Design Museum

The Design Museum is located in central London, on the southern bank of the River Thames. It is a short walk from the southern end of the Tower Bridge.  It was established in the late nineteen eighties to exhibit and showcase graphic, industrial, fashion and architectural design.  

In size it is quite small, with only two stories plus a water front exhibition area.  It is also one of the few museums in London that is not free.  It receives no government subsidies, but rather operates through charitable donations and admissions fees.  At any given time there can be up to three major exhibitions in the main parts of the museum, covering such eclectic subjects as bottles, photography, and chair design.

There is also a Design Museum Shop, which sells both Museum logo wares and things associated with the museum.  In addition, there is a Museum Cafe, which is open daily, so there’s no need to leave to have a meal and return again.  The Design Museum is also the founder of the controversial “Designer of the Year” prize, which has drawn attention for its large purse and the diversity of its entrants.