and even visitors who didn’t think they’d enjoy a wax museum.

What makes Madame Tussauds London even more interesting is how often it changes and evolves. The figures are updated based on current events, new celebrities and cultural trends. You can visit the museum twice a few years apart and have a completely different experience.

Madame Tussauds London Tickets: Prices, Fast-Track Options & How to Book

Standard Ticket: the cheapest option

This is the most popular ticket (see details here) and the best choice if you want to enjoy the full Madame Tussauds experience without spending too much. If you don’t mind waiting a little, it does the job perfectly.

What’s included:

• full access to Madame Tussauds London, 
• including the Spirit of London Ride, the Marvel Universe 4D experience and the Star Wars zone,
• your entry is guaranteed for the time slot you choose, 
• but queues are still possible during peak hours (especially on weekends and school holidays).

👉 From £29 online (vs. £39 on the day) >>

Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to minimise waiting times.

Fast-Track Ticket: the best option to skip the queue

If you don’t want to wait, or you have a tight schedule, the Fast-Track ticket for Madame Tussauds London is your best option (see details here). It gives you access to a dedicated priority line, saving you a significant amount of time.

Benefits:

• enter through a separate priority queue
• deal during busy periods or if you’re visiting with children. 
• offers a smoother, stress-free experience 

👉 From £44 online (vs. £54 on the day) >>

The 1835 Champagne Bar: the VIP Experience

Want to start your visit like a real star? The 1835 Champagne Bar is a premium add-on that turns your entrance into a full VIP moment.

What’s included:

• Fast-track entry to Madame Tussauds London
• A glass of champagne, beer or a soft drink
• Access to an elegant Hollywood-style lounge
• Exclusive displays, including One Direction’s hand casts, Cher’s iconic dress, and an ultra-glam Audrey Hepburn
• A beautifully designed bar area perfect for taking stylish photos (mirrors, soft lighting, giant golden frame…)

👉 Available as a paid add-on with limited availability each day, check options on this page >>

Wax Hand Experience: create your own wax souvenir

This is one of the museum’s most popular optional experiences — and definitely one of the most unique.

The concept is simple: you create a wax sculpture of your own hand, just like the traditional artists who have worked at Madame Tussauds for centuries.

You choose your pose (peace sign, rock’n’roll, fist bump, heart shape…), then your hand is gently dipped into warm wax and shaped by a specialist.

In just a few minutes, you walk away with a fully personalised wax keepsake that you can : 

• keep natural
• colour
• or customize with shimmering effects.

It’s a brilliant souvenir, especially for families, couples or groups of friends looking for something memorable and original.

👉 Available as an optional add-on when booking your ticket online on the official website >>

Madame Tussauds London Combo Tickets: The Best Ways to Save on Top Attractions

If you want to visit several of London’s must-see attractions while keeping your budget under control, Madame Tussauds combo tickets are by far the best value. 

By booking a multi-attraction ticket, you can save up to 50% compared to buying separate tickets. And the best part is that you have 90 days to use all your entries, so you don’t have to cram everything into one day.

Here are the most popular combinations:

Madame Tussauds + London Eye

This Madame Tussauds London tickets 2 for 1 is the most requested combo and the perfect pairing if you want to mix a cultural visit with incredible views over London.

What’s included in this Madame Tussauds London tickets 2 for 1:

• Entry to Madame Tussauds London: explore more than 150 famous figures : Harry Styles, Beyoncé, the Royal Family, Marvel superheroes, athletes, film icons and more.
• Fast-track access to the London Eye: enjoy a full rotation in a panoramic capsule 135 metres above the city, with views of Big Ben, Westminster and London’s skyline.

👉 From £49 per adult (instead of £78 when bought separately) >>

Madame Tussauds + London Eye + SEA LIFE London Aquarium

This is the most complete combo, ideal for families, kids, teens or anyone spending a fun day out in London.

Included in the 3 for 1 attraction pass:

• Madame Tussauds: immersive zones, Spirit of London Ride and Marvel 4D
• London Eye: 360° panoramic views of the capital
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium: 14 marine zones, shark tunnel, glowing jellyfish, interactive displays

👉 From £54 per adult (instead of £117 separately) >>

Madame Tussauds + London Eye + Big Bus London

One of the best-value combos for visiting London without worrying about transport or planning every step.

This pass includes:

• Madame Tussauds London
• The London Eye
• Big Bus London: hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus with unlimited stops for 1 full day

👉 From £54 per adult (instead of £128 separately) >>

These combo tickets and promotional codes are perfect if you’re spending 3 days in London and want to see as many top attractions as possible without blowing your budget.

Where to Book Your Madame Tussauds London Ticket at the Best Price

You can buy your ticket directly at the Madame Tussauds London ticket desk… but it’s definitely not the best option. Tickets bought on-site are more expensive, and during busy periods some time slots can even be sold out, meaning you might not get in at all.

👉 The best option is to book your Madame Tussauds London ticket online, through one of these reliable platforms:

• Official Madame Tussauds Website : This is where you’ll find the lowest prices, the most availability, and the full range of ticket types (including Fast Track and multi-attraction passes).
• GetYourGuide : A great choice if you want to book multiple London attractions in one place. Very user-friendly with excellent customer service.
• Tiqets : Sometimes offers good promotions, especially in low season. The interface is fast, clear, and easy to use.
• Headout : Another trusted reseller, particularly known for its bundle deals and occasional discounts.

Depending on the platform, you may be able to cancel or change your ticket up to 24 hours before your visit. Always double-check the cancellation policy before booking.

Madame Tussauds London Ticket Prices (2025 Comparison)

Is Madame Tussauds London included in any London tourist passes?

Good news if you’re planning to visit several attractions during your stay: Madame Tussauds London is included in some London passes, but not all of them. Here’s what you need to know to avoid unpleasant surprises and choose the pass that actually fits your itinerary.

Madame Tussauds with the Merlin Magical London Pass

Since Madame Tussauds is part of the Merlin Entertainments group (which also operates the London Eye, SEA LIFE and the London Dungeon), it’s naturally included in the Merlin Magical London Pass.

With this pass, you can choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 attractions from the following:

• Madame Tussauds London
• The London Eye
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium
• Shrek’s Adventure! London (great for kids)
• The London Dungeon (perfect if you love spooky experiences)

Depending on how many attractions you choose, you can save up to 40% compared with buying individual tickets.

This multi-attraction pass is especially convenient for families, because all participating attractions are located in just two areas: South Bank and Marylebone. Less travelling, more fun.

Merlin Magical Pass Prices in 2025 (per adult)

• 2 attractions: £49
• 4 attractions: £54
• 5 attractions: £59
• You can book it directly on the official Madame Tussauds website >>

Good to know: Once purchased, your tickets remain valid for several weeks. You’re free to spread out your visits without rushing.

⚠️ Important tip: Some of the best promotions only appear on the English version of the official website (they’re not always shown on other language versions), so keep your browser set to English when booking.

Madame Tussauds and the London Pass Plus

The London Pass by Go City is one of the most popular sightseeing passes among visitors, giving you access to more than 90 major attractions including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.

But there’s one very important detail you need to know before buying it:

👉 Madame Tussauds London is not included in the standard London Pass.

If you want to visit the world’s most famous wax museum using a pass, you’ll need to upgrade to the premium version: the London Pass Plus (check the latest price on this page).

The London Pass Plus includes everything from the standard pass plus 4 premium experiences that are usually more expensive when booked individually:

• Madame Tussauds London (of course 😉)
• The London Eye
• The View from The Shard (the tallest panoramic viewpoint in London, at 244 m)
• Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off, valid for a full 2 days

The standard London Pass starts from £79 for 1 day, while the London Pass Plus starts at £109 for 1 day. That £30 difference is very quickly worth it if you were already planning to visit even two of the premium attractions.

👉 You can check the latest London Pass Plus prices and book online here >>

Madame Tussauds London Opening Hours in 2025

Madame Tussauds London’s opening times change throughout the year depending on the season and UK school holidays. Here’s an overview of what to expect in 2025:

• Open every day of the year except 25 December
• Standard hours: 10:00 to 15:00
• Extended hours during UK school holidays: 09:00 to 17:00 or 09:00 to 18:00 depending on the period

👉 Opening times change frequently, so always double-check the exact hours on the official website before booking your time slot.

How long does it take to visit Madame Tussauds London?

On average, you should plan 1h30 to 2 hours to visit Madame Tussauds London.

During peak season or if you like taking your time in the most popular photo zones (Marvel, Star Wars, the Royal Family…), the visit can easily stretch to 2h30.

Best time of day to visit Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is one of London’s busiest attractions, so your experience can vary a lot depending on when you go. Here are the most strategic time slots to avoid the crowds and enjoy the attractions at your own pace:

• ✔️ Early morning (right at opening): This is by far the quietest time of the day. You’ll move more freely between zones and have fewer people in the background of your photos (Awards Party, Music, Marvel, Star Wars…). It’s also ideal if you want to visit Regent’s Park, the Sherlock Holmes Museum or Oxford Street afterwards.
• ✔️ Early afternoon (around 2pm): Surprisingly, this time can be calmer outside school holidays. Great if you’re not an early riser but still want to avoid the late-day rush.
• ✔️ Late afternoon: The final time slots of the day are often less crowded. A perfect moment to enjoy the immersive zones without shuffling through large groups.
• ❌ Between 11am and 1:30pm: This is the peak of the day, especially on weekends, school holidays or rainy days when indoor attractions fill up quickly.
• ❌ Saturdays & Sundays after 11am: Expect longer queues, slower movement inside certain areas, and an overall busier experience.

Where is Madame Tussauds London Located?

Madame Tussauds London is located in the elegant Marylebone district, right next to Regent’s Park, one of the most central, easy-to-reach areas in the city.

• Address: 📍 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5LR

How to Get to Madame Tussauds London

There are several convenient ways to get to the museum using London’s public transport system.

• By Tube (recommended) : The Tube is the fastest and easiest way to reach Madame Tussauds. The nearest station is Baker Street, just a 2-minute walk from the entrance. It’s served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines, making it extremely well connected.
• By Bus : Many bus routes stop right outside or very close to the museum, which is perfect if you want to enjoy the scenery on the way. Useful lines include 13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 113, 139, 189, and 205. Get off at Baker Street Station or Marylebone Road.
• On Foot : The museum is within walking distance of several major London attractions. Regent’s Park → 5 minutes, Sherlock Holmes Museum → 5 minutes, Oxford Street → 15–20 minutes, Piccadilly Circus → about 25 minutes.
• By Taxi or Uber : Expect to pay approximately £10–£15 from Oxford Street, £15–£20 from Westminster, £20–£25 from King’s Cross. Marylebone Road is a very busy thoroughfare, so allow extra time during peak hours.
• By Car (not recommended) : Driving in central London is rarely the best option. Between the Congestion Charge (£15/day), heavy traffic, and expensive parking, it can quickly become costly. If you must drive, the closest car park is NCP Car Park London Marylebone Road, which costs around £10–£12 per hour.

What to See at Madame Tussauds London: The Must-See Zones & Iconic Figures

Madame Tussauds London isn’t just a wax museum, it’s a journey through 8 immersive worlds, more than 150 lifelike celebrities, and several unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Each zone has its own atmosphere, set design and storytelling, and some feel more like mini-attractions than classic museum spaces.

Here’s a complete overview of the best things to see during your visit.

Awards Party: the red carpet & Hollywood stars

Your visit begins with one of the most photogenic areas in the entire museum. The atmosphere is pure VIP energy: a giant red carpet, studio lighting, elegant décor and the feeling that you’ve just stepped into a Hollywood movie premiere.

You’ll find some of the most popular figures here, including:

• Harry Styles, the most photographed star in the museum
• Beyoncé, in full glamorous mode
• Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie (depending on rotations)
• Ed Sheeran, always a fan favourite
• Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, perfect for iconic selfies
• The British Royal Family, including an incredibly realistic portrait of William & Kate

Everything in this room is designed for great photos: plenty of space around each figure, perfect lighting and an immersive soundtrack that mixes red-carpet ambience with celebrity buzz. It’s the ideal start to your visit, kids, teens and adults are instantly impressed.

Tip: This is the most popular zone of Madame Tussauds London, so it tends to get crowded. If you want great photos without people behind you, visit early in the morning.

The Fashion Runway: step onto the catwalk

Here, you don’t just look at the figure : you become part of the show.

Walk down a glowing catwalk, strike a pose, have fun, and share the spotlight with fashion icons and pop-culture trendsetters. This zone is all about style, creativity and confidence, with a modern, high-energy set design that feels straight out of a fashion week backstage.

It’s one of the most popular areas among teens, fashion lovers, influencers and anyone who enjoys taking beautiful, Instagram-worthy photos. The lighting is flattering, the décor is sleek and the atmosphere is unapologetically glamorous.

If you want to capture your most stylish shots of Madame Tussauds London, this is the place.

Baker Street Studios: Movies, Series & Cult Characters

Here, you step straight into the world of films and TV shows, surrounded by recreated sets and iconic characters. The atmosphere feels like a real London studio: spotlights, props, immersive staging… you genuinely get the impression of walking onto an actual film set.

You’ll meet several fan-favourites, including:

• Paddington, fresh from his adventures around London
• James Bond, the UK’s most famous secret agent
• Doctor Who, complete with the TARDIS and iconic props
• Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown), in a setting inspired by the film
• A rotation of iconic British film characters, updated regularly depending on new releases

This zone evolves frequently, with new figures added based on movie premieres and current trends, which means no two visits are ever quite the same.

Culture Capital: Icons Who Shaped Modern Britain

This is where you leave behind the Hollywood glamour and dive into what truly defines British culture: its artists, athletes, thinkers, activists, and public figures who shaped the country’s modern identity.

You’ll come across personalities from several fields:

Sports legends :

• Kylian Mbappé (a global football star now featured in London)
• Usain Bolt, the fastest man in history
• Mo Farah, one of Britain’s most beloved Olympic champions
• Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 superstar
• Cristiano Ronaldo (depending on seasonal rotations)

Music & pop culture icons :

• Amy Winehouse, a timeless symbol of London’s music scene
• Adele, the capital’s most powerful voice
• Ed Sheeran, global chart-topper
• Stormzy, leading figure of the UK grime movement

Influential thinkers & activists :

• Stephen Hawking, presented in a moving and beautifully designed setting
• Emmeline Pankhurst, leader of the suffragette movement
• Charles Darwin, whose work changed the course of science

What makes Culture Capital so successful is the blend of modernity, diversity and historical impact, all presented in an upbeat, accessible way. It’s a zone that celebrates Britain’s cultural DNA without ever feeling too serious or heavy.

The Royal Palace: Meet the British Royal Family

The Royal Palace is one of the most iconic areas inside Madame Tussauds London. Here, you step symbolically through the gates of Buckingham Palace and enter a luxurious, golden-lit setting inspired by official royal receptions.

You’ll meet some of the most famous members of the British Royal Family, including:

• King Charles III, portrayed in an incredibly lifelike pose inspired by his public engagements
• Queen Camilla, dressed in an elegant formal outfit
• The Prince and Princess of Wales (William & Kate), easily among the most photographed figures in the entire museum

The level of detail here is astonishing, from the skin texture to the eyes, posture and hand-crafted clothing, everything feels as realistic as it gets. It’s also one of the areas where visitors spend the most time. Whether it’s a royal-themed portrait next to Kate or a fun selfie with William, it’s impossible to leave without taking a photo.

Impossible Festival: A Mega-Concert with Music’s Biggest Stars

Impossible Festival is exactly what its name suggests: a festival you could never experience in real life, because it brings together artists from different eras, genres, and worlds, all sharing the same stage.

The atmosphere feels like a true music festival: coloured lights, stage smoke, live-style sound effects, and immersive sets that make you feel like you’re stepping on stage, not into a wax museum.

In this zone, you can join the crowd or take centre stage next to some of the world’s most iconic artists, including:

• Taylor Swift, in a highly photogenic stage setup
• Beyoncé, the undisputed queen of showmanship and one of the museum’s top highlights
• Bob Marley, the global legend of reggae
• Ed Sheeran, one of the UK’s most beloved artists
• Ariana Grande, in full pop-star mode
• Freddie Mercury or David Bowie, depending on rotations, adding a legendary rock touch

Chamber of Horrors: for thrill-seekers only

A true legacy of Marie Tussaud’s original exhibition, the Chamber of Horrors plunges visitors into some of the most notorious criminal cases of the past 150 years. There’s no glamour here, no pop music, no red carpet. 

The atmosphere is heavy and eerily quiet, with dim lighting, lifelike sets and subtle sound effects that recreate London at its darkest.

From the moment you step inside, you feel the change of tone. You walk through fog-covered alleyways, reconstructed crime scenes and chilling prison cells. The realism is so striking that the attraction is not recommended for sensitive visitors and is strictly advised for ages 16+.

You’ll encounter several infamous criminals who left their mark on British history, including:

• Jack the Ripper, the most notorious figure of 19th-century London
• The Kray Twins, legendary East End gangsters
• John Christie, responsible for the Rillington Place murders
• Dennis Nilsen, whose crimes shocked the nation in the 1980s
• John Haigh, known as “the Acid Bath Murderer”
• Ruth Ellis, the last woman executed in the UK

The experience also includes authentic historical artefacts from the Madame Tussauds archives, items from real crime scenes, investigative tools and newspaper excerpts from the era. It’s an intense, immersive walk through Britain’s criminal past, faithful to the spirit of the original Chamber of Horrors created by Marie Tussaud herself.

Spirit of London Ride: the museum’s mini-attraction

The Spirit of London Ride is one of the most surprising parts of Madame Tussauds London. Many visitors don’t expect to find a small theme-park-style attraction inside a wax museum… yet that’s exactly what awaits you.

You climb into an iconic London black cab and travel through centuries of the city’s history. The taxi moves along a fully themed track with animated sets, sound effects, lighting and music that recreate key moments that shaped London.

In just a few minutes, you relive some of the capital’s most defining events:

• The Black Death, shown through dark, foggy medieval streets
• The Great Fire of 1666, with dramatic flames and projections
• The rebuilding of London, including the rise of St Paul’s Cathedral
• World War II, with Winston Churchill’s speeches echoing through the city
• The Swinging Sixties, full of neon lights, music and Carnaby Street energy
• The 1980s, with colourful pop culture references

It’s not a thrill ride and it’s not scary, it’s a visual and historical journey that both kids and adults enjoy. The pacing is smooth, the sets are detailed, and it offers a welcome break in the middle of the museum visit.

Marvel Hall of Heroes: Meet Your Favourite Superheroes

In this zone, you step into a dark, theatrical space lit by neon accents and dramatic spotlights. The atmosphere feels straight out of a Marvel blockbuster, high-contrast lighting, bold colours, and a cinematic energy that pulls you right in.

Each superhero is positioned in an iconic pose, surrounded by a themed set designed to make you feel like part of the team. This isn’t just an exhibition: it’s a full-scale immersion into the Marvel universe.

Here’s who you’ll meet inside the Marvel Hall of Heroes:

• Spider-Man, suspended in an acrobatic pose above an overturned desk
• Hulk, the largest figure in the entire museum (a massive 4.5 metres tall!)
• Captain Marvel, alongside an AR experience where you can strike your own superhero pose
• Iron Man, ready for take-off in his glowing armour
• Captain America, with his iconic shield
• Black Panther, standing proudly in a Wakanda-inspired setting
• Rocket and Ant-Man, adding a fun and techy touch to the zone

The space is designed so every photo looks like a mini movie poster, dramatic angles, controlled lighting, futuristic or industrial backgrounds. You can literally pose as if you’re joining the Avengers on a mission.

Marvel Universe 4D: An Exclusive Immersive Film

Forget traditional cinemas, this 4D experience is designed to make you feel the action as much as you see it. You take your seat in a purpose-built theatre where multisensory effects are synchronised perfectly with the scenes on screen.

The film features an all-star lineup of Marvel favourites: Captain Marvel, Spider-Man, Thor, Black Panther, Rocket, Ant-Man, The Wasp, and even Loki. It’s a completely exclusive production you won’t find anywhere else.

What makes this experience so impressive is the range of special effects timed precisely with the action:

• gusts of wind as Spider-Man swings between skyscrapers
• light water sprays when Ant-Man shrinks and dives through particles
• vibrations and impact effects during fight scenes or when Hulk loses his temper
• heat and strobe lighting during battles
• surround-sound audio that makes it feel like heroes are appearing from all sides

Everything is designed to heighten the immersion. Kids love it, adults get fully caught up in the action, and even people who aren’t Marvel fans come out genuinely impressed.

Star Wars Experience: Iconic Scenes & Galactic Atmosphere

Created in collaboration with Lucasfilm, this zone faithfully recreates some of the most iconic moments from the Star Wars saga, with an impressive level of detail. Lighting, textures, sound effects, set design… everything is crafted to make you feel like you’re stepping straight onto a real movie set.

Unlike other brighter and more colorful zones, the Star Wars area goes full cinematic. Expect a dark, atmospheric environment with immersive lighting effects, futuristic scenery, starship sounds echoing around you, and lightsabers humming in the air. If you grew up with Star Wars, or simply know the saga by heart, you’ll be captivated from the very first second.

Here are some of the characters and scenes you’ll encounter:

• Yoda, in a Dagobah-inspired setting with mist, swamps and a mystical atmosphere
• Chewbacca, waiting inside the Millennium Falcon cockpit for an unmissable photo
• Anakin Skywalker, mid-duel in a dramatic lightsaber battle
• Rey, striking one of her most iconic poses from The Force Awakens
• Han Solo, either in the cantina or ready to blast off on a mission
• Darth Vader, imposing and intense, surrounded by effects that give you chills
• BB-8 and R2-D2, perfect for a fun picture
• And depending on the season: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Stormtroopers, or scenes inspired by the original trilogy

Every set is designed to be incredibly photogenic. You can stage a lightsaber duel, sit at the controls of the Millennium Falcon, pose with Chewie or face Darth Vader for a dramatic showdown.

My Honest Review of Madame Tussauds London: Is It Worth It?

I often get asked whether Madame Tussauds London is really worth visiting… and the short answer is yes, as long as you know what to expect.

This isn’t a “classic” museum, and it’s definitely not just a gallery of wax figures standing behind ropes. It’s an immersive experience, mixing movie-style sets, interactive scenes, themed zones and even mini-attractions that appeal to both adults and kids.

The first thing that hits you when you walk in is the astonishing quality of the figures. Some are so lifelike that you instinctively hesitate before getting closer. Add to that the immersive sets, the fashion runway, the Spirit of London Ride, the Royal Palace, the Marvel and Star Wars zones, and it becomes clear why this is one of London’s most popular attractions.

For me, what makes Madame Tussauds truly interesting is how fun and participatory it is. You don’t just look at the exhibits, you pose, play, interact, experiment, and take photos. It’s the perfect museum if you want to create memories, do something different, and add a playful activity to your London itinerary.

Who is it great for?

• Families with kids or teens
• film and series fans, pop-culture lovers
• couples looking for a fun activity
• and anyone who enjoys immersive experiences.

Who might enjoy it less?

• Travellers looking for a quiet, traditional museum experience
• or those expecting something purely historical.

As for value for money, it largely depends on the ticket you choose. Booking online, especially with the Merlin multi-attraction passes, can save you a lot and make the experience even more worthwhile.

👉 Bottom line: yes, Madame Tussauds London is absolutely worth it, especially if you take the time to explore the immersive zones and try unique experiences like the Spirit of London Ride or the Marvel Universe 4D cinema. It’s fun, original, surprisingly well produced and one of the attractions that creates the best memories in London.

History of Madame Tussauds London

Before you start taking selfies with the stars, it’s worth knowing where Madame Tussauds London actually comes from. Behind this hugely popular wax museum is first and foremost the story of a woman: Marie Tussaud, a French artist whose life was anything but ordinary.

Marie Tussaud: from Parisian workshops to the French Revolution

Marie Grosholtz was born in 1761 in Strasbourg. She learned the art of wax modelling at a young age from Dr. Philippe Curtius in Paris, who created wax portraits of notable figures. Gifted and meticulous, she quickly found herself working among the most influential circles of the time and began sculpting her own portraits.

Her life took a dramatic turn during the French Revolution. She was tasked with creating death masks of famous victims of the Reign of Terror, a grim responsibility that may have saved her life. Arrested and marked for execution, she narrowly escaped the guillotine, but was forced to continue producing wax effigies for the new regime.

From Paris to London: the birth of a wax museum

After these turbulent years, Marie married François Tussaud and eventually moved to Great Britain. For decades, she toured the country exhibiting her wax figures in temporary shows.

It wasn’t until 1835 that she opened her first permanent museum, on Baker Street in London. That’s where the true legacy of Madame Tussauds London began.

The exhibition was immediately popular. Visitors were fascinated by these lifelike figures that allowed them to come face-to-face with kings, queens, writers, criminals, and celebrities of the era.

Moving to Marylebone Road and worldwide expansion

After Marie Tussaud’s death in 1850, the museum continued to grow. In 1884, it moved to its current location on Marylebone Road, just a short walk from Regent’s Park. This is the same iconic site you visit today.

As the decades passed, the concept expanded worldwide. There are now over 25 Madame Tussauds museums across the globe, from New York to Amsterdam, Sydney, Singapore, and Bangkok, each showcasing its own mix of local and international celebrities.

But the London venue remains the original and the most emblematic.

From traditional wax to modern immersive experiences

Of course, techniques have evolved dramatically since the first wax masks of the Revolution. Today, each figure requires months of work, hundreds of measurements, thousands of individually inserted hairs, and an incredible level of detail, from eyelashes to skin texture to the tiniest fabric stitching.

Madame Tussauds is no longer just about wax statues. The attraction now includes immersive sets, 4D cinema experiences, the Spirit of London Ride, and full themed zones such as Marvel and Star Wars, with figures updated regularly to reflect new cultural icons.

The result? A visit to Madame Tussauds London is not just a tour of a wax museum, it’s a journey through nearly two centuries of innovation, artistry, and storytelling dedicated to the world’s most influential personalities.

Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds London

After your visit to Madame Tussauds London, you’re already in the heart of Marylebone, one of the city’s most charming and walkable neighborhoods. From leafy parks to world-class museums and quirky cultural spots, you’ll find plenty of places worth exploring just a few minutes away.

• Regent’s Park (4 min walk) : One of London’s loveliest green spaces, Regent’s Park is ideal for a relaxing stroll after the museum. Expect elegant gardens, peaceful lakes, and plenty of quiet corners where you can unwind away from the city buzz.
• The Sherlock Holmes Museum (5 min walk) : Located on the world-famous 221B Baker Street, this small museum is a treat for fans of the detective. Step inside a Victorian-style interior filled with props, artifacts, and nods to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories.
• The Wallace Collection (12 min walk) : A free museum housed in a stunning London townhouse, the Wallace Collection showcases fine art, historic armor, and elegant 18th-century rooms. It’s a great cultural stop if you enjoy art in a more intimate setting.
• Marylebone High Street (10 min walk) : This stylish street is packed with cafés, boutiques, and bookstores. It’s a perfect place to grab lunch, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy the relaxed village atmosphere in the middle of London.
• ZSL London Zoo (18 min walk through Regent’s Park) : A fun option for families, the London Zoo offers immersive exhibits, interactive areas, and close-up encounters with animals from all over the world. Walking there through Regent’s Park makes the trip even nicer.
• The Beatles Store (5 min walk) : A must-visit for music lovers, this quirky shop on Baker Street is packed with memorabilia, collectibles, and rare items celebrating the Fab Four. It’s small but full of charm and nostalgia.
• Madame Tussauds Gift Shop + Selfie Spots (onsite) : If you want to extend the fun without going far, the large onsite shop offers exclusive merch, photo ops, and themed corners that make for quick, enjoyable extra stops before heading out to explore Marylebone.

FAQ – Madame Tussauds London

Do I need to book my ticket in advance?

Yes, booking online is strongly recommended. Tickets are cheaper than at the door, time slots often sell out during busy periods, and booking ahead guarantees your entry at the time you choose. It’s also the only reliable way to secure the best prices on Merlin multi-attraction tickets.

Can you touch the wax figures?

You can get very close to the figures and pose right next to them for photos. Some figures can be touched gently, but it’s best to be careful and respectful to help preserve them.

Is Madame Tussauds London suitable for children?

Yes, it’s one of London’s most popular attractions for families. Children love the Marvel and Star Wars areas, the Spirit of London Ride, and the animated characters. The only section not recommended for younger visitors is the Chamber of Horrors.

Can I visit with a stroller?

Strollers are allowed inside the attraction, although some areas can feel narrow. For the Spirit of London Ride, strollers must be left at the entrance of the ride, where a staff member will assist you.

Is the museum accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, Madame Tussauds London is wheelchair accessible. However, the number of wheelchair users allowed per time slot is limited for safety reasons, so it’s best to contact the museum in advance to check availability. The Spirit of London Ride is not accessible to wheelchair users.

Are there toilets inside?

Yes, toilets are available at several points along the visitor route. They are clean, accessible, and include baby-changing facilities. Staff members can direct you if needed.

Can you eat or drink inside the museum?

Food is not allowed inside the exhibition areas. Some snack points are available in transition zones, and the 1835 Champagne Bar is the only area where drinks can be consumed. There is no full restaurant inside the museum.

Are there lockers or luggage storage facilities?

There are no lockers or luggage storage facilities inside Madame Tussauds London. Large bags and suitcases are not permitted. Visitors are advised to use a nearby luggage storage service around Baker Street.

Is there a map of Madame Tussauds London?

Yes, an interactive map is available on the official website, showing the eight immersive zones, experiences, and main photo opportunities. Paper maps are not provided on site, as the visit follows a one-way route.