Culture & Society · 4 Beginner · September 30, 2026

England's National Museums Stay Free for Everyone

Photo: merve aktas yalman via Pexels

Listen

Vocabulary

museums mjuˈziːəmz noun

buildings where interesting old objects and artworks are displayed for people to see

England has big museums in London and other cities.

government ˈɡʌvərnmənt noun

the group of people who make decisions and laws for a country

The government decided that everyone can visit for free.

tourists ˈtʊrɪsts noun

people who visit a place for vacation or to see interesting things

The government thought about asking tourists to pay money to visit museums.

visitors ˈvɪzɪtərz noun

people who come to a place to see or experience something

The Natural History Museum has over 7 million visitors each year.

economy ɪˈkɑːnəmi noun

the system of money, jobs, and business in a country

Free museums help the economy.

forever fərˈɛvər adverb

for all time; never ending

That is why they will stay free forever.

Article

England has big museums in London and other cities. These museums are very important. Many people visit them every year. The government decided that everyone can visit for free. This includes people from other countries.

Why did they talk about charging?

The government thought about asking tourists to pay money to visit museums. This could give museums more money. Other countries like New Zealand do this. But the government decided this was not a good idea. Free museums are better for everyone.

Museums help the country

Museums bring many visitors to England. These visitors spend money in shops and hotels. The Natural History Museum has over 7 million visitors each year. The British Museum has over 6 million. Free museums help the economy. That is why they will stay free forever.

Discussion Questions

Do you like to visit museums when you travel?
What kind of things do you want to see in museums?
Why are free museums good for a country?
How much money would you pay to enter a museum?
What is the most famous museum near your home?

Open the full interactive lesson with tap-to-hear on every word →

Ready to speak English with real confidence?

Work 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.

Claim Your Free 30-Min Class