Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice
- Crime and justice enthusiasts
- History enthusiasts
- Families with children
What Visitors Say
Small but formidable. I enjoyed the Informative walk through. Decided to visit because it wasn't a "tourist" museum. Not crowded. The £8 price was reasonable. Very interesting history about London's first organized police force. Wish the museum was larger, and maybe expanded to the courthouse so visitors can get the full effect of the importance and balance between the police and the courts.
Interesting small museum. Good to spend an hour in. Some interesting cases there, Oscar Wilde, suffragettes, Kray twins, spent some time in the cells. Aural histories in 'the tank' holding cells. Worth a look!
A small but fantastic museum! The staffs here are all kind and willing to offer assistance. It tells the development of Bow Street Police Station and related Metropolitan history. I enjoy it a lot!
A nice museum that doesn't over load you with information but gives enough insight into its topic to leave a lasting impact. The museum covers the story of London's first Police force, something that people would over look and need to knowmore about. I'd recommend an hour duration for a visit.
Excellent little museum. Visit takes about an hour at most, full of interesting facts about Bow Street Police and nearby Court. Book in advance, Would highly recommend Added bonus is it’s located opposite Royal Opera House and its rooftop bar and restrooms for great vies over Covent Garden.
Highlights
Old Cells & Charge Desk
Atmospheric glimpse of daily policing and notable detainees.From celebrity arrests to routine nights in custody—same corridors.
Cell block
Bow Street Runners
Explains pre-Met origins of organized policing around Covent Garden.From thief-takers to proto-detectives.
Intro displays
Kids’ Investigation Challenge
Keeps younger visitors engaged while adults read.Become a Bow Street ‘runner’ for the day.
At admission desk / throughout
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
It’s small—typical visits are ~30–45 minutes; weigh against paid entry.
Blue Light Card discounts available; friendly staff noted repeatedly.
Similar Museums
Nearby Places
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
1 min 👣
London Transport Museum
2 min 👣
Library and Museum of Freemasonry
2 min 👣
Novello Theatre
2 min 👣
Duchess Theatre
2 min 👣
Gillian Lynne Theatre
3 min 👣
Lyceum Theatre
3 min 👣
Vaudeville Theatre
4 min 👣
Cambridge Theatre
4 min 👣
Courtauld Gallery
4 min 👣